C3 corvettes
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 420
Likes: 0
C3 corvettes
Mine is a 74 do you guys think these cars will one day be an actuall collector car ? I don't think right now they are due to the fact that there's so many around for sale etc. maybe in another 3o years ??? What do I think
Race Director
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 12,239
Likes: 19
From: Chino CA
'74's RULE!
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 1,209
Likes: 86
From: Putnam county NY
2025 c3 ('68-'73) of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2024 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
Maybe - 1974 is the first year for rubber front and back bumpers.
The BB convertibles are already desirable.
The BB convertibles are already desirable.
Burning Brakes
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,042
Likes: 1
From: Greensboro NC
What I've heard that set 74's apart:
First year urethane bumpers front and rear.
Only year with split rear bumper.
Last year for true dual exhausts.
And for me, and probably many others, the 74 is the most desirable of the urethane bumpered cars. Had I not got into a 69, I would most likely have a 74.
First year urethane bumpers front and rear.
Only year with split rear bumper.
Last year for true dual exhausts.
And for me, and probably many others, the 74 is the most desirable of the urethane bumpered cars. Had I not got into a 69, I would most likely have a 74.
Safety Car
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 3,593
Likes: 103
From: Southern Indiana
A Corvette will always be worth money.
There is someone around the corner who wants to own a vette whether their first or think they need a second one sitting around to **** off the neighbors!
There is someone around the corner who wants to own a vette whether their first or think they need a second one sitting around to **** off the neighbors!
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 37,637
Likes: 3,116
From: Crossville TN
No. The '74 and later cars will never achieve "collector" status...with the definition being that there will be cars of that vintage sought after by actual collectors who want them for their collections/museums.
The only collector cars in the C3 groups are (and will be) the L-88's, the ZL cars, the '68/69 BB high-performance cars, and the 1970 LT-1's and hi-perf BB cars.
All the other C3's will be "hobby" cars, but won't ever be considered seriously by the 'real' collectors.
I didn't mention the '73 cars, because the '73 BB cars might someday fall into the collector status...at least in some folks thinking...strictly because of the one-year only body styling.
The only collector cars in the C3 groups are (and will be) the L-88's, the ZL cars, the '68/69 BB high-performance cars, and the 1970 LT-1's and hi-perf BB cars.
All the other C3's will be "hobby" cars, but won't ever be considered seriously by the 'real' collectors.
I didn't mention the '73 cars, because the '73 BB cars might someday fall into the collector status...at least in some folks thinking...strictly because of the one-year only body styling.
Racer
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 341
Likes: 2
From: Elderslie, Scotland
No. The '74 and later cars will never achieve "collector" status...with the definition being that there will be cars of that vintage sought after by actual collectors who want them for their collections/museums.
The only collector cars in the C3 groups are (and will be) the L-88's, the ZL cars, the '68/69 BB high-performance cars, and the 1970 LT-1's and hi-perf BB cars.
All the other C3's will be "hobby" cars, but won't ever be considered seriously by the 'real' collectors.
I didn't mention the '73 cars, because the '73 BB cars might someday fall into the collector status...at least in some folks thinking...strictly because of the one-year only body styling.
The only collector cars in the C3 groups are (and will be) the L-88's, the ZL cars, the '68/69 BB high-performance cars, and the 1970 LT-1's and hi-perf BB cars.
All the other C3's will be "hobby" cars, but won't ever be considered seriously by the 'real' collectors.
I didn't mention the '73 cars, because the '73 BB cars might someday fall into the collector status...at least in some folks thinking...strictly because of the one-year only body styling.
As everything becomes older and rarer they will inevitably become collectable. Just saying....
Corvette Stories
The Best of Corvette for Corvette Enthusiasts
150 hp to 1,250 hp: Every Corvette Generation Compared by the Specs That Matter
Joe Kucinski
8 Coolest Corvette Pace Cars (and Replicas) of All Time
Verdad Gallardo
Top 10 Corvette Engines RANKED by Peak Torque (70+ Years of Muscle!)
Joe Kucinski
Corvette ZR1X Will Be Pacing the Indy 500, And Could Probably Race, Too!
Verdad Gallardo
Top 10 Corvettes Coming to Mecum Indy 2026!
Brett Foote
Top 10 C9 Corvette MUST-HAVES to Fix These C8 Generation Flaws!
