5 Things I HATE about my 1971 454 C3 Corvette

#Chevrolet #Corvette #Stingray
(PLEASE READ BEFORE COMPLAINING IN THE COMMENTS)
I read every comment and it seems a lot of ''older viewers'' are upset about this video... Please don't take it too seriously... Technically, I just tell to the viewers regular C3 and older cars problems to people.
About a year ago, I've brought back my grandfather's 1971 Chevrolet Corvette 454 convertible he sold before passing in the late 90's... Although I absolutely love it, there are some downsides to own such a car. And let's be clear, I don't hate that car. I feel like it's a strong word but let's just say those are the things I '' dislike'' about it.
Would you daily drive a C3 Corvette?
Instagram: @dom_dub
Twitter: @domdubreuil
Facebook: / octanefix
Drop a like and have fun watching!

[@Dom_Dub]

Before being disrespectful to me in the comments... Please watch this video about 5 Things I LOVE about my C3 kzbin.info/www/bejne/j2etpmyNbKl7gtk

[@sonnycrockett9356]

Your a dumb millenial douche

[@keithbarry001]

That car is a piece of American history, you clown.

[@ronaldknisley9792]

I wish rude people would just learn to be nice!

[@Reggie-The-Dog]

If you don't like negative comments then don't say negative things about a car that a lot of people would do anything to own. Regardless of your other "love" video.

[@Dom_Dub]

@@Reggie-The-Dog I don’t mind negative comments, but disrespectful comments are a different thing... Also, there’s a disclaimer in the caption that people does not seem to read

[@ejayhughes833]

I lived with a C3 as a daily driver for two years, and that's here in the UK with our crazy gas prices, I loved it and I miss it !!!

[@Onidax]

I'm thinking about getting one here in the UK. Daft but obvious question, what sort of MPG you get on it? Above 15 I can live with ha!. Also, any particular issues. I think there are a few specialists here in the UK who will service

[@ejayhughes833]

@@Onidax I didn't really keep check on mpg, but depending how you drive it I would say around 18 from a auto possibly a little more from a manual !!

[@gt-37guy6]

@@Onidax Big Block US cars will average 10 MPG, if it is very high performance, expect more like 6-8 MPG. I Have a 455 Buick and it averages 8 mpg.

[@jayyoung2586]

If you really dislike that car so much, I'll be happy to take it off your hands.

[@Dom_Dub]

You should watch the video that came after this one.. You'll see that I'll probably die in that car.

[@Dom_Dub]

@Tankmaster 160 Feel better now ?

[@v10cylinder]

@Tankmaster 160 I think YOU are the idiot.

[@bobmclaughlin4896]

I agree, I got the same notion.

[@davidgappmayer1526]

I have an ‘82 C3. It was lovingly restored. I get more complements and turn more heads with that 82 than I ever do with my 2016 C7. Owning a car like yours is a labor of love. Cars are meant to be driven, take it out, show it off and enjoy. Be sure to give other Corvette drivers a wave 👋

[@ImTHATguy...]

I'm over 6ft (6ft 3in) and I've got plenty of room in my C3. Was my daily driver for a summer doing 112 miles a day, no issues or complaints here.

[@tylerwyman7430]

Whats the visibility like in the C3s?

[@NoName-up9ed]

@@tylerwyman7430 probably not the best but that’s to be expected from a low sports car

[@pineyLt]

On gas mileage... Dennis Gage host of My Classic Car once asked an owner what his cars mpg was. When told it’s about 8 mpg he grimaced, but the owner followed up with “not bad considering” Dennis said considering what ??? “Considering... I don’t care!” Best answer ever ! 😁

[@stevewheat9030]

So well said 👍

[@jbotnick5361]

Nothing feels like a bigblock! No replacement for displacement my friend ;)

[@fatboysgarage7984]

As much of a pain in the butt as my 74 is, I wouldn't trade it for the world. I've always wanted to have a C3 and getting to rebuild one from the ground up is a dream come true.

[@WORLDDRUMCLUB]

Just picked up a 71 C3 Convertible yesterday. Looking forward to getting her on the road and having these good problems.

[@wraithconscience]

