For all those with a C2 for sale - you are probably wanting to talk with me as I don't know what to ask yet.

There are so many great cars out there (yes, even besides a vette) - but I'm pretty sure I'm landing on the mid-year vette. Can't beat the styling and tradition of this car. Just got back from Effingham, IL at the mid-america fun fest. Love all the new cars that were there, but nothing beats the mid-year in my opinion. I'm in the market, now I have to find the right one. Went to the seminar on how to purchase a used vette - that was enough to let me know I have no idea what I'm doing, but a good start to start asking questions.

It needs to be something I can drive - looking at it in the garage doesn't do much for me. Will be a weekend toy when it isn't raining, not a daily driver.

Here is my first shot at the market:

<$30k - probably stay away unless willing to take on a major project

$30k - $35k: Probably not a numbers matching car, might need paint - but still has potential to be a pretty good car.

$35k-$40k: Could be a numbers matching, could probably use paint or other work to get it in a better condition. Probably not a car to take the car show and win first prize.

$40k-$55k: Very solid car and most likely a numbers matching, paint probably in pretty good condition, probably doesn't need much unless it is a rare option car. Frame on restoration.

$55k -$75k: Great paint and condition - starting to move out of the driver range. Probably a frame off restoration.

$75k: Well beyond my budget, so those with these cars - congrats to you - I hope to be there someday.

Am I even close? Help me out here - I'm willing to learn from the experts!

 

Looks pretty good to me... Though the 30-40k has some overlap.

 

Makes sense - what gets a mid-year over the $40k mark? I'm sure there is more than one reason, especially with rare options and such. Have to assume it is a rust free car at this point in the price range. Is it paint quality along with originallity? I want to get a car that is going to maintain the value, which should not be a problem for a mid-year bought right. As I'm just starting to do my homework and tracking different cars, any features that should I should track along with year, engine, trans would be appreciated. It is going to be a fun process......

 

condition and options will set the value/price. You may want to ask a mod to move this thread to the general section for a better response.

 

IMHO
The price goes up with originality and restoration quality, color and options you would like are a plus, as well as travel to go audition and verify. Would you want buy it and ship it cross country or drive it across?
Having noted the effect of originality on pricing, the current 'resto-mod' (a term which I personally abhor, its either restored or its modded) cars are commanding some serious $$$$.

What will be you end goal with the C2? Full restoration, modding, driving to the cruises? Don't believe that you should look at it as an investment, except as an investment in fun.

A couple of final thoughts on pricing/buying
Usually, the more you spend up front, the less you should have to spend to get it where you want it. Talk to owners in person, ask them to take you for a drive.

By the way, where are you located? and how much can you afford for your C2?

One final thought, ENJOY the living crap out of the one you buy and become it's latest caretaker.
again just IMHO

Don

 

Brian I sent you pm did you receive it

Mike

 

Take a look at the 1965 roadster in North Little Rock Ar. On bay. Matching numbers car converted to tune port injection and still has the original parts that came off of the car. Paint is very shiny and has a couple of small blemishes. This car fits into your 35k to 40k range. Tons of stuff done to the car and road ready. Give the guy a call for a better description. It is for sale locally.

 

This '65 coupe is outstanding!

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c1s-...965-coupe.html

 

Well, that is pretty right on, but you either want one of three. Frame off restored (numbers born with matching and that can be tough to prove), completely original or show quality repaint numbers matching....mechanicals in progress. Have owned a number of original, zinged on my first 2, seen "original numbers matching....with numbers somehow over decked block swirls, and admired beautiful restorations with wonderfully documented photos of before and after that leave no room for doubt. I had a 100% original one once...and some dope decked my block without asking on the rebuild........and before I could jump out the window he told me he would just borrow his friends stamping set. Yikes! Just be cautious because representable correct C2's are a lot of $$$. You can get reliable running matching number C2's in the $30's if you are patient. That is the key. Best wishes on your search. Believe me, they are out there and you can tell what is right and what is not.

 

There is a red '64 roadster L76 that is for sale on the Louisville craigslist that is "advertised as numbers matching" and has been there for some time. Original asking price I think was 42,500. Now at $35,500. Everyone will tell you that 64's aren't worth as much, but that is nonsense to me. It is just like a '65 L76 with a one-year hood, better interior imho and side indentions instead of gills. You can always convert to discs. I have not personally seen the car or know the owner. You may want to take a look...