CADbrian

While I am searching for one, I have not yet owned a classic Corvette. I'm not sure if I've ever asked for people to tell me all the hassles and/or headaches of owing a classic C2 (specifically a 1967 L79 small block)? So, really, what are the real downsides to owing one?

I can think of things like:

• they're always leaking some kind of fluid (maybe I'm wrong)
• they don't ride like a new Corvette (maybe I'm wrong)
• they're not as reliable as a new Corvette (maybe I'm wrong)
• I'm sure they're always needing some kind of maintenance (maybe I'm wrong)

From those that have owned one or more classic Corvettes, what am I getting myself into?



Additionally, maybe you guys could finish the following sentence for me.

After you get your classic car, be sure you ________________________________________ __________.


Thanks in advance.

BrotherVette

Wrong about the first bullet....not always.
Bullets 3,4 and 5 your right about but I don’t consider that a headache. It’s actually why I love ‘em.

AkrHack

Drive it frequently!

Geralds57

Yes they will usually leak something. Nothing 50 years old is going to ride like a new car. I would think most are reliable but you’ll have a problem every now and then. One thing for sure, you won’t be driving it every day like your daily driver. Most of us here on the forum grew up with these cars when they were driven everyday, so were used to the ride and reliability problems. Whatever you buy, it’s probably going to have something that needs addressed. After you get your classic car be sure you........ smile and drive the wheels off it!

SledgeHammer 2.0

That's the only downside there is, is not being able to park it without worrying about it getting stolen.

CADbrian

Thanks. Good point.

tbarb

I think you are thinking the right way, owning a older car is not for everybody, all your points are spot on.

Your last sentence should read BEFORE you buy a C2 Corvette have it inspected by a knowledgeable person so you know ahead of time the good and bad about that particular car so you can decide if it's right for you. Remember, all these cars have lived a life before being valuable, sometimes you have to put on lots of makeup to be the prom queen.

Biggest problem I see with these cars for anyone that's not hands on is finding a qualified person to work on it. Many people have gone down the road of $$$ then upside down on their ride and that does not make much sense to most of us. They are actually pretty simple once you become familiar with the things that are Corvette only like the independent suspension but there is a learning curve for sure. I am 61 now and have been playing with these things since I was 18 and back then I knew everything. :-)

lonzoo

I found the biggest problem I have is being able to acknowledge all the thumbs up and waves and horn beeping I get when I drive mine. Not to mention all the people who want to talk about the car when I get gas. What a problem to have..Huh ?

MikeM

Your biggest problem aside from what you mentioned will be the big loss in value if you get the car you're looking for and start driving it every day. Then again, maybe that's not a problem?

Which are the most well known & documented 1967 L79 350 HP coupe?

Then, if you pick your mechanics like you're picking your cars, those same mechanics will pick you like a chicken putting parts back on the car that fell off.

If you're unfamiliar with older cars, I'd suggest you buy a much more modern Corvette.

CADbrian

Yikes

CADbrian

Wouldn't be a problem. I've got other vehicles for dailys.


Are you inferring the possibility that I'll get taken advantage of financially by mechanics?

CADbrian

Yeah, I can see that happening.

CADbrian

Roger that.


I've been asking around, where other classic car guys have their vehicles serviced and worked on. While I haven't settled on a shop or 2 I do think I have several good choices around or not too far in distance. I also have an enclosed trailer if that becomes necessary.

rayvaflav

are willing to tolerate some small fluid leaks, possibly only seepage. But even seepage will get you a little bit of that "machine smell" and that's something that some people love (it comes with the territory) and some people can't stand it after having a newer and leak free/smell free vehicle. The L79 is a great package and it's very forgiving as well. Also realize, you just might hafta' push that gas pedal a few times when it's cold …

Ray

CADbrian

You mean like "pumping" the gas pedal a couple of times on a cold start up???

Wayne88

Probably all of those are true, to some extent, for any classic car that's over 50 years old.

If you are looking to buy a C2, I'd worry less about 'originality' and more about it's mechanical condition. I'd buy one that was actually "used" by its owner; at least you know it starts, runs and stops. Repairs can be endless on any old car, get one that runs good.

Also, ask for a history of maintenance and repairs. Just because a car looks good, that doesn't mean it's mechanically sound. Use your brain, not your heart when deciding, and look for any negative aspects that might mean problems in the future. Remember, there are plenty to choose from, and don't get fooled by a nice paint job, or new interior.

2009stanger

I’ve had a few “headaches” with my 65 over the last 9 years. However, with the help of this forum, I’ve always been able to resolve them without too much hassle.

pop23235

Whatever you do, seek advice before you purchase!

Frankie the Fink

With proper care and maintenance, you can turn the key on a C2 Corvette and drive it anywhere in the country, safely and reliably -- just like people did every day of their lives 50 years ago...none of that has changed.

CADbrian

Cool. Thanks.