Will watch the "5 Things You Like..." video next. But I was astonished that you asked about what we might like to see. Honestly, how about a series of videos about resolving all these problems? PAINT & BODY: Fiberglass can be repaired (I know, I have a boat). You may have to re-spray the entire car at some point. After 50 years, not a surprise. Or, you can ceramic coat the paint to preserve what's there, or, polish with extremely fine polishing liquid and then clear coat it with 2K clear coat and then ceramic coat it. In other words, do something about it! We have such great technology and great products today. We are very lucky! RATTLES: Rubber and plastics shrink and deform over time. Either they have to be replaced or at least re-conditioned with 303 Protectant or similar rubber/plastic restoratives. Just do it! Bushings, motor mounts, suspension bushings, etc., deteriorate and have to be replaced. I treat all weatherstripping, plastic trim, interior vinyl and even outer tire walls with 303 Protectant about 4 times per year. Result? Many things I thought I'd have to replace are in better shape than when I bought the car and seem to be holding up extremely well. Doors need to be taken apart, the window mechanisms re-adjusted, tightened, replenished with fresh bushings and weatherstripping. It's a labor of love but it doesn't have to be done all at once. PLANNING and BUDGETING: I have a list of projects for each season. Sometimes lots of small things, but they add up. Other times, one big thing per season. One thing at a time. Also, a seasonal budget helps spread out the costs. It's also more enjoyable, knowing you have a plan and that the annoying things will be fixed -- someday soon. PRIORITIES: Setting priorities is a major stress reducer. I focus on SAFETY FIRST -- anything to do with safety (brakes, bearings, etc.) and what I call "RELIABILITY" (belts, filters, gaskets, water pump, fuel pump, electical, etc.) comes a close second. Then, as 3rd priority, I fix "annoying stuff" (squeaks, leaks, visually irritating things, or things I want. For example, I don't have to fix the electric side-mirror motor. I'm the only driver and so I don' t need that function -- why spend $200 on something I can adjust once a year by hand for free?). RESEARCH: Forums help a lot! They will help you set priorities and get stuff done right. For example, one C3 youtuber says, "Just replace the entire wiring harness. Don't mess with a wire here and there. Get a wiring-harness kit and do the whole thing. About $500 for the harness and $XXX for the labor." Smart move! Why live with uncertainty, breakdowns, short circuits, possible fire(!) because of $500? That would not be smart. A wiring-harness kit makes A LOT of sense! PEACE OF MIND AS A GOAL: Think of the peace of mind and driving enjoyment! In the end, it's all about attitude. When I got mine (another make), I just knew that for the first three years or so, I would have seasonal projects. I also knew that each season would be a mix of planned repairs and unexpected repairs. So, no tears, lots of patience, lots of research and planning, and remember this: Such cars are part of the family. It's not a car you're going to fix up just to sell for the highest price. It's a long-term outlook. Choose your projects for the season, set aside your budgets for each season or for the year. Some repairs/upgrades don't have to cost an arm and a leg. If you need to slow down on the costs for a while, choose do-it-yourself projects or lots of little projects. Then, they are done! Other projects will cost an arm and a leg (headgasket, re-build, body-off-frame renovaton). So, plan these for next year or the year after and use the time to save up for it. Finally, USE & ATTITUDE: I drive my "youngtimer" everyday. It has to "earn its living". It has to tow my boat, go on holidays and road trips and doctors appointments and weekly shopping. And strangely, that it must function as a daily driver actually makes things EASIER -- because safety and reliability as well as fun and aesthetics are important EVERY DAY. Somehow, it's much less painful to "just fix it" because I know I will use and enjoy it EVERY DAY. Habits are important! In winter, I rinse the undercarriage with a portable, low-pressure battery operated powerwasher and salt remover (for my boat). It's good exercise and the car still has NO RUST!! Because I do something about it! Don't just fix something and expect it to "last forever". It's the daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly and yearly habits that count the most! Honestly, if the car was "just a weekend driver", I'd hate it. Because I'd (wrongly) expect to just take it out for a Sunday drive with no problems. (Dumb). But, because I've CHOSEN to make it a daily driver that makes daily life FUN FUN FUN, somehow, I get full return on my investment. Think! If I had to maintain a 2nd car, 2nd insurance, 2nd maintenance, 2nd repairs, I'd be spending just as much money (or more) and have twice as many appointments at the mechanic, twice as much paperwork and half the space in my garage. At first, I was worried that I was using this beautiful classic as a daily driver. But it has turned out to be the BEST decision in the end. Why? Like love, having "affairs on the weekend" will just cause you a lot of heartache and a lot of money! Man up! Claim your one true love and stay true! It's all in the attitude.

[@gsk5161]

I had the exact car except it was green. Road like a log wagon, always ran rough, no power steering or windows, no AC. I loved it.

[@ephraimfink9010]

Owner of a 1978 Silver Anniversary. Cars this old, especially if you believe in originality survivorship is what it is. These cars were not Cadillacs. They sit low to the road and you feel the bumps and that’s part of the charm. They were the true two seat American made roadster. Personally I say RIP Corvette 1953-2019 because this 2020 mid engine euro thing is not a vette now.

[@rocket4332]

I completely agree with you about the 2020 corvette but the 78 isn't old. 51 and older is old

[@ephraimfink9010]

@@rocket4332 once a car is over 40 it ain’t young lol

[@houseofno]

@@rocket4332 Most professional mechanics would disagree with you about a '78 not being old. In fact, to most professional mechanics, a C7 is an 'old' (or should I say OLDER) car, and that car didn't leave production until the 2020 C8 came out. That car is going on forty three years old and YES, it is an old car. Nothing wrong with old cars (I own a 750iL ten years younger than your 78). Not everyone wants to see lookalike jellybean crossovers all day long on the freeway. Thanks for breaking up the monotony of everyone needing to have the latest plastic techno-egg.

[@rocket4332]

@@houseofno your obviously sped nobody would call a 2019 car old lmfao dipshit

[@adventures223]

Ya that 2020 sucks looks like crap the front end looks good and thats it it doesn't even remind me of a corvette

[@kenwood7095]

I would be grateful to have that car.

[@jbotnick5361]

I had a 72 bigblock for 18 years, I got it in 1988, sold regrettably 2006, wife got C :( Awesome car ;) Last year I bought a 1987, This year a 1994, I love all Corvettes 🙃

[@bonkeydollocks1879]

I know exactly what you're saying, I bought my dream bike after dreaming about it for 40 years, since I was a kid. If you can see past the issues, maybe overcome the issues then it makes sense, I've had to do lots of work on the bike to make it rideable even though "it has no problems" when I bought it, I'm with you. You have to learn to love it. To answer your question what should you film? See how far you can leave two big thick black rubber lines on the tarmac 👍🏼

[@robadams9523]

I appreciate your video and agree with some of your points. I think the thing to remember is that generally all of the cars we dreamt of having when we were young were great for the times they were in and the use the were meant for. However, today's cars are quieter, more reliable and efficient. In some cases, they extract incredible amounts of power from much smaller engines. And frankly, they drive better. What is important to remember is that the Corvette you own is a part of automotive history. It was the pinnacle of the period when design and performance divisions created cars more so than the production and accounting departments. That C3 was a world class car in it's day and for those who look at it the same way, it still is. I have two Porsches (vintage ) and a 69 Corvette Coupe with a 427, which I absolutely love. Does it drive as well as the Porsche Carrera? Nope. But is it a boulevard beast that gets thumbs up? Absolutely. Drive your car as a time capsule and be thankful you have the opportunity!

