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Old Jun 29, 2025 | 03:28 PM
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Default Potential New C3 owner

Hey all!

I've been driving past this red 1980 c3 that's been for sale by a local for sometime (105k miles)

Finally took it for a test drive, and it seemed to run well. Brakes are a little squeaky, speedometer is a flaky, and ac blows hot. Otherwise, I didn't notice anything right off the bat. Been trying to do research on what I should look for, and what's a reasonable price.

Figured this forum could help!

Thanks,
Ash

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Old Jun 29, 2025 | 04:01 PM
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Welcome aboard, what’s the asking price? How’s the paint,interior etc.
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Old Jun 29, 2025 | 05:27 PM
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Welcome, from what I see looks in good shape, but looks are not the best, if you don't what to look for, and start asking questions, links below.

Here on the forum is place they are selling C3 to get idea of cost.

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...ale-wanted-56/

Here is another area to ask questions.

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/c3-general-119/

Good luck on the purchase!
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Old Jun 29, 2025 | 05:54 PM
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Originally Posted by old stingray
Welcome aboard, what’s the asking price? How’s the paint,interior etc.
The outside paint looks pretty good, a couple small scuffs/dings on driver door. Interior is dirty, but only real issue is leather is a bit worn. Can probably improve that with some care.

Other thing is it pulls a bit to the right. I didnt take it past 35 (was on local roads). I didn't notice much rust.

He wants 14k, but I feel like thats negotiable.
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Old Jun 29, 2025 | 06:41 PM
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Moving the over to C3 General where you hopefully will get the advice you are seeking.
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Old Jun 29, 2025 | 07:22 PM
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Thanks!
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Old Jun 29, 2025 | 07:53 PM
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Welcome to the forum!!!!
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Old Jun 29, 2025 | 08:02 PM
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Moved here, good luck on that C3.. looks good in pic
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Old Jun 29, 2025 | 08:28 PM
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Do you have more pics?
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Old Jun 29, 2025 | 08:35 PM
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Welcome!!
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Old Jun 29, 2025 | 08:47 PM
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Welcome aboard and you came to the right place. A few searches should answer many of your questions. Check for rust on the frame and birdcage and…if not an electrician…ensure all the lights work as they should. Old wiring can consume a lot of time when you should be enjoying driving your new ride.
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Old Jun 29, 2025 | 09:54 PM
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Originally Posted by TKX 5-SPEED C3
Do you have more pics?
Heres a few i took.






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Old Jun 30, 2025 | 01:21 AM
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Welcome, Ash.

Thanks for sharing those pictures. I suppose the vehicle is worth what you and the seller are willing to agree to but that's just more of a common sense answer from my behalf which may or may not help you as much. You guys can start talking and see where both of your expectations are as far as what you feel the vehicle is worth and what you feel you are willing to pay and/or sell for.

Good luck.
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Old Jun 30, 2025 | 04:51 AM
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Get under it and look closely at the frame for any rust. Try to look under the trim around the windshield and the area where the vin is on the windshield frame , looking for any rust. Rust in this area will be extremely expensive to repair. Look under the rear corners of the front fenders. The lower corners of the windshield, look hard. Rust? RUN!
If everything looks great, no rust. The price doesn't sound to far out.
Best of luck
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Old Jun 30, 2025 | 07:12 AM
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Id check for rust as already mentioned. 105k miles, brake issues, ac issues, engine compartment looks neglected, worn leather. How old are the tires? Been for sale for a while-$9k.
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Old Jun 30, 2025 | 06:26 PM
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Thanks for the tips everyone! I'll take a closer look at the frame and other things mentioned. I don't mind putting some work into it, but I don't want to be consumed by it. Always loved the C3 style, might look around a bit for one in better condition, or see if the owner will negotiate.
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Old Jun 30, 2025 | 09:22 PM
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Good looking car at first glance, check the dates on those tires. I don't think Goodyear has built the Wingfoot in quite some time.
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Old Jun 30, 2025 | 09:36 PM
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Introduction to Rust Programming. In the dynamic realm of software… | by  Michael Gold | Medium

Get her up in the air / lift & check under her skirt !!!

The reason she is most likely sitting is $14,000 is a bit steep. These can be found in that condition with those miles $8,000 - $10,000 area.
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