Fan Friday: Dave Candito’s Pace Car
Here at ClassicAutoStoreOnline.com, we love hearing about the incredible vehicles in our fans’ collections. This week’s Fan Friday spotlight is on Dave Candito and his stunning 1978 Chevrolet Corvette Indy Pace Car, a true gem for cruising around Cape Cod.
A Rare Classic: The 1978 Corvette Indy Pace Car
Dave’s Corvette is not just any C3-generation Vette—it’s one of the rare and iconic 1978 Indy Pace Car replicas. This model was created to commemorate Chevrolet’s honor as the official pace car of the 62nd Indianapolis 500. With its distinctive design and historical significance, this Corvette holds a special place in automotive history.
Only 6,502 of these cars were produced, which roughly equaled one for every Chevrolet dealer at the time. This rarity makes the Indy Pace Car replicas highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Each car came equipped with a striking black and silver two-tone exterior with a red pinstripe, along with “Official Pace Car” decals that could be optionally applied. The mirrored T-tops were another hallmark feature, adding a touch of flair and sophistication.
Power Under the Hood
The 1978 Corvette Indy Pace Car came with two available engine options:
- The L48 350-cubic-inch V8 with 185 horsepower.
- The more robust L82 350-cubic-inch V8 with 220 horsepower.
While these engines may not boast today’s high horsepower figures, they offered plenty of power for spirited cruising, especially when paired with the Corvette’s sleek aerodynamics and agile handling.
Dave’s Story: Cruising the Cape
Dave purchased his Indy Pace Car back in 1986, making this beauty a part of his life for nearly four decades. With only 33,000 miles on the odometer today, it’s clear he’s taken excellent care of it. Last year, he added just 300 miles to its total, enjoying it as a stylish cruiser around Cape Cod. The car’s unique design and timeless appeal make it a head-turner wherever it goes.
Why the Indy Pace Car Matters
The 1978 Corvette Indy Pace Car isn’t just a collectible—it’s a celebration of Chevrolet’s innovation and design excellence. The 1978 model year marked the Corvette’s 25th anniversary, and the pace car replica was part of a broader redesign of the C3 Corvette, which included a fastback rear window for improved aerodynamics and increased cargo space. The car symbolized the Corvette’s enduring legacy as America’s sports car.
Share Your Ride!
Do you have a rare or classic car like Dave’s Corvette? We’d love to feature your story for a future Fan Friday! Whether it’s a daily driver or a pristine show car, your classic deserves a spotlight. Send us your photos and stories, and let’s celebrate the love of classic automobiles together.
Thanks, Dave, for sharing your incredible Corvette with us. We can’t wait to see what adventures it takes you on next!