[@tonysteppan8495]

How true on all the points you mentioned. One thing that gets overlooked when getting an older car is finding out who locally can-do honest repair work that maybe out of one ability to perform. Or requires equipment or tools that are one-time use that are expensive. I have a 1990 vett that most mechanics now weren't even born yet and don't know what to do about anything Eletronic OBD-1 code reader wise. Let alone a 1971 carbureted vett. They look at you and say we don't work on old stuff like that! Sorry to wine about this subject. It's better to do it myself, but it still amazes me on auto shops anymore. IT took 4 different shops to find one that was upfront and honest. So, asking around at car shows or car clubs is a good thing before jumping on that 50 something year old car.

[@those70sfords90]

I'm 14 and I love these old C3's, these are one of my dream cars, so thank you for warning me about the size, paint, and other stuff, I love old muscle, so it was cool for a walkthrough.

[@Dom_Dub]

Follow your dreams man... That was my dream too as a kid.

[@simplyguitarists4018]

I'm 14 as well and I have one and let me tell you. You are going to love it save up rn as a kid and use it when you are older it is a good car and not to easy to find but there are some out there

[@dragonsKeeper210]

@@simplyguitarists4018 nah, c3’s are abundant, but finding a 60s-1973 is hard out of all C3s. 74-82 is where the rear changes and it’s an “okay” looking rear but it’s nice overall

[@simplyguitarists4018]

@@dragonsKeeper210 yeah I have a 1970 with a 76 front end

[@irabel01]

I fell in love with the car when I was 14 and now own one at 50. And I love it. Now, don’t get me wrong, these are all legit concerns. The cabin is tight, but I like that feel ;-) . The paint is delicate. Absolutely need to be careful. Squeaks. True. But if you care enough, you can hunt them down and get rid of them. Enjoy !

[@maxwmusic8276]

It looks stunning. War bonnet Yellow is also my favorite color for a C3 besides metallic orange. I own a cheap 77 and I absolutely love this car, it's so much fun to drive and especially here in Germany it's something special.

[@julzzcan9490]

Fun and accurate video - I have a 70! 5 - old car - yes it gets old, part of the beauty about it, but inconvenient, unlike a new car that simply starts and goes. 4 - noises - I like it to be fairly quiet, just want to hear the engine, exhaust, and music, everything else gets eliminated. 3 - body and paint - took me a lot of time to get it looking right, compound, polishing, waxing, and maintaining with F11 now. Seldom wash it and avoid water, try to keep it dusted off regularly. 2 - cabin size - yes it's tight, but I like that too, wish I had a bit more elbow room and leg space - fun to drive but difficult to climb in and work on the interior. Having the top off at least gives some headspace. 1 - gas - no complaints here regarding gas, weekends are best. Daily would not be economical, agree. Also be sure to keep it nicely tuned to save some gas, pure fun! Thanks for this rundown, the C3 is impressive in many ways, please keep doing videos!

[@Dom_Dub]

Thanks for your kind words man

[@xxjx3xx48]

it doesn’t matter what you hate. it’s a ‘71 ls6 454 450hp 500ftlb

[@GoodOlRoll]

For '71 the LS6 was rated at 425hp and 475ftlb due to the drop in compression from 11.25:1 to 9.0:1

[@TheTaxreliever]

Great video....I had to stop reading all of the negative comments....I think most of them either NEVER owned a classic, or are straight up missing the point. I ADORE my C3, but at the same time, continually curse it for the reasons you mention above; doesn't make me love it any less. Like you said, LOVE/HATE relationship. Nothing wrong with that. No one is perfect. As much as I love my dog, he can be a royal pain in the A$$ and I complain about him all the time. I'm not going to drop him off at the pound! Damn. Anyways, I agree with you on just about ALL of them and complain constantly: 1) Time getting fixed, vs time enjoying it on the road. The life of a classic car owner! 2) Gas....phew....it can be a sacrifice to dump all that fuel (hope you're using high octane non-ethanol for that old block to burn through - if so, you're cursing louder than normal at fuel costs) 3) Space....damn...cannot bring the kids (ok, no biggy), no luggage, make shift add on for even a cup holder....she's tight in there! 4) Noises - I've actually heard of many attempting to mitigate this by doing upgrades such as sound deadening material, gaskets, etc.....but, yeah, you'll never get rid of the noise and it is not enjoyable, period. I enjoy the experience, which includes the noise, but I'm not jumping up and down for joy because of all that noise for sure! 5) If I'm going to disagree with you on anything, it may be the paint. The lacquer from days of old is actually far more sturdy than current thin coats of paint and tons of clear coat. The tons of lacquer they used back then can really be worked today versus modern day paint correction might need repaints. I've had my C3 professionally corrected and ceramic coated and it looks better than a repaint as it still retains some of the classic lacquer imperfections of the day, but is show quality.

[@ktr831]

Get the 5 Speed. I went from 8 mpg to 14 mpg. Much smoother shifting and its faster now!

[@Dom_Dub]

I can't this car is an all original LS6 car ... I wish i could...

[@GJ-DT]

@@Dom_Dub if you need better milage put taller gears in it

[@sharg0]

@@Dom_Dub So? Just store the original.

[@xxjx3xx48]

Yeah but Muncie rock crusher tho…

[@noahlaque3901]

8mpg is so bad lol

[@stevewheat9030]

I never thought I'd own a C3 but in the early 90s I had an opportunity to buy one super cheap with the idea of a quick flip... I drove the car for awhile and made some modifications and fell in love with it... 30 years have passed and many adventures later I still own it and will never sell it... It's never been a daily driver and I don't think they were ever meant for that duty... This time of year (spring) comes around and I bust her out of the garage for the season and that highly modified small block roars to life it's like being a kid again! The thumbs up and looks I get are many when I drive that car... if everything in life could be this close to perfect it would be heaven.