Michael S. Palmer
10 Revolutionary 'Corvette Firsts' Most People Don't Know
Joe Kucinski
5 Reasons to Upgrade to an LS6-Powered Corvette; 5 Reasons to Stay LT2
Michael S. Palmer
2027 Corvette vs The World: Every C8 vs Its Closest Competitor
Joe Kucinski
Safety Car
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 3,593
Likes: 103
From: Southern Indiana
No. The '74 and later cars will never achieve "collector" status...with the definition being that there will be cars of that vintage sought after by actual collectors who want them for their collections/museums.
The only collector cars in the C3 groups are (and will be) the L-88's, the ZL cars, the '68/69 BB high-performance cars, and the 1970 LT-1's and hi-perf BB cars.
All the other C3's will be "hobby" cars, but won't ever be considered seriously by the 'real' collectors.
I didn't mention the '73 cars, because the '73 BB cars might someday fall into the collector status...at least in some folks thinking...strictly because of the one-year only body styling.
The only collector cars in the C3 groups are (and will be) the L-88's, the ZL cars, the '68/69 BB high-performance cars, and the 1970 LT-1's and hi-perf BB cars.
All the other C3's will be "hobby" cars, but won't ever be considered seriously by the 'real' collectors.
I didn't mention the '73 cars, because the '73 BB cars might someday fall into the collector status...at least in some folks thinking...strictly because of the one-year only body styling.
I guess you never heard of a 74 BB, 75 convertible, 78 Pacecar, or the 82 "collector" edition???
They need to start calling c3s: "C3 early and C3 late" class so chrome bumper people and can have their own corner of the parking lot to gloat over their monster 350ci, 270 HP status. whooptie doo!
Last edited by Tim H; Sep 29, 2012 at 09:25 AM.
Advanced
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 93
Likes: 9
From: Auburn, WA
I think the other members posts are right on, if you're looking for your 74 to hit the big money you're going to have wait. One thing I've noticed in the forum is the people, they are true enthusiasts and for most part own Corvettes because they just love the car. I think you would be best served to just enjoy it. Thats why the boys at Chevrolet started building them in the first place.
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 37,637
Likes: 3,116
From: Crossville TN
Well, thanks for bashing my opinion. But, that's still my opinion, anyway. I'm not a "chrome bumper elitist". I've owned a '74, '84, and other early C3's and like them all. But what was asked was "Do you guys think these cars will become collectible?"
Are all C1's collectible? No. Are all C2's collectible? No. Only the most unusual, high-performance, rarest combination cars make it to the "collectible" status. There is nothing 'rare', 'unusual', or 'high-performance' about a low-compression SB, cookie-cutter mid-70's Corvette. They make a nice "hobby" car for the C3 enthusiasts; and they are fun to work on, clean up, drive on the weekends, and even take to car cruise-ins or shows. But, that doesn't make them... "Collectible".
And, from now on, when someone on the Forum posts their OPINION, why don't you politely state that you disagree and state your reasons.... rather than childishly calling others names or stereotyping them because of YOUR elitist assumption that you are right and others who differ from you are wrong.
P.S. You are correct about one thing... MY car will never become "collectible", just like YOUR car will never become "collectible".
Are all C1's collectible? No. Are all C2's collectible? No. Only the most unusual, high-performance, rarest combination cars make it to the "collectible" status. There is nothing 'rare', 'unusual', or 'high-performance' about a low-compression SB, cookie-cutter mid-70's Corvette. They make a nice "hobby" car for the C3 enthusiasts; and they are fun to work on, clean up, drive on the weekends, and even take to car cruise-ins or shows. But, that doesn't make them... "Collectible".
And, from now on, when someone on the Forum posts their OPINION, why don't you politely state that you disagree and state your reasons.... rather than childishly calling others names or stereotyping them because of YOUR elitist assumption that you are right and others who differ from you are wrong.
P.S. You are correct about one thing... MY car will never become "collectible", just like YOUR car will never become "collectible".
Last edited by 7T1vette; Sep 29, 2012 at 11:18 AM.
Burning Brakes
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 1,201
Likes: 2
From: Frederick Md
Since I own 6 Corvettes My wife "Assumes" they are all collectible...
But in my mind only 64 and 72 convertibles MAY at some point be collectibles ..
BUT my 76 or 79 sure is not ever going to be a collectible for at least another 50 to 100 years nor are my 35th ANC 89 or my 98 Convertible
Who really cares...
Bob G
But in my mind only 64 and 72 convertibles MAY at some point be collectibles ..
