69 vs 70, vs 72
 

Hi members

This isn't a WTB but I am looking.

Just need your professional opinion on a 1969, 70 or 72 model.

I'm from Australia and finding it challenging to find a 69 that isn't a total disaster here or in the US. Would obviously need to get anything inspected.

I have a budget of $18,000 US (approx $24,000 AU) which I've been told should buy a driving 69 where the birdcage and frame aren't about to crumble like a biscuit.

The other thought is a 70 or 72 model for the same money?

I've found a ripper 70 model with a new crate 383 from Blueprint engines that's had some other work done too for around $20,000 US (ABOVE MY BUDGET).

There is a 72 in Australia which needs work. Been in Australia 20 years with one owner. Originally a San Francisco car. He wants $33,000 AU (Havnt tried negotiating yet). Would save the pain and costs of importing and result in similar total cost though.

It costs approx $10,000 (Total costs) to bring down-under hence my total cost for the car landed is approx $30,000 AU.

I had my heart set on a 69 but am I being too precious? Are any one of the chrome bumper years a good option?

Any thoughts?

Please try and be helpful. This is my first Corvette journey.

There are lots of really knowledgeable folks on here that can list off a dozen or more differences between a ‘69 and the 70-72, but in my mind they are somewhat minor and don’t change the essence of why we love the chrome bumper cars. Sleek lines, the motor choices are all a bit more muscular than the later C3’s. The extra chrome is a nod to the true muscle car era. That sexy abbreviated ass end with the little lip spoiler that gives just the right amount of sassy attitude. L88 hoods just look more right on a chrome car. So do side pipes. Removable rear window.
Sorry, what were we talking about?

I think you get my point. I say go for it on the 70-72’s if it gets you in a chrome car.

I'm curious why you are skipping over a '71 in your question. (?)

Ha ha...great comments.

Yeah you are right. I think I'll keep it simple and keep and eye out for the best condition full Chrome bumper i can find for my budget.

They're all awesome 👍

Yes in my thread but only as I havnt come across any to consider.

My friend back here in Western Australia has a beautiful 71.

Definitely on my list.

For all practical purposes, the '71 and '72 car are nearly identical. The [apparent] difference in HP/torque numbers are strictly a case of the 'numbers game', as the rating system for engine power was changed from 'gross' power to 'net' power in 1972. So, no real difference there, either.

1971 and later cars could run on regular unleaded fuel. Unless you just need the power, drive more relaxed...and a lot further...for less money. :D

Hey that's a dam good point. Love your work :thumbs:

What kind of fuel would a '70 require?

Corvettes up to 1970 required higher octane and leaded gas. But my guess is, 90% of those early engines are either modified by now to accept modern gas or have been swapped all together, so nothing to worry about in my opinion.

Don't forget, the '71 is the last year with the fiber optics light monitoring system, the '72s don't have it. Minor difference, but I've always thought this was a really cool little feature👍

Help, please. Is "ripper" a good thing? I think you're saying you've found a 70 you like.
:)

Yes..."ripper" is a good one :thumbs:

How do you modify those early engines to accept modern gas?

New valves and valve seats. You would want to go through the heads completely with new seals since you have them off anyway, and I’d do new valve springs while you are at it.

Edit: Magnaflux the heads to check for cracks before sticking any money in them, though. No telling what 50 year old motor had been through.

Roger, again, don't worry about it. You're not going to find a car with an engine that has never been touched since the 70s. There's no need to consider such modifications unless you have a piece of furniture on wheels, that hasn't moved since 1984 or so. Gas is not the issue (or at least very rarely). You'll have other old car issues - wear and tear takes a toll on Corvettes too. But in my experience, engine issues are easier to fix and far less costly than let's say rust on the frame or birdcage.

I hope I didn't misunderstand the reason for your question.

only a purist will be able to tell the diff by the side fender vents. and they will appreciate either.

Are you open to the the '68 and '71 models, that might help produce more results?

Hi guys, I'm an American living in Australia. been here over 12 years. My advice to you is join your local Corvette Club. I'm in Queensland. been in 2 Clubs. I can tell you first hand that many a very nice car changes hands without ever being advertised. We have a annual Corvette Nationals which moves from State to state each year, hosted by a different Corvette club each year. So many Corvette enthusiasts know other enthusiasts around the country. Very nice cars are often sold or traded between members. A sudden death in the family often puts nice cars up. and often just the word is put out through the clubs. Join your Local Corvette Club

Yes I am...again, finding one is the challenge.

Looking at a nice 72 California car at the moment.

We'll see how it goes. I can only offer what I have.

A gold convertible ?