Can you help me?
Racer
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 258
Likes: 0
From: TN
If the 69 - 75 convertibles each appeal to you equally, the 74 or 75's with rubber bumpers are less expensive. They also benefit from a couple more years of "tweaking" the design.
If you like the chrome years, you'll probably pay a bit more on average, although there is a wide range of pricing. They will probably enjoy better resale as well due to their popularity.
Small blocks also are probably easier and cheaper to drive and maintain than big-blocks.
You can see I chose the 69. Twice. Just look at SEVERAL before you buy; there is a lot of junk out there. Good luck and enjoy.
If you like the chrome years, you'll probably pay a bit more on average, although there is a wide range of pricing. They will probably enjoy better resale as well due to their popularity.
Small blocks also are probably easier and cheaper to drive and maintain than big-blocks.
You can see I chose the 69. Twice. Just look at SEVERAL before you buy; there is a lot of junk out there. Good luck and enjoy.
Race Director
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 16,528
Likes: 53
From: Dayton, Ohio
Darn you had to say convertible.T-Tops are pretty nice.I would have said 78 or 79 would make a good first Corvette in my opinion.I work on a lot of vettes and for some reason those 2 years seem to be the least troublesome.I like the seats in the 79 but dont care much for the low rear end.Good Luck
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 152
Likes: 0
Darn you had to say convertible.T-Tops are pretty nice.I would have said 78 or 79 would make a good first Corvette in my opinion.I work on a lot of vettes and for some reason those 2 years seem to be the least troublesome.I like the seats in the 79 but dont care much for the low rear end.Good Luck
I am quite sure I want to be pre 1975. I do appreciate the input.Thanks.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 152
Likes: 0
If the 69 - 75 convertibles each appeal to you equally, the 74 or 75's with rubber bumpers are less expensive. They also benefit from a couple more years of "tweaking" the design.
If you like the chrome years, you'll probably pay a bit more on average, although there is a wide range of pricing. They will probably enjoy better resale as well due to their popularity.
Small blocks also are probably easier and cheaper to drive and maintain than big-blocks.
You can see I chose the 69. Twice. Just look at SEVERAL before you buy; there is a lot of junk out there. Good luck and enjoy.
If you like the chrome years, you'll probably pay a bit more on average, although there is a wide range of pricing. They will probably enjoy better resale as well due to their popularity.
Small blocks also are probably easier and cheaper to drive and maintain than big-blocks.
You can see I chose the 69. Twice. Just look at SEVERAL before you buy; there is a lot of junk out there. Good luck and enjoy.
Drifting
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 1,909
Likes: 6
From: Lake Arrowhead - Georgia > 72 Base Coupe & 74 BB Roadster
A BB Vette will be a bit heavier up front in the turns and braking, EVEN with the stiffer factory springs. BUT worth it considering the extra low end torque IF you are comparing stock motors. The long term re-sale on any BB car will be a better "investment" .... not that I have ever made a dime on a car. Just like others have said....look at more than one....there is a lot of junk for sale .... ask questions .... don't let your emotions buy a car!
Safety Car
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 4,206
Likes: 8
From: Belmar NJ
Have the car inspected by someone who knows what they're looking at. There are alot of pretty cars for sale (especially from dealers) that once you get past the shinny paint job are a money pit just to keep running. Best 500-1000 you can spend (that would be for a professional service, forum members might do it for less or even free. Pro services usually offer a warentee if they miss something major). /:\
Burning Brakes
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 832
Likes: 0
From: Sarasota Florida
whatever c3 you decide to get, you will NOT regret it. it will be the best purchase you will ever make
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 6,247
Likes: 471
From: Glen Allen, VA
Sounds like you are kind of ready to jump in a buy one. I'd say slow down some, take your time, look at LOTS of C3's. Make sure you get a really good idea of what you want. Drive as many as you can to get a feel for how they ride. 68 and 69 are generally going to be the most expensive of the convertibles, followed by 70-73 then 74 and 75 being the least. I have a t top 79, have ridden in many convertibles and I find that having my t tops out really isn't any differnt than a convertible, so I would suggest a driving some t top cars also just to see what you think.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 152
Likes: 0
So these cars are front heavy regardless? Good to know. Thanks.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 152
Likes: 0
Sounds like you are kind of ready to jump in a buy one. I'd say slow down some, take your time, look at LOTS of C3's. Make sure you get a really good idea of what you want. Drive as many as you can to get a feel for how they ride. 68 and 69 are generally going to be the most expensive of the convertibles, followed by 70-73 then 74 and 75 being the least. I have a t top 79, have ridden in many convertibles and I find that having my t tops out really isn't any differnt than a convertible, so I would suggest a driving some t top cars also just to see what you think.
I have driven a t-top car before, just not a Corvette. Just not the same as a real sports car. Maybe it is just me.