BUT my 76 or 79 sure is not ever going to be a collectible for at least another 50 to 100 years nor are my 35th ANC 89 or my 98 Convertible
Who really cares...
Bob G
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,405
Likes: 59
From: Emerald Isle NC
Anything can be a "collectable".
Stuff that is made to be collectable (in an investment sense) never is (1982 CE Vette included).
Ferraris are collectable and investment grade because so few of them are made initially. (Production numbers below 100 examples).
In this sense, NO Corvette should be collectable or investment grade. There's simply too many of them made. All of them, C1 thru C6.
What makes them collectable is a very dedicated following. Beyond that, the inflated price is a "bubble". Like any bubble, it is due to burst someday.
I bought my car to drive and enjoy, not looking to make a buck at a later date. If that's what you're after, you'll likely be disappointed.
If you want an automotive investment, buy a Duesenberg, a M-B 300 Gullwing, a Porsche Speedster, an AC Cobra, etc. Corvettes will never rise to this level.
Just my opinion...
Carter
Stuff that is made to be collectable (in an investment sense) never is (1982 CE Vette included).
Ferraris are collectable and investment grade because so few of them are made initially. (Production numbers below 100 examples).
In this sense, NO Corvette should be collectable or investment grade. There's simply too many of them made. All of them, C1 thru C6.
What makes them collectable is a very dedicated following. Beyond that, the inflated price is a "bubble". Like any bubble, it is due to burst someday.
I bought my car to drive and enjoy, not looking to make a buck at a later date. If that's what you're after, you'll likely be disappointed.
If you want an automotive investment, buy a Duesenberg, a M-B 300 Gullwing, a Porsche Speedster, an AC Cobra, etc. Corvettes will never rise to this level.
Just my opinion...
Carter
Race Director
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 12,239
Likes: 19
From: Chino CA
Well, thanks for bashing my opinion. But, that's still my opinion, anyway. I'm not a "chrome bumper elitist". I've owned a '74, '84, and other early C3's and like them all. But what was asked was "Do you guys think these cars will become collectible?"
Are all C1's collectible? No. Are all C2's collectible? No. Only the most unusual, high-performance, rarest combination cars make it to the "collectible" status. There is nothing 'rare', 'unusual', or 'high-performance' about a low-compression SB, cookie-cutter mid-70's Corvette. They make a nice "hobby" car for the C3 enthusiasts; and they are fun to work on, clean up, drive on the weekends, and even take to car cruise-ins or shows. But, that doesn't make them... "Collectible".
And, from now on, when someone on the Forum posts their OPINION, why don't you politely state that you disagree and state your reasons.... rather than childishly calling others names or stereotyping them because of YOUR elitist assumption that you are right and others who differ from you are wrong.
P.S. You are correct about one thing... MY car will never become "collectible", just like YOUR car will never become "collectible".
Are all C1's collectible? No. Are all C2's collectible? No. Only the most unusual, high-performance, rarest combination cars make it to the "collectible" status. There is nothing 'rare', 'unusual', or 'high-performance' about a low-compression SB, cookie-cutter mid-70's Corvette. They make a nice "hobby" car for the C3 enthusiasts; and they are fun to work on, clean up, drive on the weekends, and even take to car cruise-ins or shows. But, that doesn't make them... "Collectible".
And, from now on, when someone on the Forum posts their OPINION, why don't you politely state that you disagree and state your reasons.... rather than childishly calling others names or stereotyping them because of YOUR elitist assumption that you are right and others who differ from you are wrong.
P.S. You are correct about one thing... MY car will never become "collectible", just like YOUR car will never become "collectible".
I disagree 100%
Racer
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 482
Likes: 0
From: Near Round Top (pop. 90) Texas
No. The '74 and later cars will never achieve "collector" status...with the definition being that there will be cars of that vintage sought after by actual collectors who want them for their collections/museums.
The only collector cars in the C3 groups are (and will be) the L-88's, the ZL cars, the '68/69 BB high-performance cars, and the 1970 LT-1's and hi-perf BB cars.
All the other C3's will be "hobby" cars, but won't ever be considered seriously by the 'real' collectors.
I didn't mention the '73 cars, because the '73 BB cars might someday fall into the collector status...at least in some folks thinking...strictly because of the one-year only body styling.
The only collector cars in the C3 groups are (and will be) the L-88's, the ZL cars, the '68/69 BB high-performance cars, and the 1970 LT-1's and hi-perf BB cars.
