New to the forum - thinking about my first c3

[Tau511]

Hey everyone - Always loved corvettes. 66 or 67 would be my favorite car of all time! That being said I also really like C3s and those I can afford.

I have done two fixer uppers - a 63 Dart and a 72 MG (Well to be fair an MG is never done). Never gotten into body work though.

I'm considering a california car - 1980 C3. It has the 305 and that pesky auto CA required. The 305 doesn't bother me at all but is there a possibility of throwing a manual in at some point or are there literally no manuals that can pair easily with that 305?

I have read through a few of the first time buyer threads - all seem pretty standard. Photos show no rust in the scary areas.

I'm going to look at it sometime this week. Anything I really need to be on the look out for? Would any one try to talk me out of the car just because it's a 1980? Guy is asking 7300.

Seller has shown me photos of a couple small cracks in the fiberglass. Is that a cheap fix? Could it be a hint at something else bad?

He advertises it as his daily driver (Not a "Show" car)

I'm looking for something to drive in the rain every now and then when I can't ride the Harley.

 

[6880 Mike]

...I'm considering a california car - 1980 C3. It has the 305 and that pesky auto CA required. The 305 doesn't bother me at all but is there a possibility of throwing a manual in at some point...

Not without throwing money at it. If you want a four speed car, keep looking until you find one.

...Would any one try to talk me out of the car just because it's a 1980?...

What does "just because it's a 1980" have to do with anything? I have an 80 L-82 and love it.

 

[Antz81]

Not without throwing money at it. If you want a four speed car, keep looking until you find one.

I have to agree with you here. Look for the car you want not one you need to change things to make it the one you want.


What does "just because it's a 1980" have to do with anything? I have an 80 L-82 and love it.

For California the 1980 was a 305 rather than a 350. It also was only available with an auto.

 

[bill81vette]

Welcome to CAC!!!!
Enjoy...
That's not a bad price for the '80

 

[dirtypants]

keep looking..and physically look at more..learn first, then buy....unless you find a perfect car right off. THe C3 is costly to "fix up" compared to current values. But...do get one !!

 

[kpic]

Tau511
Welcome to CAC.
No one here will talk you out of any Corvette, if you like it. The reason why is simple, in their own way all Corvettes are special. I'm on my 5th and we love her. Yet, I could take any of the others back in a heartbeat and feel the same way. IMO. each and every Corvette is special and better than all the others; if it is the one you want.

For California the 1980 was a 305 rather than a 350. It also was only available with an auto.

That is sad.. No wonder a bud moved to Nevada.