Ten Rules For Buying Your First C3 Corvette

[@gooney0]

I've had a 72 coupe for 20 years now. Here are a few thoughts: 1) Check birdcage and frame. I've seen 2 really nice cars get parted out due to rust. Huge loss. 2) Be patient and save up for the car you really want. But... 3) Some cars are worth more. This is both good and bad. A less valuable car could be much nicer for less money. I bought a 72 small block for this reason. It's a chrome bumper car, but the horse power is a bit lower than earlier years. It's value is also lower which means I could afford to buy it. I later swapped the 200hp 350 for a ZZ4 350 anyway. 4) Paint, body and interior are more expensive to fix than mechanics. A pretty car that won't start is a better buy than an ugly car that runs great. 5) Learn the typical flaws of the years you want to buy. On early cars the clock is not going to work. On latter cars, the bumpers will likely be wavy or warped. I have yet to see a car with a working factory alarm besides mine. 6) Buy the nicest car you can. Spend now, or spend much more latter on.

[@daveactual6953]

Gasdon Flag where did you buy your c3. i was looking to buy one that would need a retoration. any tips?

[@gotdamnjimi9758]

These are some good tips thank you.

[@markbaker8004]

Ben, thanks. I watched your video as part of my C3 search. Great aid! I bought a base model ‘73 350 L48 4 spd “survivor”: 69000 mi, numbers matching, ps, pb. No rain in 44 years. No snow ever (Ontario, Canada). No rust except surface oxidizing on exposed metal. I followed your guide when inspecting. Thanks again.

[@edstingray3828]

I've owned THE ONE 40 years. 1972. Millie Magile Red on Red base 200hp. Coupe, auto, transmission, A/C. Been thur it once and starting again. I saw my first 1968 in 1968 from a school bus, I was 15. I never saw a c1 or c2. Great video.

[@GetsumJ]

I appreciate the video, and I like seeing younger people appreciate the old muscle cars, especially the corvette. If you don't mind, let me add a couple of pointers for people wanting "Project Vettes". (1) - If you are looking for a budget builder, stick to a Mustang or Camaro. Vettes are not cheap to restore. (2) - You mentioned "Decide if you want a Steel Bumper or Fiberglass". Steel bumper C3 Corvettes were made from 68 -72 (73 had a steel rear). 74-82 are known as the rubber bumpers. As a project car, I can promise you that you probably can't afford a Steel Bumper. They are all collector items, and worth a lot of money just based on the VIN number. The 74-76 are the "Flat Glass" cars and many people like these. But don't expect Corvette power because these are the detuned years. The least expensive and lowest value are the 77-79 C3s. Currently no one considers these to ever be collectors. 80-82 are considered by many to be the best looking because of the "Shovel Nose". But they can be found. In the end, the 76 is considered the "Last Stingray" and that carries some weight in the market. Learn your RPO's, and terms like L48,L82, and LT-1. The C3 corvette is a beautiful machine. It is sexy, a great eye catcher, and great to pull up at car shows in. If you are looking to take it out and show up some later mustangs or Camaros, Don't waste your time. A Ford Focus ST will eat your lunch, and todays LS platforms are 4-5 times more powerful than these older Vettes. But I will say... Getting a CS, invest in a cheap intake and cam, followed by some real sidepipes.... you don't have to be fast. People will fear you based on looks and sound alone. Thanks for posting this video. I am 53' years old and have lost count on how many cars I have restored. I am actually looking for an 80-82 Vette right now after selling the 85' IROCZ (pic) I just completed. Side - not - I paid 3k for the IROC, cleaned it up, tuned it, sunk $1300.00 worth of Willwood and Hotchkis parts in it. I sold it for $9500.00. (Mainly because 85 TPI cars are the only REAL IROCS ever made)

[@TheCorvetteBen]

GetsumJ Some very good points! Thanks for watching!

[@BOTmaster15]

Times are changeing. 77-79 those are collectors cars. Maybe not in US, but Europe are buying more and more classic muscle. Half a year ago, you could buy late restorable condition C3 for around 3-6K. Now if you don't have at least 5-6, you can forget it.

[@GetsumJ]

Thanks BOT. I can't help but wonder if a market will ever exist for the C4.

[@BOTmaster15]

Not yet, but in few years who knows? Here in EU we don't have american muscle cars. So far I saw 3 C4 with my eyes, in my life. In my country there are no more than 100 of C3/C4, models and probably less than 20 of C2. It may sounds fun, but there are even less people that know how to repair/restore those cars. How much do you have to pay for C3 in good condition? (76' and up). If I think correctly it would be around 15-20k. In my place for 78' I would have to pay around 28-29k.

