Which C3 should I buy

[BoeingMan]

I currently own a loaded triple black 6 speed C5 roadster with the z51 suspension package. I bought it new last year and it's been one hell of fun ride since the day I drove it home from the showroom floor.

Prior to this purchase, I never really gave much thought to any of the other corvettes from the past. Never really wanted to own one. Boy what a difference a year makes. I now trully appreciate all of the previous models. I would love to own one of each.

All this being said, I think I may be ready to purchase my next one. I have decided a "chrome bumper" C3 would be the perfect second vette for me at this time.

My question to all is: Which chrome bumper C3's should I be on the look out for and which should I steer clear from. I would prefer another roadster type but the t-toped or coupes would not be be bad either.

Thanks to all in advance.

 

[Crazy Pasquale]

I have always realy liked the idea of a 454ci motor. Any early 70's models would be cool. The two motors are the LS5 & LS6, the LS6 would be hard to find.

Pasquale

 

[71LS5]

Lots of folks will have different opinions, but I would steer clear of any '68s. Too many running changes and one off parts. If you like big blocks I would go for a '69 427 or a '70 454. Both built before the general started to detune the cars for lower octane gas. If you like small blocks an LT-1 is the way to go. Lt-1s were only built in 70-72 and only the 72s came with factory air. But the same problem of reduced horsepower in 71 and 72 on the LT-1s. Whatever you do get smart on them so you do not get burned. If you are not in the NCRS I would recommend joining and get the Technical Manual for the years you are interested in. The membership will be $30 well spent and the cost of the TM will be worth it in heartache avoided.

 

[TWINRAY]

Any '69 or '70 thats clean and not "butchered." Either spend the money up front or be prepared to probably spend more later - not to say spending alot up front gives you any guarantees.

 

[Stallion]

1978!!!!! I know, I'm biased. But you should pick up the latest Vette magazine. It has a whole article on the '78 Vette. After reading this, you'll know why it is the best. And you'll also go out and start looking for one too.

TR

 

[clar2001]

Old enought there is no smog or inspection ,then you can do what ever you like, thats at least 30yrs old here in CA.

 

[Stallion]

He just has to get Historical plates. And then he doesn't need to pass emissions at all.

 

[clar2001]

I looked into Historic plates cheap and doable ,but your only allowed to drive to and from events ,be my luck to be out on a sunday drive and half to explane that one ...........

 

[AUSSIEVETTEMAN]

Drool!

Ahh, chrome bumper big blocks.

I'd even mortgage the 'cheese and kisses' (the wife) for this, although she would enjoy it as much as I would.
I put her in a 88 Roadster the other day, she went all puppy-eyed on me and looks like we will be adding another to the stable in the near future.

Nothing like his and hers Corvettes in Oz!

 

[Flared69]

my preference is the '69.

I just love the shark gills on the side there really isn't much of an aesthetic difference between the chrome bumpers, but of course, the later the model year, the better they tend to get. Though, 31+ years on, they generally will be more of an improvement than factory.

You really need to look around though. I'd get a 427 if I could afford a BB, but I prefer power steering/braking options and my 350/350hp really puts out a fair bit more power than 350 anyway . Need to get it dyno'd for specifics.

It all depends on your preference.

 

[Eric]

If you want a car you can do anything to, still keep it externally stock, spend a little less money than a big block or LT-1, go with a 70-72 L-48. Also, the 70-72 models have been the fastest appreciating models for the last 4 or 5 years running. Throw in a cam, a carb, and an intake and have fun.

 

[BoeingMan]

Thanks to all for responding,

Thanks for the education guys. I will print this entire thread and keep at as a handy reference.

See you all at the Mid America vette show in Effingham IL. next week.

Matt

 

[woobie1966]

i have a 1970 t-top original 454 (390 hp/500 lb ft), 4 spd all i have to say is....awesome. i love this car! it is definitely a money pit (once you get one, upgrades and replacements will eat yuo wallet) but there is nothing like the torque of that big block!! and the looks are great too. around here there are not too many , i havent seen another on the road yet.
im sure the lt-1 handles better, but i wouldnt give it up for anything
mike

 

[atmmac]

I say The 68 its my favorite C3!

 

[steve453]

Id say 68 big block I had one 427 425 all the kinks would be gone by now .
when they were new they had a lot of problems with bonding strips and electrics but that would be all done
it was they only c3 with ignition on dash and a button on the door handle
Mine was a convert with sidepipes . Im now driving a 79 its nice but doesnt have the power of the big blocks.
hell all c3s are nice
goodluck in your choice
steve

 

[Corey 68]

I LOVE my '68, we had 6 '69 Big Block verts through the years and they all have been sold and the '68 is still here 24yrs later. I love the dash mounted ignition and push button doors. I find it gives the car character. You really can't go wrong with any year C3, much less any "chrome bumper" C3.

 

[Alwyn678]

Any of them.............But I prefers verts

 

[gooney0]

Well... I'd narrow it down a bit.

Which do you like:

Egg-crate grills and fender louvers (70-72) or shark gills (68-69)

Round exhaust bezels or square? (68-69 vs 70-72)

The interiors are a little different too.

The '68 has a few different parts than a 69

The 70-72 are fairly similar.

As far as engines go, that all depends... if the car is matching #'s and bone stock, or not. If it is stock then I guess it matters.

Also it will depend how much $$ to want to spend. The big blocks and 'verts fetch a higher price. So do the LT-1s.

My advice would be to shop for:

1) Condidtion (unless you are a rich mechanic)
2) Engine package
3) Options ( they don't all have power steering and brakes!)

and of course a good color.

The "Model Center" at this site is A+ You can find out what the options were for each year and how popular they are.

Also, you may find a car a little different than you were shopping for and really like it. (IE an automatic that is mint)

Enjoy shopping... you can always post questions here!

-Gooney0

-Gooney0

 

[CQRT]

My vote is the 72 LT-1....not quite as cantankerous as the 1970 version... but chrome bumpers on both ends and plenty of GO! If that's past your budget, I think the 69 350/350 with chrome trim in the fender vents is best of breed- especially in Riverside Gold!
I think you'll find it a radical departure from your C-5! I'm envious-- have fun !
CQRT
Scottsdale

 

[CQRT]

The guys I knew with 350/370's were always fussing with adjusting lifters, carburation and feeding it the right fuel - - you're right-- great motor overall, but I've got the 350/330 and it doesn't seem to need much special handling. Then again, my opinion and a quarter will refill your coffee mug!
CQRT