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My Corvette Story

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Old Jul 13, 2011 | 06:04 PM
  #1  
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Default My Corvette Story

Hi folks. I just wanted to share my story of how I got my Vette and how awesome it is.

It started when I was around 12 years old. My dad told me that he would match whatever I paid for my first car. So basically, I would have to pay half of it. I was young(er than I am now) and more foolish, so I thought hey, maybe if I can just save birthday and Christmas money for 4 years I can afford half a car. Then, I spent some of it. Video games, mainly. By the time I was 15, I had learned my lesson, both from experience and lessons from my dad. I was a year away from driving, and hardly any money. I made my dad take me to the bank so I could get an account and save my money. That same year, my dad showed me pictures of his 77 Vette he bought when he was a senior in high school. I was hooked instantly.

By the time I was 16, I still only had around $700 from birthday/Christmas and chores. Obviously, not enough to get the car I really wanted. So I decided it was time to get a job. I applied everywhere. It took me forever (it seemed) to actually be hired, but Publix hired me about 2 months later. I worked there until I was 17, and I had around $4000. Just a few more months and maybe I could afford to pay for half of a car. And sure enough, 3 months later, I could pay for about half of most 77-82 Corvettes on eBay. But the problem was, my dad was holding out for "the right one." It had to be in good condition and not overpriced. I checked daily.

Finally, in March, I found one that was only at $7000 on bids and looked great. I showed my dad. He said this was the one. It got up to $9,300, and it was ours. The next Saturday, me and my dad drove to Ohio from Georgia (10 or so hours) to buy it. I couldn't believe it. I was going to own a red 1982 Corvette. We trailered it home. We had to make some minor repairs (Speedometer cables, speakers, etc.) and it looked and ran great. At just 17 years old, I am a proud 2nd generation owner of a C3 Corvette, and I wouldn't trade it for any car.
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Old Jul 13, 2011 | 06:25 PM
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Great story! Nice to see a 17 year old with goals and a good work ethic. Bet your Dad is proud of you. Lots of luck and let him drive it once in a while
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Old Jul 13, 2011 | 06:34 PM
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Welcome and congratulations! I fell in love with Corvettes back in 1968. I finally bought my first Vette (73 coupe) last summer and bought my second one (68 vert) 2 months ago. My sons, 20 and 19, also love the C3 era Vette, so I gave them the 73 and now we enjoy the hobby together! Sounds like you and your dad will share the same passion that we do! Is your dad a CF member too? Post some pictures!!!!
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Old Jul 13, 2011 | 06:38 PM
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Congrats - I always like hearing about young people having an appreciation for older cars (and music for that matter). Enjoy!!
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Old Jul 13, 2011 | 06:51 PM
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Congrats, now not to bring you down from your high but son your going to need a second job now just to pay for insurance.

I got a 16 year old at the house and ain't no one will touch him on the vette for less than a couple $K a year.
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Old Jul 13, 2011 | 09:06 PM
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Thanks guys. My dad sold his long before I was born, so he isn't a member. Ill get pictures up ASAP.

I love older cars AND music! I almost wish I grew up in the 70s.

And my parents were nice enough to put the insurance in their name, for now at least. I'm saving up now for when it has to go in my name.
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Old Jul 13, 2011 | 09:38 PM
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Nice to see young people into these cars. Keep the dream alive and welcome to the forum. You have come to the right spot and we like lots of pics. I know your going to respect and love this car, she will make you love her.
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Old Jul 13, 2011 | 09:41 PM
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great story, have fun and be careful! enjoy the car and wrenching on it with your dad!
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Old Jul 13, 2011 | 11:51 PM
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Nice story! I got my first when I was 18. Your lucky that your dad was willing to pay for some of yours. I am now currently on my 5th C3 corvette (in four years), so beware it is kind of an addiction
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Old Jul 14, 2011 | 06:56 PM
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Hi sz,
That's a GREAT story!!!!
Take it from a VERY old man.... you'll remember this car as the years go by, so think twice about ever letting it go.
Now; where are the PICTURES?
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Old Jul 14, 2011 | 06:59 PM
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I'm 23 and got my silver '78 L-82 last month. Looking to have many years of fun with it!!
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Old Jul 14, 2011 | 07:39 PM
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Congratulations! Way to keep your eye on the prize and work for what you wanted!! Welcome to the forum.
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Old Jul 14, 2011 | 07:57 PM
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That's a great story lets see a few photos of the car! I think its great that you really earned your first ride
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Old Jul 14, 2011 | 08:00 PM
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I put up 4 photos yesterday, but it still says "image pending approval" when I click on "My Corvette Photos." Is this just a matter of waiting it out, or is there something I can do to speed it up?
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Old Jul 14, 2011 | 08:01 PM
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Great story I love to see the younger generation getting into these cars
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Old Jul 14, 2011 | 10:02 PM
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Originally Posted by Binnie77
Great story I love to see the younger generation getting into these cars


Congrats on the Vette!
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Old Jul 14, 2011 | 11:10 PM
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Originally Posted by szinkel
I put up 4 photos yesterday, but it still says "image pending approval" when I click on "My Corvette Photos." Is this just a matter of waiting it out, or is there something I can do to speed it up?
Upload them to Photobucket.com
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To My Corvette Story

Old Jul 14, 2011 | 11:55 PM
  #18  
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Pictures are at photobucket.com/vettescott

I tried to link it but it didn't work. So sorry for the inconvenience.

The chrome trim around the windshield and back window has been repainted to the factory black since the pictures were taken.
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Old Jul 15, 2011 | 11:58 AM
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Here ya go. Just copy the image code at the bottom of the list and paste it here.



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Old Jul 15, 2011 | 12:07 PM
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Beautiful Vette and great story.

I had to wait until I was 47 before I got my '82.

Welcome to the forums.
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