Chevrolet Red (83 (1980)) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This is the quintessential sports car color. In 1980, this shade defined the late C3 Corvette era, giving that long-nosed body a look that was aggressive even when parked. Because your car has likely spent the last few decades enjoying the sun, the original finish might have shifted slightly from its factory glow. Red is a high-energy pigment that loves to soak up UV rays, which means your existing paint might be a hair lighter than what is in your container. When you apply this color, you are restoring that deep, primary punch that made the 1980 models stand out in a decade of browns and tans.

Technical Details

You are working with a solid finish, which is actually a blessing for a DIY project. Unlike modern metallics that require you to worry about how the tiny flakes are standing up, this color relies entirely on pure pigment density. The trade-off is that solid reds are very honest; they do not hide scratches or poor sanding underneath a layer of glitter. Before you spray or dab Chevrolet Red (check for code 83 (1980)), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. The heavy red pigments tend to settle at the bottom of the container, and if they aren't fully mixed, your first few strokes will look thin or translucent.

Best Practices

To verify your match, look for the trim tag on the driver's side door hinge pillar, usually located near the upper hinge. It will clearly list your paint code. Before you begin the actual repair in your garage or a patch of shade, test the color on the included card to see how it compares to your car's current state. When applying, focus on thin, even layers rather than trying to hide the damage in one go. Keep the container moving to avoid any buildup, and give the paint plenty of drying time between applications. This patience prevents the red from "sagging" and ensures the new paint sits level with the old finish.