Hi all,

Ive been casually researching Corvettes for about a year now with a purchase in mind, and started getting serious about it last week.

Id like some opinions on this 68.

Im going to look at it today.

Before you post your opinions, I should tell you I'm not looking for a car that will win some awards. Matching numbers, 100% correct interior/paint color isnt a big issue to me (although its always a plus). Im not a mechanic, so I dont know a whole lot about working on cars. I usually have to fake my way through half a conversation when someone tells me about engines and stuff.

Im looking for a reliable (as reliable as these old cars can be) and reasonably well-looking Vette. Something to cruise around in on a weekend and take my 7 year-old out driving with. Id like to be able to turn some heads and still feel confident the car wont die on me at any given moment. Collectability is only a minor concern, although I may make efforts to further restore/improve it in the future when I get money and some skill.

I spoke with the guy yesterday and he said he would let it go for $16,000. The ad was posted in July of 2005. He also says the $17,000 is a lower price and its firm. But then he lowered it again on the phone. So Im wondering if I should be skeptical as to why he cant get rid of the car.

Advice?

 

The pictures look pretty darn good. If it was me I would ask to take the car to a Corvette mechanic and pay for them to look it over and give you a written report.
An experienced Vette guy will know exactly what to look for and be able to give you an idea on what repairs will run should he find any problems.

Kona

 

It looks good in the photos. It does not have tilt/tele steering column (only tele was available in '68---and this one is not tele). Agree with previous post: find someone who knows these cars and pay for a complete inspection. G.

 

Actually, the guy is a mechanic. He works for Tony's Corvette Shop in MD. I dont know if anyone here has heard of them. Ive seen that site mentioned elsewhere and they came off as pretty reputable.

The other issue with the car is my wife doesnt want me to spend a lot. Actually, she doesnt want me to get one at all... But too bad.

There is a 74 in Manassas VA I may look at tomorrow. They are asking 12k. So that makes her happy. Im willing to spend the extra money for a more "valuable/coveted" Corvette though. Im just terrified at being ripped off because Im a n00b at the mechanical side of cars, especially older ones.

 

I'm sure that the guy is probably a straight up guy, but mechanic or not he is the "Seller" and he "WANTS" to sell his car. Come up with your own conclusions.
Third party inspection the only way to go just my opinion.

Kona

 

Kona is right. Great looking car in the pics. I'd sure love to have it.

 

I used to live in Manassas, VA and was a member of the Northern Virginia Corvette Club. You can trust Tony. In case you didn't notice, when you go to their website, they are listed as one of the top ten Corvette shops by Vette Magazine. I have met him and he is a "straight shooter", but you should try to negotiate the price down some as the car doesn't have a numbers matching engine.

 

I live in Annapolis MD ( not far from Gaithersburg) and although I go to the shore to get my work done I know a few that have gone to Tonys and they are VERY honest and reliable. I plan on talking to them about doing my body and paint work. I would feel more confident in purchase a car from someone that works there any anywhere else.... but being an owner of a 74 BB; $12k is a good price.

 

Thanks guys.

The seller is not Tony, but an employee. The car is sitting at Tony's Garage though. So Im assuming the "we" in the ad regarding the work done is Tony's people.

Thanx for the help.

 

Well, I wont be buying the 68. The lack of a tele steering column wont work, because the steering wheel grinds into my leg when I press the clutch. That, and the lack of power steering made it even more bothersome if I down-shifted while turning.

Guess Im off to VA tomorrow. Here is the link to the ad. The pix were taken with a cell phone so they dont show much. Is there anything I should look for or ask about?

I have spoken to the owner a few times. It hasnt been driven for some time. Life has gotten in the way. He says he's selling it because they are looking to get another house. He did say it won 2nd place in a "people's choice" awards thing at a Corvette club show about 8 years ago.

 

Enjoy the search. Be picky. The right car for you will appear.

 

Take your time don't jump in to buying a problem Vette.