Newbie Question part Deux - Buying Advise

[Skip - Dallas]

Well, I've been giving it some more thought and I'm wondering if I should make a few changes... Maybe someone here can help either validate or rebuke my thought process...

I'm looking for a '68 - '72 convertible to use as a daily driver in TX. Perfect originality is not important to me, but I do want to keep the "character" of the vehicle intact. I don't plan on ever selling this car (just like I'll never sell my IH Scout ).

Color really isn't an issue, because I figured that can be changed. I really want Silver on Black.

Manual transmission is a MUST. But now I wondering if I should be looking at autos as well. I want a five or six speed anyway, so a transmission swap would happen regardless. Is it much more difficult to add the clutch and assembly?

I've also only been looking at small blocks. Acquisition cost is less, but I also figured the car would handle better, run cooler, more reliable, etc... Now I'm wondering if I should consider Big Blocks. Are there pros or cons to big block, other than goes faster?

A/C is an ABSOLUTE must. I've only been looking at Vettes with factory A/C. I figure I'll probably have to replace most of the system with new updated parts anyway for MAXIMUM cooling. Should I consider a car without A/C and just add the system?

Power steering is another must. But now I'm thinking that wouldn't be hard to add either. Same with power brakes, as I'll probably go with hydroboost.

I guess what I'm trying to get to is, should I wait for the perfect car, or should I buy one that's close, knowing I'll need to add some components. I've been looking for a few weeks now with no luck. Should I try to find some of that stuff people call patience? Or, could I look for a years trying to find the perfect car at the perfect price?

Thanks ALL!!!

 

[Bob Chadwick]

If you want a manual, you should buy a manual. I understand that the conversion from automatic to manual can be difficult, particularly as it relates to adding the clutch pedal.

As to A/C there is a post here which addresses various people's opinions on the issue. The stock a/c on the C3's does not blow all that well and even with extremely cold air you may have a problem with volume unless you replace the stock fan with a higher volume unit. Others simply put a Vintage Air aftermarket unit in the car and have voiced good results.

Good luck with your choice and welcome to the CAC.

Bob

 

[page62]

A '68-'72 convertible -- with A/C to boot -- as a daily driver? You'd better buy some 55-gallon drums of patience, my friend!

Buy the best car you can afford. Otherwise you'll be throwing buckets of money at the thing.

Personally, I'd choose a small block given your criteria. They handle better because of the reduced weight and less amounts of rip-snorting torque.

Just as a final note, the '78-'82 Vettes make better daily drivers. More comfortable ride, better A/C...much more "modern" overall. But of course, no convertibles, either!

Good luck!

 

[matchframe]

Auto-Manual Conversion

It can be done! If you want to go with originality, the hard part is the clutch bracket. There will have to be a bracket welded to the frame. Another option is to go with a hydralic clutch. If you do this, you will not need the bracket. Also with a hydralic clutch, the pedal will not require as much pressure to engage. One of the Administrators here, Chris (69MyWay) has done this to his '69 Vette. If this is something you might be interested in, contact Chris for all the details on what would be required. keep us updated!

Bill

 

[c4ever]

I agree with Page on this one. I guess it depends on what you require out of a daily driver. You've got to remember the technology back in the 70's wasn't exactly rocket science and it can be frustrating, depending on a vehicle of this age (30 years+)day in and day out. I gotta admit you've chosen the best years (69 is my favorite) but as Page says the later C3's would be my pick for a daily driver. IMHO
Good luck in the hunt.

Carlo

 

[Michel73]

If you get the chance don't pass on looking at 73's - they are cool too!!! Good luck.