My wife has been bitten by the corvette bug now and wants to add another one to our stable that will qualify as hers. She wants to keep it long term (10 yrs plus) so she has something that qualifies as an investment she can have fun with. I am not a C3 expert so I was looking for some input. Here is what is important.
It has to qualify as an occasional driver
It doesnt have to be a high hp car
I told her it cant be a major project I have several already
It has to be automatic
I has to be blue. LOL
She has about $15K to spend
She would really like a vert but I am not sure I can get a real nice one for that anymore
I have been looking at real nice 82s because of the last year, comfort level, affordable price and low production numbers.
I think it is real important she get something clean, reliable and unmolested so she doesnt get frustrated with it. Because of this the later cars are interesting to me because it seems she could get the nicest example for what she wants to spend.
She is not looking at this to retire on, just something to keep, drive, and have it go up in value rather than down when she gets rid of it.
I guess I am looking for advice on what would be easy for her to drive, has some investment potential, and I wouldnt have to spend every weekend restoring it for the cash available.
Thanks
Roy

 

Roy,

I would suggest a 1971 ZQ3 coupe. Last and first for a lot of unique features. First year that the automatic shift console panel was lighted to indicate which gear you were in, especially at night. Last year of the fiberoptic monitoring panel, to be able to view that all running, tail, brake, signal & headlamps are functioning. Coupe allows rear window removal, top removal all at once or combo thereof. First year that engines will run on low lead, unleaded fuels without detonating. Last year for the most interior appointments, such as metal trim on pedals, chrome plate on fresh air dash and **** controls. Last year of console data plate displaying full information on engine details ( a neat unique item that owners find amusing). Styling, that just can't be beat, great sex appeal and sought after by most Corvette enthusiast. Can be found in resonably good condition in your price range, and Mulsanne Blue is an incredible color!

 

1980 would be my choice. No computer, lots of refinements. Great handling, fairly easy for DIY'ers to work on. Generally loaded with options. You can get a really nice one for less than $15k, which will leave you some room for personal touches we all seem to want. Blue not offered in '80, but 2 blues were available in '81. The '81 has a crude computer controlled carb., not a big deal. G/L

 

Just my .02 cents. I wouldn't buy any of these cars as an investment unless you plan for it to be a garage queen. Buy it to have fun!!

 

The '82 is a good choice, you can get a nice one for that money, it is the best one for cruising, very comfortable, good mileage. Make sure you get one that's running nice. As long as the TB's are tuned it runs great. I love mine. I've driven it 8 hours staight a number of times and I loved it. Don't worry about the crossfire injection, as long as it's set up it will be just fine. Make sure you test drive it first and if the injectors are screwed up you'll know it. Good luck with the hunt

 

Well i haven't owned a vette since 1964, but looking, i like the older ones but looking in the 15k range too, my fav is a 78 because of the back window, seats and anniversary model, second choice 79 even though high back seats.. 80 up too much fairing for me and like them seats even less.. top choice? clean low miles 78 all silver/black interior L-82 4 speed

 

Go to this site and enter your parameters: http://ww2.collectorcartraderonline.com/search.php

Good luck.