[@billmcmeekin7909]

Thanks for sharing. I didn't realize how fragile the fiberglass was on the C3. I sat in a friend's 69, and being 6'1, couldn't believe how tight it was. I basically was looking over the t-top, knees around both sides of steering wheel and could hardly breath. The old school dash and cockpit was amazing though. The slope of the hood the little rear window, and feel of the era was awesome! I prefer my 09 Z06 for room in the cabin, but the always C3 looks fast even when parked. I fell in love with Vettes when I was about four, looking at a C3. Told my ma I'd have a Vette one day, and 43 years later, an atomic orange is in the garage. I absolutely love the gold color you have! That's a sharp car fella! Keep enjoying and keep on sharing ehh 🇨🇦

[@theglacier3367]

It isn't as fragile as he says. If you look at high mileage no-hit survivor C2/3s, many of them are free of stress cracks. Poor treatment of the car can result in them.

[@daemonhall6062]

I love my ‘82, in the process of a resto-mod. It’s my daily driver at least in the summer. With a 24 gallon tank it’s easy to spend $100 at the gas station weekly but it’s worth every penny. I got headers and the Y pipes with the open/close switch in the cockpit area and I love that sound of the exhaust flowing right out of my headers underneath my feet. Loud and proud.

[@SC-yx6wr]

Nice to see that you do love your car. I've restored a '71 LT-1 and a '67 L79 and you can go nuts doing incremental rolling restorations and sorting like you did. You need to assume they will need everything, especially if maintenance was not kept current. They need to be done properly, and thoroughly, but once they are finished (a year and many thousand$ later) , they are awesome and have few of the issues you mention.

[@outermostoutermost9418]

I got a 1982 and my brother in law had it and pulled the interior out to replace it and fix some gages and lost interest. So. After 8 years he sold it to me and now iam putting it back together and have a blast doing it I put together a bunch of cars in my life but not a vette it's in great shape was a running driving car so just getting it back right is all .just got to look at it as a bunch of little jobs do one then move on to the next one and so on it easier to look at it that way and u don't get all shot out and give up before you no it it done and down the road lol ...its not about comfort it's about cool 😎...enjoy and don't worry about it..if u have to take a brake but not to long or it will become a work bench with a nice cover on it 😀 happy wrenching buddy

[@chetzler7765]

Ive had a 69 convertible for 42 years and I agree with everything you said. But get in with top down and turn the key and all that stuff fades away. I've built up the L36 in mine so MPG is out the window. I don't drive far from home anyway. You forgot to mention the storage area for an overnight bag! Nice car, don't let it get to ya.

[@Dom_Dub]

Mine got almost zero rattles once the roof is off... And i refer to MPG as smiles per gallons ;)

[@chetzler7765]

Dom Dub you can see me abusing the tires on my page. Search CHetzler. Got a couple videos. Mine is quiet to without hardtop but sounds like an old truck with it on. Fun per gallon is what I say!

[@318overwatch9]

Son, it's a Corvette. It's not meant to be cheap, economical, or quiet and plush. It is an American icon, that was meant to say hello world, I'm gonna eat your lunch. The paint and body are coming on to 50, she's gonna have a few wrinkles. Even at 50, she will STILL eat a lot of lunches. Park it, drive occasionally and enjoy what you have there, it's rare.

[@jimbowred1983]

Watched both your videos. Very informative. That car is a gem especially where you live. Ignore the haters.

[@Dom_Dub]

Thanks brother … finally someone who watched both 😅

[@bobgoble2228]

I have had many C3's over the years including a brand new 78 and a new 79 both L 82 cars. Loved every one I owned. I now have a C 4. As far as gas mileage goes, my 1970 numbers matching Challenger R/T 440 six pack car 4 speed 354 Dana car gulps gas like a funnel. I would be better off using Gallons per foot instead of miles especially when I kick down and it delivers 1350 CFM's . You can see the fuel gauge move.

[@77chevy4x4]

Oh yes old man had a 451 six pack From grand Spaulding Dodge.. And when the gas crisis hit … And they changed fuels Pops said the beast was never the same again. $5 dollar limit. They said it got annoying waiting for fuel .

[@ceedoubleyou]

yea, most things you have disliked about your Corvette, applies to most classic cars, when I bought my '68 Cougar, 8.5yrs ago, I was going to give it a paint job, because, it's a 20 footer, but I do drive it 2-3 times month and it looks ok, when it's moving and in photos, so I keep putting it off, but the wind roar on the motorway/freeway is deafening, because all the door rubbers have gone hard and wander at freeway/motorway speed,(even after a wheel alignment), mean endless corrections of the wheel. Minor repairs are a constant and replacement of old tyres are a must.

[@c3dk]

I have EFI in my 69 Corvette, it works great, try and look into it.

[@simplyguitarists4018]

I'm 14, and I'm glad that I have a c3 1970 corvette with a 350 engine and has a soft top convertible I'm extremely grateful it need work here and there but it runs

[@NoName-up9ed]

How’d you get it?

[@jimh.5286]

Regarding problem no. 5, leaks, my C3 taught me that the car's claim to fame is leaking brake calipers.

