Alright, I've loved the C3 corvettes for a long time (especially the small rear-window and T-Tops). I've finally gotten my first job (after 10 months of looking) and I am starting to think about buying a C3. I just have a few questions, though...

First off, I am going mostly for looks, but I don't want it to run like crap. What's the best/most powerful engine I could put in a C3? And would it be better (performance or maintenance wise) to have a carbeurated engine or a fuel injected? And can both types be turboed.. turbo'd. turbo'ed... however you type that. Also, what model transmission should I get? 5 speed would probably be best.

Next, which body year would be recommended? I don't like the 80's very much. I'm also really looking for the flat rear window and eyelids. If need be I could probably chop together 2 different years to get the window. Also, would it be possible or feasible to modify a big rear end (from a C5 corvette) to fit a C3? (like http://www.ambassadorautosales.com/9...AR%20ANGLE.jpg or http://www.corvetteracebodies.com/CR...ear_fascia.jpg)

Third, what size wheels will fit on said corvette while still being functional?




That's pretty much it. I forsee myself having enough money to spend on this car, since I will be picking up freelance computer repair again (which historically has paid me $50-$75/hour).

 

wtf are eyelids.
why would you want to chop and bastardize a vette,go wreck a toyota.

 

Buy an '05 Z06.

Rip the body off.

Sent it to Lingenfelter or Hennessey for their top-of-the-line package (1000 hp or so...give or take).

Insert pristine C3 body, painted the color of your choice.

Make funeral arrangements before the test drive.

 

If need be I could probably chop together 2 different years to get the window. Also, would it be possible or feasible to modify a big rear end (from a C5 corvette) to fit a C3?

Very Much ...

 

expert01,

You need to buy the corvette black book (find it on amazon.com) and start researching the different years, motors and body styles of the vettes. Here are some guidelines for you: 68-77 have the small rear window, of which 68-72 that window is removable. C3 vettes only come with 4 speed manuals, or 3 speed automatics, however there are many threads on the forum that discuss in great detail swapping those out for a 5 or 6 speed manual. Stock wheels on a C3 vette are 15", however, there have been pics of 20" wheels on these cars.
However, let me warn you right now: The c3 people can be finicky, and have a strong tendency to keeping the car looking relatively stock. By all means, buy the car you want, modify it as you wish, however, if you wish to sell the car, remember that originality in vettes will always be worth more then major customization jobs. We rebuild and drive these cars because we love these cars, specifically how they look, sound and the attention they grab from passing folk.
Good luck with your C3, they are fun to have.

trw

 

 

Wait! I've got the perfect car for you...still available for $15k:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...tem=4547683910


IBTM

 

Eyelids - computers are made for hacking, not vettes

 

Where you live can also be a factor. Certain states (like Kalifornia) require smog testing on '76 and newer Vettes. Arizona has smog testing no matter what. Many smog testing states require the engine has all original smog junk in place. Check your state's laws before buying something that you can't easily modify...

 

I like Texas..if the car is over 24 YO it's exempt from the sniffer test.

 

I dont understand why you guys are putting this guy down .. if he wants to "basterdize it" let him do it ..

I don't think it's basterdizing (unlike that ebay pic, lol). I won't lie and tell you that every vette looks good .. especially the 80's vettes I like some features, and others I hate, and think it could be done right, if he spent the time on researching what looks best, and is feasible, without really make a mess out of the car.

kosta

 

A guy I know is selling His Vette, It pretty much meets what you described. I know some guys might be rough on you from what you said, I know you are new to corvettes and Just need to ask questions and do research into exactly what you want. Here is his site. 1977 vette He is asking $7000 for it. It doesnt have a c-5 back on it though.
Good luck in your findings. Also these cars come with small block chevys so the sky is the limit on HP for them, Its just a matter of how much money you can spend in parts and how much HorsePower your looking for.

 

HMMMM.Dumping that much mula in a C3 with a C5 rear end..Seems there is a big width problem.....dunno......unless you want the Michelin man look.....

 

Yep, same thing in New York, 25 yrs. old or more= no sniff test.

 

Instead of trying to graft a c5 rear on the car, you could always do a chrome bumper rear and not put the chrome bumpers on. Makes the rear look kinda fat. Always reminds me of an acr viper rear.
Something like kid vette's car

 

 

you're 16 aren't you?



sounds like you want a rice burner

 

its all about time and money. if u have alot of time and not a load of money. go pick one up and start tinkering with it. These thing are rarely running and looking perfect if u drive them and enjoy them like they were meant to be used for. I bought mine when i was 15 and just finished it in time for my senior prom (im 18 now). People are gona give u a bunch of s**t just because u are asking things that they take for common knowledge. you will learn by doing and asking questions. Keep at it and if u do get a vette they can be very finicky and fustrating.
The sky is the limit with these old cars.

 

"they can be very finicky and fustrating."

AHHH,but the fun.The only finicky thing for me was the clock....