After a phenomenally successful start in 1980, Chevy’s version of the GM X-car saw few changes for 1981. The most notable was the addition of GM’s Computer Command Control (CCC) emission system, something that all the corporations’s cars got that year.
There was, however, a deletion for 1981: the two-door club coupe didn’t sell particularly well, so Chevy dropped that body style. Remaining were the three door and five door hatchbacks.
Back for 1981 was the sporty X-11, but this year it gained some bite to back up the bark. Whereas it was initially little more than an appearance package this year it added a high output (H.O.) version of the 2.8-liter V-6 with, 135 horsepower (25 more than the base 2.8), along with a lower axle ratio for even better off-the-line acceleration. Underneath, the X-11 boasted a stiffer suspension that aided handling with little sacrifice in ride comfort.
As with most Chevrolet’s, 1981’s tougher emissions regulations prompted a slight drop in engine outputs – the H.O. V-6 notwithstanding. The base “Iron Duke” 2.5-liter four lost six horsepower to 84, while the 2.8-liter V-6 went from 115 to 110.
After a phenomenally successful start in 1980, Chevy’s version of the GM X-car saw few changes for 1981. The most notable was the addition of GM’s Computer Command Control (CCC) emission system, something that all the corporations’s cars got that year.
(H.O.) version of the 2.8-liter V-6 with, 135 horsepower (25 more than the base 2.8), along with a lower axle ratio for even better off-the-line acceleration. Underneath, the X-11 boasted a stiffer suspension that aided handling with little sacrifice in ride comfort.
I’d love to have one of those X-11’s! What a rare car. Thanks for the video!