Would You Buy a Non-Numbers-Matching 1967 L89 Corvette?
One of the most desirable Corvette models ever could be yours if you’re OK with fudging the numbers.
Aluminum cylinder heads are the major differentiator between the L89 and L71 versions of the 427ci Big Block. Both were rated at 435 horsepower, featured a trio of two-barrel carburetors, 11:1 compression, and shoved the C2 Corvette down the quarter-mile in the mid-13s.
Although the aluminum cylinder heads stopped short of providing power or acceleration advantages, they were about 75 pounds lighter than the iron heads. This gave the L89 a significant handling advantage with improved weight distribution. L89-equipped Corvettes are quite rare, and comparatively few C2s were equipped with them. As you might imagine, L89s are desirable to collectors and Corvette enthusiasts.
Rarity is only one component of the value equation and usually goes hand-in-hand with originality. However, this car is not as original as most would like. There’s a non-numbers matching engine under the hood. The seller notes the correct L89 lies inside the engine compartment, but it was not originally equipped in that chassis. The question is, do you care?
If you’re looking for the top-level, blue chip collector car, numbers do matter and you should hold out for the absolute best. If you’re looking for a car that will occasionally be driven to car shows or to Corvette club events, then perhaps you don’t mind a non-original engine in order to save a few extra bucks.
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This car is priced at $115,000, which is more or less an average price for such a car. Granted, this C2 is fresh from a frame-off restoration, so if the work is done as well as the ad says, it could be easily worth the asking price.
From the ad:
- 1967 Corvette Coupe 427/435-HP L89
- Complete frame-off restoration
- 427/435-HP L89 with aluminum heads
- Tremec 5-speed, 3:36 gears
- Non-matching numbers
- Vintage air conditioning
- Power steering
- Power windows
- Telescoping steering column
- All new windows
- Excellent Ermine White paint with laser-straight body
- Excellent-handling car
- Price $115,000 or best offer
- Will accept high-quality vehicle as partial trade
- Jay Leno wishes he owned this Corvette
source [Los Angeles Craigslist]