[@Dom_Dub]

Yeah I had those rebuilt.. the car has been sitting in a garage from 1977 to 2017... But still, alot of C3's have this problem

[@sidefx996]

I daily drove my '72 for @10 years. Yours is a beautiful car by the way. Most of this stuff is kinda "Captain Obvious" stuff to most people that goes with driving any 50 year old car. When it's all you know (it was actually my first car) it's not so bad. Once you get used to something newer it way worse haha, even if they car is in perfect shape (mine was far from it). Honestly I drove the hell out of mine again for @10 years and it was actually super reliable. Again like any old car old brakes were always annoying and when you get tired of bleeding them every weekend you finally rebuild everything with new and move on with your life. Had an alternator go once like any other car. And finally I had the driver side bolt for the leaf spring pull through the trailing arm (it was originally a northern car and had some rust). I simply jacked the car up, bolted it back up in the top hole and drove home lol. Otherwise once again it was actually a super reliable car. Under 10 mpg got old after awhile lol. Convertible top leaked. Was unbearably hot in the summer and froze to death in the winter. It was loud (you had to yell back and forth to your passenger) and I'd always smell like the tailpipes and gasoline any time I drove it. Looks like a naked models body with a sheet draped over it. When I was a little kid I used to shift the gears from the passenger seat when my dad would push in the clutch and though I've been asked more times than I can remember to sell it going back to high school it's not for sale and I'll be getting buried in it when my time comes...

[@markbaker8004]

A beautiful piece of history. I don’t mind any of your 5 dislikes. My ‘73 coupe has them, but it is 47 yo. It isn’t my daily driver. Enjoy the drive!

[@truebetold65]

73 is uniquely gorgeous 🇺🇸👍

[@britbritcritict2512]

I have an 1980 here in texas I got for $17k and 60 k millages now it has 130k and still flying like a closed. Automatic I do regular maintenance so it's kept in shape and yes it's my daily driver. Love the horse power it has. Just a really good car. But this year is really nice too and gold just nice!!!!

[@cpoyet4107]

Good info! Thanks... I'll be interested on some advice regarding all these too many configuration for a potential buyer... All what you like about C3 of course...

[@Nobamaable]

I love my 71 Vette... the cabin is plenty comfortable with t-tops and I'm 6'1 205 lbs. My 2016 Camaro SS has more of a claustrophobic feel than my Vette. Putting gas is money down the drain? No way... it's fun to burn gas in this car!

[@stevewheat9030]

lol fossil ⛽️ fuels are yummy... C3 are so much fun 😁

[@stevendrumm1677]

Dude, you have the coolest car in the world, bar none.

[@truebetold65]

Totally agree 👍

[@mikechalette886]

Love my 77 nothing on the road now a days like it 👍👍

[@alexanderspenser4960]

Great C3, 454, 2 tops, 4spd, vinyl top! Have a '73, L82, AC, 4spg, convertible, tilt-tele, and I'm doing the same thing, brakes, suspension and someday paint. Seats are the worst.

[@1972Ray]

I have a beautiful 72, Steel Cities Gray new paint with a nice clearcoat. The T-tops will squeak unless you keep them greased up. I use grease on the tops, and the door catches and latches, do it maybe 3 times a season. Maybe your top could use the same? We're blessed with good country roads, because as you say, these cars don't do rough roads. Most old vettes leak in some way, thats the reality. Up until the late 70's GM intended a 10 year lifespan for the c3, you can tell by the cardboard door panels. For me, what I don't like is the fear of damage to the car.

[@Harthaley]

I've been shopping for a C3, what years would you suggest I really look at? Thanks Dan

[@westhavenor9513]

I'm not normally a C3 fan, but that car is beautiful! Glad you are keeping it in your family. But the red shoes must go, really :)

[@johnleinen9409]

You can apply Silglide to the top and door seals and this will help eliminate squeaks.

[@danmyers9372]

Was really surprised you didn’t mention the ride. C3’s are notorious for having a very harsh, rough ride. The issue was the chassis had way too much flex (causing the creaks and paint cracking) to handle like the sports car Chevy wanted it to be to compete with true sports cars. To compensate for the non rigidity of the chassis Chevy out in doings that were way too stiff for normal street driving. That said the C3 is still a very cool looking iconic American classic car.

[@danmyers9372]

*Chevy put in SPRINGS...

[@truebetold65]

Agree with you 🇺🇸👍

[@davidmacphee3549]

Great Work! I subscribed

[@matsblom7314]

A new car gets old too The new cars they make today will never last as long as your corvette

[@Dom_Dub]

True!

[@SuperSpud69]

That model year, in that paint job, with that top, with that engine is literally my dream car. I would love to own one some day.

[@Dom_Dub]

I wish you one man... Everything is possible !

[@steves9905]

is that a factory gold car with a green interior? that's amazing! i read in the comments where you said its an LS6...if that's so, then this is doubly amazing. I have a '74 L82 coupe and pretty much everything you said is true, although its more than made up by the joy in owning and driving a good-looking performance classic sports car

[@johnvalentine3456]

You talked yourself out of hating these 5 things by the end! No wonder, if that's an original paint survivor, it's truly a sweet ride. Don't worry about the patina, that is the character of your car...tells a story. Restored Corvettes are a dime a dozen. Survivors, not so.

[@markmartin5765]

I am a PROUD owner of a 71 454 4 speed convertible, and I knew there will be some things that are not perfect, but when you have the best designed and one of the best performing cars ever ,of it’s time , you forget the small stuff! Get over it

[@paulmoss7940]

Since I knew a little about C3 cars,my buddy enlisted my help when he was shopping for one.I found him a high option red/ red 74 454 auto with low miles unrestored. A couple small flaws,but a great birdcage and under shelter all its life. We bought it almost three years ago for 16,300. I think its about a 24k car. Thoughts?

[@dwightc3080]

Had a 72 sun flower yellow, yes it had minor imperfections, but loved working on it and had no complaints about it what so ever. Wish I still had it.

[@dumpgodby1874]

That is my dream Corvette. I was born in 1971. My first car I drove was a Corvetter.love your car man

[@Dom_Dub]

I wish you one man... Theyre incredible!

[@thomasmcgovern6773]

Hey dom what camera and lens did you use for this video?

[@Dom_Dub]

Canon 5D Mk3 with 70-200 F2.8II is and a Sony @6500 with a 16-70mm

[@deebee68]

Is there a list of mods to eliminate the cracks and squeaks or is it something you have to live with?

