Mark Otnes

Just a shot in the dark, really...

But I'd thought I'd ask if anyone out there has my old Corvette...my dream...my baby! I traded it back in '86 for a AAR Cuda and have missed it ever since.

Here are the specs as I know them (of course, no VIN):

1971, red/red interior, 454/365, 4-speed, tilt/tele, power windows, LUGGAGE RACK, remov. rear window.

I know, I know...that's not a lot to go on. But the red/red combo seems to be pretty rare, add to that the 454/365 AND the luggage rack...maybe someone knows where this car is today.

I bought and titled it in Dallas, TX about 1982, traded it to a muscle car dealership about 1985. That's all I have info-wise.

I don't know the VIN, the dealer, the previous owner or my license plate at the time. I already tried my insurance company and they didn't have records on me for that time.

Any ideas or will I never see my "Red Rocket" again?

Thanks,

Mark

Alan 71

Hi Mark,
Since you just owned it for 3 years perhaps finding one just like it will fill the void you're feeling.
I'd think that would be quite possible!
Regards,
Alan

PacecarHI

Have Faith and keeping Asking and Searching...

I found out the location of a '71 Big Block that I drove in high school, over 30 years ago.
It started out in Hawaii, moved to Washington and ended up in Pennsylvania .

Someone will know about it...

Easy Mike

You may never find it without the VIN. I would keep hunting for old paperwork which might have the VIN listed.

Faster Rat

Try the C3 Registry. This one is in Texas........

http://www.c3registry.org/index.php?...e&car_id=14862

Alan 71

Hi,
Mike's point about the VIN is why I posted what I did.
I'm not sure how you even recognize a car you had 25 years ago without the VIN.
I'll repeat.... I you're looking for a car to fit pleasant memory.
Regards,
Alan

BlackbirdZ07

I just saw this one posted on Craigslist in Albuquerque:

http://albuquerque.craigslist.org/ctd/3188146114.html

No luggage rack (could have been removed) but otherwise it fits the description. You never know! Good luck!

EDIT: This one is a convertible. "Removable rear window" probably means coupe, and if that's the case, this isn't it.

Stingray-Jer

I still feel the same way about my ole Pewter 72. It was pretty much all original and a beauty. Nothing fancy, auto and black vinyl interior, but it was my first Vette. I guess we never forget our first love.

myoriginal77

Try looking for the VIN in these spots;


Bank loan records,

Check your DMV, call their title section, ask if there is a "car guy" that works in the office. If you can go in person, even better.

It might be archived on microfilm, you might have to fill out a Freedom of Information Act form.

Look through all your drawers for a scrap of paperwork, you never know where it will turn up.

Even with the VIN it's not easy, it took me about 4 years. I wrote to the DMV's in all 50 states.

Don't give up,

Frank

marshal135

Hello,
here's how I would go.
You traded a BB 71 for an AAR Cuda so you got the better of the deal.
Take the cuda to mecum auction and sell it.
Based on the sales lately of Mopar madness you could then get the corvette of your dreams or your half way there to an L-88.
Marshal

Mark Otnes

Thanks. I just have a very special place in my heart for that specific car. I'll keep looking for now.

Mark Otnes

Thanks for your encouragement. I'd know it if I found it!

Mark Otnes

Unfortnately, no paperwork remains. When I traded it for the AAR Cuda, I got all caught up in Mopar-mania. All the vette stuff went to the dealer. ARGH!

Mark Otnes

WOW! Thanks. That's the greatest lead I've found. Unfortunately, after searching all the registered 71s, I didn't find mine. But I'll keep an eye on that page. Thanks again!
Mark

Mark Otnes

You know the luggage area behind the seats? I laid on my back and signed the fiberglass on the underside in there. THAT'S how I'll know for sure. It's in a spot that would never be painted over or even looked at normally.

Mark Otnes

Good eye! Thanks. But you're right. That's a convertible, so it's not it. Good looking car though. Thanks again, "eagle eye!"
Mark

Mark Otnes

Thanks Frank, I haven't given up. As to your suggestions, I did try my insurance company, no go. But your idea that it "might be archived on microfilm" gives me some hope. Next time I'm back down in Texas, I'll see if I can pay an "exciting" visit to the DMV. HA. Thanks again.
Mark

Mark Otnes

Good idea except for I sold the Cuda after I go married to pay for child and family expenses. Yawn. HA
Now, as I'm entering the "empty nester" era, I'm looking around again for the Red Rocket.
I WISH I had kept that Cuda. The prices they pull in now are ridiculous!

Easy Mike

None of your personal records of the car (insurance, title, maintenance records, tax receipts, license receipts, etc) should have gone to the dealer. Any of those could have the VIN or a partial VIN.

Raphiki

I sold my '69 when I got married - should have kept the car and gotten rid of the wife!