C3-Curious
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 208
Likes: 0
From: Mesa, AZ, USA
I'm loving the info. Thanks!
The first thing I need to do is narrow down my "want" list. In other words, I need to stop looking at the entire C3 generation and figure out which slice of it I like best.
So far, the cars that really grab me are the chrome bumper ones, 68-72. Within that group, it's probably the latter model years I like best. I tend to think the 68-69 cars look cleanest (less fussy detailing), but as with any generation change, the engineers tended to weed out the bugs in successive model years.
So, let's say I'm looking at 71s or 72s. Probably small-blocks, because they're more affordable (although I wouldn't turn down a cherry, inexpensive convertible big block of some looney-tune decided to part with it for cheap!). I love the convertibles, but a right-priced coupe would do.
As for transmission, I like to row it myself. Speaking of which, what are those old four-speeds like? What's the clutch action like? I've owned, in succession, a '94 Z28 six-speed, an '01 Corvette six-speed and an '05 GTO six-speed. What sort of culture shock am I in for?
The first thing I need to do is narrow down my "want" list. In other words, I need to stop looking at the entire C3 generation and figure out which slice of it I like best.
So far, the cars that really grab me are the chrome bumper ones, 68-72. Within that group, it's probably the latter model years I like best. I tend to think the 68-69 cars look cleanest (less fussy detailing), but as with any generation change, the engineers tended to weed out the bugs in successive model years.
So, let's say I'm looking at 71s or 72s. Probably small-blocks, because they're more affordable (although I wouldn't turn down a cherry, inexpensive convertible big block of some looney-tune decided to part with it for cheap!). I love the convertibles, but a right-priced coupe would do.
As for transmission, I like to row it myself. Speaking of which, what are those old four-speeds like? What's the clutch action like? I've owned, in succession, a '94 Z28 six-speed, an '01 Corvette six-speed and an '05 GTO six-speed. What sort of culture shock am I in for?
Drifting
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 1,425
Likes: 0
From: Seattle Wash.
Just to clarify about CnV, they not only get their fare share of gripes, I would take it a step further and say that in some cases, they sell cares that are completely mis-represented. There are some horror stories from CF members who have purchased cars from them. BTW, any one can say the give their cars a "safety check" and a "thorough going over", but unless the dealership lets you watch, or lets you take the car yourself to have it looked at, you will never know if they did what they say they will do or not. My advice is for you to look at what they have, but when it comes time to actually purchase a car, steer clear of them at all costs. JMHO. I hope when the time comes for you to buy the C3 of your dreams, that it is a really great car. Good luck!
Race Director
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 13,196
Likes: 99
From: West Chester OH
2020 C6 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
Cruise-In IX Veteran
St. Jude Donor '08 thru '13
I'm loving the info. Thanks!
So far, the cars that really grab me are the chrome bumper ones, 68-72. Within that group, it's probably the latter model years I like best. I tend to think the 68-69 cars look cleanest (less fussy detailing), but as with any generation change, the engineers tended to weed out the bugs in successive model years.
As for transmission, I like to row it myself. Speaking of which, what are those old four-speeds like? What's the clutch action like? I've owned, in succession, a '94 Z28 six-speed, an '01 Corvette six-speed and an '05 GTO six-speed. What sort of culture shock am I in for?
So far, the cars that really grab me are the chrome bumper ones, 68-72. Within that group, it's probably the latter model years I like best. I tend to think the 68-69 cars look cleanest (less fussy detailing), but as with any generation change, the engineers tended to weed out the bugs in successive model years.
As for transmission, I like to row it myself. Speaking of which, what are those old four-speeds like? What's the clutch action like? I've owned, in succession, a '94 Z28 six-speed, an '01 Corvette six-speed and an '05 GTO six-speed. What sort of culture shock am I in for?
Don't pass up on early sharks, in 40 years most of the bugs should have been taken care of! There's also a lot of time passed for 70-72 cars to develop a lot of bugs.
As far as rowing, the gearbox in mine is very smooth and the clutch isn't as heavy as you'd think. The Mrs. even commented that it was much lighter than she expected.
Have you checked the for sale section here? That's where I found mine, you might have to drive a couple hundred (or even more) miles, but I've found most people selling here are very open and honest about their cars.
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 37,637
Likes: 3,118
From: Crossville TN
Regardless of C3 year, big blocks, 4-speeds, and verts. bring significantly higher $$$, so be prepared to spend more [but they will hold value]. '68-69s are more desirable to the "purists", but they have their design idiosyncracies...and they don't have flares behind the tires to keep the rock nicks away. '70s were the last to have high-powered engines; engine compr. ratios dropped in '71, as did horsepower. '72s, IMO, are a pretty good buy. The engine horsepower ratings dropped, but the actual wheel horsepower didn't. That's because GM started rating HP in "brake HP units", rather than "engine output HP units" in 1972. So, the best of all worlds [unless you really have a strong preference otherwise] is a '72 454ci, 4-speed, conv. [with working A/C, if you have hot weather]. Anyway, that's some thoughts to consider. Have fun deciding what you want...don't rush into a hasty decision. Then HAVE REAL FUN when you buy your "dream" car.
7T1vette
7T1vette