[@mimicnutria18]

Lets be honest its a racecar its not ment to be quiet, or get good gas mileage. Your supposed to drive it for fun. You should be lucky it sat for so long mine sat 15 years and all the paint was ruined along with the birdcage rotting out. I was told so many times to give up and get a newer car but i forged on. Im 16000$ into it and its no where near done. I cant wait to have mine in as good condition as that car right there. Much love from a fellow c3 owner!

[@billreinhart5495]

The car is cool as hell! Love it.

[@VexChoccyMilk]

I think maybe a way to save from cracking the fibreglass further besides not driving it is to totally strip off the paint and sandwich the body in new fibreglass. Then sand and new paint.

[@Dom_Dub]

I ain't brave enough to strip this old lacquer paint off the car... One day maybe.

[@chickenjo23]

I hate my old vette because it's old. Thanks. I needed a laugh.

[@zone47]

I had a 70 with the 350-3504 speed but a hard top. It was one of the most rattlely car that I've ever owned. The dash was rusted up by the windshield, so that was loose and just a fiberglass body is flexy. It's just the nature of old GM cars... and any old car, Ford and Mopar. They are loose fit and finish and they rattle mainly because all the rubber is dried up.

[@joevette6294]

Summer is coming Dom! hopefully we will get to see that car at some car show!! my friends have never seen an LS-6 in person!!!👍

[@JerryPH]

Hey just caught your channel. I live in the Montreal area too and drive an ‘04 Z06. If you ever want to meet up, let me know.

[@johnnypk1963]

I just love the styling of your car and that color combo. She’s a beaut!

[@Dom_Dub]

Thanks man

[@johnnypk1963]

@@Dom_Dub those ol’ girls r never perfect...but we love ‘em all the same. Wives just don’t always understand that. Best!

[@tomnekuda3818]

Every 'Vette I've ever been in rattles, squeaks, and buzzes. I've not been in the newest ones, tho. Do the shifters still buzz? I always hated the long throw shifter.

[@MisterMikeTexas]

Oh! Canada, eh? Well, enjoy that 'Vette, and Good Day!

[@aboutmyfathersbusiness8324]

Actually one issue on mine; I installed a Gymkhana FE7 suspension. Great for racing but will rattle you if you cruise alot...

[@lewishamilton9046]

I have a1969 Corvette 427

[@peterl4614]

You may want to replace all of the hardtop weatherstripping; it may help with the creaks and rattles.Edit: Is it code 423 green interior?

[@Dom_Dub]

Yes it is.

[@peterl4614]

@@Dom_Dub It is very close to my 70 interior. I think 422

[@Yankeededandy62]

Very unusual color combination. It works though, looks great. The things you hate/dislike are kind of understandable whereas only 2 apply as C3-specific downsides: The cracking fiberglass body and the cramped inside. The others are a bit generic, aren't they? I've been driving our 69 convertible for 10 years now and still love it to death, but I could think of a few other C3 downsides: How about the lack of space for decent luggage? If you ever had to scramble for an umbrella behind the seats, you know what I mean. I used to think C3 Corvettes are like any other musclecar and no problem to work on. Until you get to the superior but also painful to fix rear end with its independent suspension and puny parking brake. If you ever had to take off uphill at a cross section in San Francisco in a manual gear Corvette, you will curse the parking break. All these things are forgotten though, once you sit in the drivers seat and have winding mountain roads in front of your endless hood and fenders. The low point of gravity, the (for its time) superb disc brakes and handling make it pure joy to drive. Having a high reving small block and manual trans, the convertible doesn't feel mushy at all.

[@Dom_Dub]

Well, i'm used to sports car so luggage space ain't really a problem for me. Also, i would'nt travel with this car ... The things that really bothers me the most is the cracking.... The suspension is extremly harsh for an old car even with the thick tire profile... But like yous said, I also love this car to death... While filming this video, I was feeling bad that I would upload the 5 things i love video a week later because I love way too many things about it.

[@Yankeededandy62]

@@Dom_Dub I hear you. I just realized, you're talking about a LS6. The last of the great Corvette Big Blocks. I would keep it as original as possible, too. I'm more fixated on luggage because (believe it or not), my wife and I take it for roadtrips all over Europe and the US. Luggae is even stored in the spare tire holder. But hey, it works and nothing like driving a few thousand miles over 1 week or 2 to get to know your car.

[@HoosierRooster]

It is not an unusual combination I have seen numerous or by yellow cars with black tops black interior actually very popular and one of my favorites

[@Yankeededandy62]

@@HoosierRooster Watch it again: The car has a green interior, not black.

[@CorvettesandCassicCars-mw6me]

We all have love and hate. I feel you. I have a 1975 L82 4- 4-speed Convertible, yes old car has its quirks Great video idea. I subscribed to your channel

[@user-xu2gy2lc6w]

I have a 79 L83 and I'm loving it.

[@v10cylinder]

Hi again Dom Dub, I wrote to you 9 months ago (see further below). Seven months ago, I bought a 1971 C3 454 with manual gear shift. It also hasn't AC and the interior is green, just like yours. Exterior is Brands Hatch Green. What a wonderful car! Alone, the dash panel has a crack starting from the lower right edge of the speedometer towards the steering column. Now, I am searching for an original dash panel in the original green color. I am from Germany and it's impossible to it find here. Grateful if you (or other readers) have any idea where I could find one? Thank you very much! Best regards, Stefan

[@Dom_Dub]

Congrats man! green on green looks soooo good

[@v10cylinder]

@@Dom_Dub Yes it does, thank you! So, where do you get your spare parts from? Any good shop you could recommend? Many thanks, Stefan

[@slick5154]

What is the name of the color? Love to see a driving video, and how it looks in everyday traffic next to modern cars.

[@Dom_Dub]

The color is called Warbonnet yellow. Look my latest video, there's some driving videos.