Race Director
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 16,528
Likes: 53
From: Dayton, Ohio
Drive both.I prefere the T-top in a C3 for the more solid feel.Verts. can be a lttle jouncy.The T is a comprimise but its still pretty much an open feel.Some of the C3s had a removable rear window which might help. I think thats pre 72.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 2,540
Likes: 1
From: Pineville Kentucky
CI 6-8-9 Veteran
Bought my vettes right here on the forum. My advice is to lurk around awhile, get your $$ together, truck/trailer and start "road tripping" on the weekend. Looking and meeting fellow enthusiasts (NUTS) was a great part of the process.
IMHO the best "deals" will be later this year when the snow starts blowing. BUT, if you want one now.........go and get it NOW! Life is too short to waste.
The vert. vs coupe debate is very personal. (after buying a coupe, I would never have another vert.) The 72 and back coupe has a removable rear window and T-tops so it is dang near a vert.
The BB vs SB debate is more to do about $$$$. A #'s BB is gonna cost more BUT will bring more later so it is not a big deal just more to "get in". The big difference in the BB and SB is the sound (BB's do rumble) the heat (BB's can be an oven) and the power (BB's are VERY torquey) Find yourself a 73 BB 4 speed with A/C in GOOD shape and your golden.(see avatar)
IMHO the best "deals" will be later this year when the snow starts blowing. BUT, if you want one now.........go and get it NOW! Life is too short to waste.
The vert. vs coupe debate is very personal. (after buying a coupe, I would never have another vert.) The 72 and back coupe has a removable rear window and T-tops so it is dang near a vert.
The BB vs SB debate is more to do about $$$$. A #'s BB is gonna cost more BUT will bring more later so it is not a big deal just more to "get in". The big difference in the BB and SB is the sound (BB's do rumble) the heat (BB's can be an oven) and the power (BB's are VERY torquey) Find yourself a 73 BB 4 speed with A/C in GOOD shape and your golden.(see avatar)
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 152
Likes: 0
I will drive both to compare. I just don't think a coupe with a hole in the roof equates to a roadster.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 152
Likes: 0
Bought my vettes right here on the forum. My advice is to lurk around awhile, get your $$ together, truck/trailer and start "road tripping" on the weekend. Looking and meeting fellow enthusiasts (NUTS) was a great part of the process.
IMHO the best "deals" will be later this year when the snow starts blowing. BUT, if you want one now.........go and get it NOW! Life is too short to waste.
The vert. vs coupe debate is very personal. (after buying a coupe, I would never have another vert.) The 72 and back coupe has a removable rear window and T-tops so it is dang near a vert.
The BB vs SB debate is more to do about $$$$. A #'s BB is gonna cost more BUT will bring more later so it is not a big deal just more to "get in". The big difference in the BB and SB is the sound (BB's do rumble) the heat (BB's can be an oven) and the power (BB's are VERY torquey) Find yourself a 73 BB 4 speed with A/C in GOOD shape and your golden.(see avatar)
IMHO the best "deals" will be later this year when the snow starts blowing. BUT, if you want one now.........go and get it NOW! Life is too short to waste.
The vert. vs coupe debate is very personal. (after buying a coupe, I would never have another vert.) The 72 and back coupe has a removable rear window and T-tops so it is dang near a vert.
The BB vs SB debate is more to do about $$$$. A #'s BB is gonna cost more BUT will bring more later so it is not a big deal just more to "get in". The big difference in the BB and SB is the sound (BB's do rumble) the heat (BB's can be an oven) and the power (BB's are VERY torquey) Find yourself a 73 BB 4 speed with A/C in GOOD shape and your golden.(see avatar)
Drifting
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 1,909
Likes: 6
From: Lake Arrowhead - Georgia > 72 Base Coupe & 74 BB Roadster
Everyone is different about T-Tops and Ragtops. In its day, the T-Top was remarkable in design and cost more than a vert. I have had both over the years and currently have one of each. The convertible is like a totally different car than the T-Top. I would gladly swap out my 72 T-Top for a similar ragtop. Others prefer a T-Top. I love my old 74 Ragtop 454
Last edited by fotyfobravo; Jul 7, 2007 at 08:48 PM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 2,540
Likes: 1
From: Pineville Kentucky
CI 6-8-9 Veteran
Forget the "balance" issue. The car will never be a slalom/autocross winner without extensive upgrades. (ie DDCART) You are PROBABLY looking for a good comfortable cruising car and for that the balance is a wash.
Give me a 1973 BB 4 speed A/C coupe anyday.
$ for $ it'll be tough to beat.
Give me a 1973 BB 4 speed A/C coupe anyday.
$ for $ it'll be tough to beat.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 832
Likes: 0
From: Sarasota Florida