Help with first Corvette?
Thread Starter
4th Gear
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
Help with first Corvette?
So my story is that I found a 85 corvette that a guy was going to sell for $1500 (note I have not talked to the guy yet not directly because of complications) I learned that he has blown the motor and I do not know which meaning that is as the actual broken block or a interior break etc. I am young for being interested in a corvette but I find working on cars fun and entertaining So having to work a bit for it is not a big deal for me, and basically would like to know anyone's recommendation on what I should do in this case. If it would be better to get a new motor for the car or to try to rebuild it. Also I have looked for a l98 engine but so far no luck so I would like to know what kind of engines would also easily fit into the vehicle. Thank you
Also I forgot that I do not know his current price with the blown engine if that matters.
Also I forgot that I do not know his current price with the blown engine if that matters.
Last edited by Leppy; Apr 19, 2015 at 02:22 AM.
Race Director
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From: Compound in the Grove, Ga.
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St. Jude Donor '16
If you can get it very cheap and don't mind the work or the fact it is an older car and i'm sure you will end up spending $ in other areas on it, go for it it would be a great project. Don't get in a hurry do it right. 
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 3,496
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From: New Jersey
The rest of the car would have to be good or better. If it needs paint, interior, and motor, it is essentially worthless as you can buy a nice one for $5000 and a decent driver for $3500-4000.
Safety Car
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 4,426
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From: Pennsylvania
I guess it all depends on where you live. In my area $5000.00 isn't going to get you any "nice" C4. It will be more of a fixer upper or project car needing lots of repairs for that price.
Race Director
Joined: Jan 2007
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From: NYC NY
Anything around here for $2500 or less is a little more than "paper work". On the same token $1500 will turn into to $6500 in the blink of an eye and the O/P would probably be better off spending more money for more car.
Thread Starter
4th Gear
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 4
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Okay So basically I should have given more information on it to get more precise help, but I do like the help I have gotten so far thank you all for helping me with if it is a good car on exterior and interior. I believe it should be good on the inside and out it is just the blown motor should be the only problem. The bad thing is I only can contact him through my friend who goes through his brother who then goes to the guy... I've asked for the guy's number so I can talk to him personally but I've basically been getting a refusal. I should probably also mention that I am 'around 18' and have a okay job as for buying things in the long run and the only way I can afford to buy this vette is by selling my car witch I was already doing before I found this one.
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 7,708
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From: indy indiana
a 1986 or earlier engine is the same (construction wise) engine/block in the 85 you are thinking about. In 1987, chevy started with a roller cam engine which I would look for if seeking a rebuildable engine. I wouldn't go over 1500 bucks for that car unless it was near perfect. Be aware that if he blew the engine, he probably trashed the rest of the car maintance wise.
Thread Starter
4th Gear
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
The guy refused to Sell the car now and is apparently going to drop a huge engine in it and make it into a drag car. But even though he is not selling it, I appreciate your help and I will still continue my search for my first corvette! Thank you all!
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Instructor
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a 1986 or earlier engine is the same (construction wise) engine/block in the 85 you are thinking about. In 1987, chevy started with a roller cam engine which I would look for if seeking a rebuildable engine. I wouldn't go over 1500 bucks for that car unless it was near perfect. Be aware that if he blew the engine, he probably trashed the rest of the car maintance wise.
Racer
Joined: Aug 2014
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From: Toledo
3JsVette is 100% right! been there done that. Pass this car up!
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