[@papamike9866]

I had a 1968 coupe (and a 1981) and the one thing I hated the most was the vacuum operated headlights (and in 68 the windshield wiper panel). It would always leak/fail. One headlight pops up and the other has droopy eye or doesn't open at all. Should have stuck with electric motors like 1963-67.

[@houseofno]

A popular swap is to modify the headlights to use the 1982 to 1992 F-Body Firebird headlight motors. Vacuum leaks are NO fun.

[@v10cylinder]

Hi Dom, thanks for the great video. Your next video should be about the things you like about your Corvette. Btw., does it have A/C? Best regards, Stefan

[@Dom_Dub]

This video is already filmed... I will upload it soon.. No this car was spec'ed as a light track car... I have electric windows though but no tilt steering.

[@jarrettslee1]

it looks like an non-ac car. Time Stamp: 4:00 AND 7:20

[@Dom_Dub]

@@jarrettslee1 you're right... no AC

[@jameshuban6515]

Hi. I may be wrong but the LS6 cars didn't come with A/C. My brother had a 72 454, convertible. It had A/C but it was a LS5 car. No slouch but not the LS6. His had the CSS block. Which was a 2 bolt main block. The LS6 was a 4 bolt main block. One of my complaints was the radiator overflow tank. It was a pain to add fluid. (we used to disconnect the radiator return hose). The car always overheated. ( Maybe because my brother removed the fan shroud? :) It was a beast! I loved the way she would squat when you put it in gear or open it up. That 454 on the power bulge hood were mystic. You knew you had one of the baddest cars on the street. It was a high school kid's dream. Unfortunately my sister in law overheated it while taking the kids to the park. We knew we had a problem after the second gallon of water disappeared and the oil looked like a milkshake. When we removed the valve cover we found 2 push rods protruding through what was left of the rocker arms. The killer was the golf ball size holes in the block where the lifters used to be. The park. Yeah, right. I wish I could find that car. It's the closest I'll ever get to being 17 again.

[@pistonkingenterprises1972]

I want a c3 but I dont know which year is best? Like some have different features that others dont, or certain engine components. Im just not sure which to get. Any help?

[@Dom_Dub]

I'd say chrome bumpers C3's are the best in every way but a bit more expensive compared to the 74 and up

[@pistonkingenterprises1972]

@@Dom_Dub yeah im thinking about gettin a 1978 through 1982, I don't care for specific years body modifications I can slap that nice chrome bumper on with any c3

[@pistonkingenterprises1972]

@@Dom_Dub Im looking for the best one in terms of features, interior layouts, performance wise, etc

[@Dom_Dub]

Piston King Enterprises performance wise, the older vettes are much better 68-72... and you cant slap chrome bumpers on newer c3’s ... I’d say any c3 are good buys but you need to check the birdcage for any rust and the floorboards on 74-5 and up they are metal instead of fiberglass

[@pistonkingenterprises1972]

@@Dom_Dub alright thanks i'll do more research on them. I mean make a custom chrome bumper to fit the car.

[@tylerwyman7430]

What's the visibility on the C3s? Any thoughts from owners?

[@Dom_Dub]

It's pretty good... except with the softtop on

[@RadggsAutomotive]

Frankly, those days of a daily driver are long gone and as a C3 convertible lover of which I owned two L82, 4Spds. You are 💯% correct and more so with that beast of a 454. That weight is not fun compared to the 350s. I remember how those BB shifted the handling in braking and in hard cornering. That's a lot of weight, and today there's new technology to make the ride sweeter. Enjoy what is a uniquely optioned rare Vette. I goes to rework the calipers on my 73 love/hate affair.

[@MikeBrown-ex9nh]

I had an 81 Corvette and regretted buying it. It also was a cramped eggshell with cracks. The 79 trans am I had before that was more comfortable, but had a lot of quality issues.

[@dinosworkshop6870]

No matter what year corvette you own, you own a legend. Just deal with the sqeeks and leaks of oil. Try to replace all parts with oem componets. Give your car an upgrade paint job and love the fact you own a vette.

[@jimbuono2404]

My 74 Vette Coupe. Automatic, 350. Slow. Plenty of room inside. Not noisy at all. Decent gas mileage. Corvette/Buick

[@kalleklp7291]

Well, 7,4 l V8 is thirsty as hell. One thing I would mention is the vacuum system on it. There are countless vacuum pods and hoses just to flip the headlights and they tend to get porous or break. Yeah, an old car..well..it is what it is and one got to remember most things are 50 years old on this baby. Anyway, you got yourself a beauty there. :) A teardown and new gaskets in all the critical places will vastly negate all the small problems with leaks, etc.

[@bleuShoErn]

I bought my 71 when it was 2 years old and it was showroom new. Of every vehicle I've owned it has been the poorest quality. The one thing that aggravated me the most was the terrible clear coat finish. All and all though, it is a pure bred Corvette and in spite of all the little annoying things I've had to deal with, I still enjoy driving it. Don't know that St. Louis took the pride in the car like Bowling Green has.

[@bobbybeck1308]

don't think they used clear coat in 1971, jus sayin......

[@bleuShoErn]

Bobby Beck After all these years of being told it was the clear coat, seems you're correct it seems it was the lacquer that was terrible. One positive of that generation that I hated in my C-4 was the use of cheap plastic, faulty electronics and bad leather.

[@jo-anncampeau4831]

Hey good video Dom You couldve talked about the non- tilt steering LOL We talked about that last time I saw you. I'm rebuilding my C3 a 72 Coupe 454 4 spd, I saw your car up close in Laval and loved it. I'm old enough to remember when those cars were new, and yeah they were a pain in the rear sometimes with the leaks , heat soaked starters, bad, real bad handling, the points ignition, I could go on and on ... But remember, I dont think GM tought those cars were going to last 50 years and gas price didnt matter at that time.. But if you go to another fiberglass route, like a boat, gas will be a bigger issue.

