5 Things to Look For When Buying a Vintage Corvette
Are you in the market for a vintage Corvette? Here are 5 things you need to look for before you drop your hard-earned cash on a classic ride.
1. Body Condition
Just because a Corvette's body is made of fiberglass, that doesn't mean you don't have to worry about rust. The body panels are attached to a lightweight metal frame that can rust and cause problems. Be sure and get underneath the car with a flashlight and inspect it thoroughly. With the body itself, make sure the original body panels are in place and haven't suffered from cracks or shoddy repairs. Also, check the front clip to make sure it hasn't been replaced by a one-piece aftermarket part.
>>Join the conversation about the Things to Look for in a Vintage Corvette here in Corvette Forum.
2. Missing Parts
A missing part of two might not seem like a big deal but that depends on what parts those are. And while certain parts are still widely available and reasonably priced, many are virtually impossible to find and incredibly expensive if you do. This is especially true if you're hunting a rare or one year only model variant. Also, consider rare options like air conditioning; knock off wheels, heavy duty brakes, and wood grain steering wheels on certain models. Finding a vintage Corvette with rare options is great, but make sure everything is present, authentic and in working order if possible.
>>Join the conversation about the Things to Look for in a Vintage Corvette here in Corvette Forum.
3. Proper Documentation
Proper documentation isn't always absolutely necessary, but you could get burned if you don't have it. This is especially true with an investment grade or rare car. Sellers who possess meticulous documentation have obviously cared for the car, making it a potentially safer buy. Plus, it adds to the value of the car both now and down the road if you choose to restore it. The level of detail collectors seek on vintage Corvettes has only gotten more comprehensive over the years. Proper documentation helps answer any questions about the car that may arise. You will pay a premium for that piece of mind that comes with meticulous documentation but it beats getting burned by a shady seller.
>>Join the conversation about the Things to Look for in a Vintage Corvette here in Corvette Forum.
4. Frame Condition
A frame devoid of rust and damage is critical when looking at any vintage car, let alone a sports car like the Corvette. Corvette frames have a habit of developing rust in the rear axle kick up section. If possible, put the car up on a lift and use your fingers to inspect the frame. Start at the section just in front of the rear wheel wells, and be sure and check the side rails below the doors. In some cases, the front cross member can rot as well. And while you're inspecting the frame, look for any twisting or obvious damage.
>>Join the conversation about the Things to Look for in a Vintage Corvette here in Corvette Forum.
5. Drivetrain
Always check to make sure that your engine and transmission are original. You can do this by checking the stampings on the cylinder head, block, and other identification marks. The location of these markings varies by generation, but always make sure they are stamped. Cast markings can be faked. Block casting dates indicate the month, day, and year, which can help verify that it is original. Transmissions were often stamped with date codes as well and in some cases partial VIN codes. Depending on what type of Corvette you're looking for, a replacement engine may not be such a bad thing. But don't get caught paying big money for a fake.