I have had several C5's including z06's. I now want to get a c3 since they are cheaper and I can play with them easier. I have built engines before and the newer cars I cant do much with. I am looking for a car that I can build a very high performance engine for (500+ hp). i dont care about numbers matching, etc.. What are the major changes during the years of the c3, anyones to stay away from? anyone know of websites detailing the subtle changes over the years?

thanks

 

If you're swapping the engine, the frames on these are basically all the same. Body styles changed mainly with chrome bumper (early C3s) to rubber bumper (later C3s). They came with big blocks through about 1973, but I'm guessing you could put one in any year with some mods to the hood area.

Your biggest decision might be with emissions requirements where you live. If it's, say 30 years and older, you should look at 75s and older to avoid hassles with licensing.

Most forum members who know anything agree that 1970 Vettes are the best looking.

 

Nope, '69

 

Like 'em both, just can't afford one!

 

1974 for the BB's.

I'll add... the later C3's had bigger wheel wells to stuff tires, and the gravel shield fenders started in 1970.

Check your current State emissions laws to see when your cutoff date is for testing.... it's not the same in all States.

 

Anything later than 72 has excessive weight problems brought about by the 5mph bumper legislation. I think the 69 is the best style but, I own a 72 LT-1 and woulldn't trade it for a 69 as the LT-1 has the best power/weight combination of all Vettes. The "egg crates" grow on you after some time and they can be quickly removed to access parts like a "real" ignition box (Accel 300+ with built in rev limiter that adjusts with internal rotary switches) mounted on the driver's side where the evaporative cannisted used to be.

 

Z-man has made a very important point....that all people should know....I think it should become a sticky:

1970 Vettes are the best looking.

 

I know theres at least several sites showing the parking light changes and such. Someone must have a link.
If you still have your C5 wheels you can put them on these cars. The wagon wheels don't look too bad but made for this set back are better, in those 18"17" sizes or even 20" rims.

I would highly highly suggest using a big block Its not just the HP but the torque you get. One more reason to get one of these older cars.


The main changes, body are the loss of chrome bumpers to the plastic.
The loss of the tiny spoiler flare to the down angled rear.
Performance. Emission years. The emission years also have bad exhaust systems that you might be stuck with, if you have to meet emissions, to having cats- that you might have to keep. The later years, plastic bumpers/angled back have more creature comforts- usually. Interior changed kind of major mid 70s? not much but enough to base a decision on.
All other changes were mostly minor. Tail lights front lights the side gills and other "model" changes. Engines are a major change but doesn't affect your decision since thats your choice.
Rear end choices also are more diverse in the early period than mid/ later. You can change it though.
A sweeping generality is the time era the cars were built in.
Generaly speaking the early 70s were pre-emission and pre-gas economy. Not only built for performance but bought for it, not too many options other than performance items. Mid to late were getting heavily into emisson/economy and compromising performance. luxery was added to make up for this. Much less performance items even offered.

Radios in the later years are closer to an aftermarket hole. Early ones use a special **** spacing and you either replace the gauge cluster, cut it or do something special.

 

If you plan to build a high HP car, beware that the later 1979?-1982 had lighter duty aluminum rear ends, lighter half shafts, and lighter u-joints.

1969 is clearly the best looking model year. 1969 was also the last year for tri-power BBs, L-88s, and ZL1s.

1971 is the last year for fiber optics which are a classy touch.

 

I agree and 70 was last year for high compression engines, but of course I am a 70 owner

 

What engine came in what year and what power don't matter if your putting a better engine in.

 

thanks for all the info. i like the earlier years for the looks and the non-emissions. can I put a big block in a non big block car? Is it a pain with the motor mounts and such?

thanks.

 

need frt coil springs,and a better radiator,bracketry is different,motor mounts will drop rightin.piece of cake

 

1 bumper (73) cars are the last of affordable chrome cars. In my search, I cam accross a lot of 74s to 77s but without the chrome they just weren't special.

When did the flat rear windows dissappear? I can't get into the 78 or laters at all. The 25th anniversary badges on the 78s are good though.

just my .02