[@Dom_Dub]

Yeah I remember meeting you... How's the restoration going ?

[@jo-anncampeau4831]

@@Dom_Dub pretty good now that I have lots of time to rebuild, I leave lots of pics and comments on vette builds and vette projects etc

[@Yankeededandy62]

I beg to differ: Unless you compare the handling with a 50 year younger car, the handling is actually very good and it runs rings around any musclecar of the era. Tight steering, the rearend sticks to the tarmac even when there are tons of potholes. But one thing is true: It can also be really bad. C3s (and C2s) are very unforgiving, if you don't give them lot's of tender loving care. It takes only a slightly loose steering box, lightly worn out side yokes in the differential and you got yourself a drunk dancer. Add hidden rust on your frame and that was it with good handling.

[@tommissouri4871]

#5 - Yes, that is true, no old car is like any new car. They aren't bad, but we have been spoiled by cars that never leak, you climb in and drive, and in 6000 miles, you drop it at the dealer for its 6000 mile check. Of course, any car that sat for years is going to have problems. Two fixes: 1. pull everything apart and restore the car, or 2. keep an eye on everything and fix them as they break/you get to it. #4 - Corvettes have always been noisy. The fiberglass echos like a bass drum. You can tighten them some but not completely. If yours is rattling more with the hardtop, you need to have a good check done on the frame. Normally the hardtop tightens the car much more, takes a lot of flex out, and eliminates many rattles. Do you have your hardtop bolted down in the four points in the rear? Two long studs through the deck should have nuts on the inside tightened against the deck clamps. Two forward brackets should be bolted. Also, is your deck lid tight to the body? Weatherstripping good, hinges adjusted correctly, and the deck releases adjusted to hold it down tight? #3 - That paint crack you show in the middle of the fender is abnormal. Looks like your car has been repainted once long ago. Stress cracks around the corners of the hood opening are typical. It comes from driving cold body cars on rough roads. Face it, lacquer paint was the norm and no one expected it to last 10 years, let alone 50. GM wanted you to trade cars every couple of years. Also, fiberglass flexes, so paint will crack with use. #2 - It's a sports car, not a station wagon. Of course, it is small. As to t-tops, that is smaller in area than the convertible. The convertible top has the most room, the hardtop takes some due to the thickness of the top, and the t-top is worse with out the bar and top panels connect to the car. The idea is you should be snug so that you aren't sliding all around when running fast through the curves or on a race track. #1 - Gas mileage is due to how these were designed and how they use gas. Gas was cheap back then, and power was more the issue. Your '71 was the first of the low compression cars at 9:1 compression, which was terrible for power and didn't utilize the gasoline efficiently. Plus, gas quality is much lower today than back then. In the late '70s, I could get 18-19 mpg with my Corvette. The exact same car today is lucky when it gets 12, and typically gets around 10 mpg. 25,000 additional miles between those years didn't make the engine worn out to be bad on gas. It is the quality of the gas. If you want better, buy one of the aftermarket electronic fuel injection systems and replace your carb. Or buy a newer Corvette. But don't gripe too much, as your low compression 454 should run on 89 octane and you net have to buy 93 octane. You could also buy a Tremec 5 speed with overdrive and improve gas mileage. Of course, EFI and the Tremec are not part of the original character and then it isn't the same car at all.

[@marcs990]

Beautiful car n great colour.

[@MisterMikeTexas]

For "old paint" that looks pretty good!

[@user-gy7hf3kt7v]

THAT'S A BEAUTIFUL RIDE !!!!!!!!!!

[@robertbarwick6197]

I have a C3 (76) and "Stress Cracks" are just part of the game of corvette. I also have the " Love & Hate" affair with my car, but over the years I've updated alot of the parts ( way to many to list) just so I have peace of mind knowing the car will not break down. I was once told that if your gonna own an old corvette be sure that you've got a " corvette fund"😂

[@davidleach1592]

We all know the plus points about the C3 but good to know those warts too - Thanks!

[@victorvillasana3409]

If you knew how much we envy you. 😊

[@dinoa9608]

I've owned a '72 C3 Corvette convertible 4 speed for 30 years now. These C3 chrome bumper cars just get better looking as time goes by. You have to remember in 1968 this was a very flambouyant designwhen it debuted that just must have wowed people. But I cannot disagree, the car is not the most practical and comfortable car. It's tight inside, hot especially with headers, some rattles, you feel low to the ground, and very limited luggage space. But drives great (drive another car from the same era, and the Corvette is far superior) and is like automotive art standing still. No plans to sell mine. Dom, you may want to show some of the unique type of mechanical features. Vacuum system that operates the headlights, wiper door plus HVAC. Extra wiring for grounds (it is a plastic car). parking brake is a small drum brake inside the rear rotors. Lack of safety equipment - look inside the doors (nothing there), the bumpers that can't take any impact. Battery location. Spare tire location. Operation of soft top and decklid, ETC.

[@angelo_giachetti]

How cabin heat from the engine and exhaust? My right leg roasts while my right arm and face freeze from ac.

[@Dom_Dub]

This car wasn’t optioned with ac but other than that, it gets boiling hot inside

[@rocket4332]

You shouldn't hate anything about it you should love everything about it

[@p51ferg]

This fella is a real salesman. Best thing about my vette is that it is old and i can still find parts. Warranty lol. I dont mind when theres an issue because it gives me a chance to work on it😁👍🏻

[@Dom_Dub]

Well it's a average anwser... In reality this exact vette is fixed only with N.O.S. parts which is a pain in the butt to find... but it's the only way to keep its value high.

[@Sherman62]

That is a beautiful original car. You've done right by it and are realistic about what it is. Comparing it to modern cars mechanically would be unfair, then again it has style that few modern cars can match. Some of the "features" of the C3 were more gimmick than sound engineering, but the STYLE is 100% real.