All the other C3's will be "hobby" cars, but won't ever be considered seriously by the 'real' collectors.
I didn't mention the '73 cars, because the '73 BB cars might someday fall into the collector status...at least in some folks thinking...strictly because of the one-year only body styling.
I'm an ACTUAL collector, I have collected just 1 Vette so far.
Really, who cares anyway?
Instructor
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 185
Likes: 2
Mine is a 74 and I love it. I have dumped much more into it like most of us out there then it will ever be worth. If your asking will they ever bring money like a 68-72 the answer is simply "No". Its not because there are just so many around (infact I see more chrome bumpers around because everyone dumped money into them to restore). The mid 70s c3's on just didnt offer the performance that comes to mind with years before (these cars werent as bad as people make them out to, but they still werent like the earlier years).
Anyway, the price itself will probably keep going up, but the value of a dollar will also keep going down, so just becuase in 25 years it will cost $35,000 for your average 74, doesnt make much difference if $35,000 then is what $15,000 is now.
Late 60s and 70s cars are pretty much in their prime. Already you have seen the prices dropping over the past few years and I am sure a lot has to do with the economy. Its also has a big part of age groups. Guys tend to want the cars they would have liked to own when they were young but could not afford, or had one then and want another one now. As the age groups get older and dont have time to deal or drive theses cars (not saying its coming soon) the desire will decrease somewhat (unknown how much) but I am pretty sure it will.
Im 30 years old and I have owned my 74 since I was 15 years old. It was my first car and I dont have any plans on selling it. What I can tell you is that the many people I know in my age bracket, only a small part of the car guys even care for the 60s-70s era cars. Most only start to like a small amount of 80s cars such as a GN Buick or a few Camaros or Firebirds (once again probably because its what they knew growing up).
Anyway, back to the question of value, I think the price will keep going up but if you compare it to the inflation of a dollar, I dont think you will ever see a real difference in actual value, nor do I think it will ever get much better then what it is now. It still does not change how much I love my 74 and I dont plan on selling it. I hope I get to say I still own my first car when I am 60, 70, etc.
Enjoy them and drive them often, I know I dont get to use mine nearly as often as I would like.
Anyway, the price itself will probably keep going up, but the value of a dollar will also keep going down, so just becuase in 25 years it will cost $35,000 for your average 74, doesnt make much difference if $35,000 then is what $15,000 is now.
Late 60s and 70s cars are pretty much in their prime. Already you have seen the prices dropping over the past few years and I am sure a lot has to do with the economy. Its also has a big part of age groups. Guys tend to want the cars they would have liked to own when they were young but could not afford, or had one then and want another one now. As the age groups get older and dont have time to deal or drive theses cars (not saying its coming soon) the desire will decrease somewhat (unknown how much) but I am pretty sure it will.
Im 30 years old and I have owned my 74 since I was 15 years old. It was my first car and I dont have any plans on selling it. What I can tell you is that the many people I know in my age bracket, only a small part of the car guys even care for the 60s-70s era cars. Most only start to like a small amount of 80s cars such as a GN Buick or a few Camaros or Firebirds (once again probably because its what they knew growing up).
Anyway, back to the question of value, I think the price will keep going up but if you compare it to the inflation of a dollar, I dont think you will ever see a real difference in actual value, nor do I think it will ever get much better then what it is now. It still does not change how much I love my 74 and I dont plan on selling it. I hope I get to say I still own my first car when I am 60, 70, etc.
Enjoy them and drive them often, I know I dont get to use mine nearly as often as I would like.
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 30,995
Likes: 98
From: Ontario
It's just an old car. But a fun one so drive it and enjoy for now. I doubt that the internal combustion engine will be around (and the fuel needed) in 30 years. Collector car, no.
Last edited by Paul L; Sep 29, 2012 at 07:03 PM.
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 37,637
Likes: 3,116
From: Crossville TN
Owning a '74 (or any other C3) is one thing. Calling one car a "collection" is something else. If you think that you are a 'collector' because you own one, well, good for you. We have significantly different definitions for a "collector" car. But, that's why I included my definition in my prior post.
Have fun with your collection....
Have fun with your collection....
Race Director
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 12,239
Likes: 19
From: Chino CA
Owning a '74 (or any other C3) is one thing. Calling one car a "collection" is something else. If you think that you are a 'collector' because you own one, well, good for you. We have significantly different definitions for a "collector" car. But, that's why I included my definition in my prior post.
Have fun with your collection....
Have fun with your collection....
