For 1987, changes to the Chevrolet C4 Corvette were subtle, with the exception of a very special option package. Chevy’s L98 V-8 engine continued to displace 350 cid, but now used roller rockers. This added an extra 5 hp, raising output to 240 hp. Power still went to the rear wheels through the Doug Nash “4+3” manual transmission, with overdrive for the top three gears.
A new Z52 performance package was also offered. This package provided larger 16” x 9.5” wheels, 13:1 steering ratio, heavy-duty engine cooler and cooling fan, Bilstein shocks, and a larger front sway bar. Z51 and Z52 cars recieved added chassis stiffening, which was originally designed for the convertibles.
If you see any build sheet for a car with the letters B2K, it is a Callaway Corvette twin turbo. Buyers could have their ‘Vette sent to Callaway Engineering in Connecticut right from the factory. There, Callaway would bolt on a pair of turbochargers as well as a host of other performance upgrades. It would leave Callaway with an output increased to 345 hp and fully backed by a GM warranty. Only 123 coupe and 65 convertible examples of the ’87 Callaway Corvette were constructed.
An electronic tire pressure monitoring system was developed, but only installed in 41 cars before being pulled from production, as the system was not yet ready. General Motors produced 36,632 1987 Corvettes, marking about the middle-of-the road for year-over-year C4 production numbers.