[@1DEADBEEF1]

BOTmaster15 you can get a nice late c3 runs and drives for 6k dollars (paint will be old it might have an electrical problem or something minor)

[@meninblu3]

I’ve had an 82 vette for a while now. Low engine power didn’t bother me because of how cheap the owner sold it for. When we showed up the car was in the guys garage and was fine. We took it for a drive and everything seemed alright. What really bothered me though, was the fact that one of the previous owners, or the one we got it from, had just filled in the chipped off paint with a red sharpie. What a joke... still restoring it though. Dash was cracked, tires are very old, weather stripping was dry rotted, but I expected that from an almost 40 year old car. I still love it to death though. Planning on ls-swapping in the future, but for now she’s just a weekend car. All that’s left is new tires and a new victory red paint job and she’s ready to rock and roll. I love seeing other people’s love for c3s. The community is so great and full of amazing people. I’m only 21 but it’s amazing to see older guys and younger still enjoying the cars and being able to come together over them!

[@bicycle697]

Ben, I restored my 72 a few years ago. I agree with all your points, I did some research before buying mine and it was well worth it. Now I am thinking of pulling the motor and fixing a few leaks and just giving the 350 a good once over. Thanks for your video's!!

[@djmaya3d]

Hey Ben, I gotta say this is an EXCELENT video regardless of minor volume normalisation issues. I am actually bookmarking it so i can send it to all the people that ask about my 77 and how to get one.

[@patriotrising6214]

On my bucket list , right at the top #1 on the list ! Enjoyed video and learned something from it . While shopping for my Vette I have found that 90% are major projects on wheels , priced like museum Peace's ! Shopping for Vette is an education in details and history ! So thanks for information and Cruze on Vette lovers !

[@allencales9271]

coming back to this video because a few years ago I decided I was going to buy a C3, watched this video, heard the advice to buy the one you want, bought a great '77 show car,.... and now want to trade it for a convertible, just like I knew in the back of my mind at the time. BUY THE ONE YOU WANT :)

[@JohnnyThrobber]

Very intelligent young man for sure! I really enjoyed the video and I appreciate the time and effort he and his girl put into it. Beautiful Corvette too by the way! Thank you for all your hard work!

[@doppelganger2531]

thanks for the info in this bro, really. almost bought a basketcase 77 C3 with birdcage issues you probably saved me thousands

[@Baron_Harkonnen]

I actually didn't get to see this video before I bought my vette but I've been watching your channel for a while now and have learned a lot. I'm glad I did get the c3 I have because judging by all your videos of you working on old ones it's in great shape!

[@mimik6674]

Nice job,had many c-2 and c-3 vettes back in the70s and 80s . I recently retired and decided it was time so i picked up a nice 72 and i am having a great time reliving my youth. thanks,picked up some new tips from the video.

[@guyantonelli5411]

I stumbled across this video and I found it very informative. I am no stranger to buying and restoring 68-72 GM muscle cars and I know their downfalls, but I am now getting interested in a buying a corvette. the bird cage tip alone was worth the time to watch this. Good advice as well regarding deciding up front if you want a hard top, 4speed, auto, etc, versus just wanting a corvette. Audio was rough, but still a good watch.

[@Supermankev2001]

I just bought a 1975 convertible 4speed L82 with very low miles Red with Red Leather White top. A ton of good info in this video Good Job

[@studio-flash]

This guy is only young, but he knows his stuff and the points he makes make sense. I'd love a 1969 C3 Corvette coupe, black on black my dream car...but i ain't got the money....maybe one day!

[@barryhill1044]

The best Advisory Video I’ve ever seen. Thanks,

[@michaelstratton6701]

I bought a 1980 ,without this info, but had a Corvette pro inspect it ( after I bought) but luckily he pointed out important issues, but passed his inspection, shewww,but ben your videos are very helpful thanx, I refer other Corvette owners to you

[@davidmcmenamin9701]

Great video describing what to look for when buying a Corvette.

[@LarsAnders54]

Sound advice there, Young Man. Thank You!

[@22marx22]

Thank you. Im looking at a 74 convertible this week and feel better prepared

[@safetymichael9388]

Great Video, sold my C3 vetted because of the amount of work it did need. All original numbers matching but frame was out of my control and at the time the car was way to much work for me. But now wish I did have the car as it was my first Corvette and should have kept it just for that reason.

[@brantmartin4469]

Rule #1: AKA the 'Corvette Tax'. I have a 72 Stingray and I know all about it. Cheers for the vid!

[@Guitarmanjhc1]

can't hardly hear you on this video.

[@leethadmitchell1996]

Thank you for posting a vehicle that allows for transparency . Buying a used vehicle is always a gamble and buying a classic/vintage vehicle is even more so. But here is the reality...Desireable classic cars will always sell regardless of blown engine or missing tranny. Buyers just need to know EXACTLY what is wrong with the car. The problem always in dealing with cars in the 'unknown'...but instead of hiding defects to make a sell ...try being honest and make a sell. Some people are in a position to replace the entire drive train and some are not. Point is for anyone selling a car private or dealer JUST BE UPFRONT about everything that you know about the vehicle you are selling and leave it there. Someone will buy it and then you'll also have made a friend because they know exactly what they are getting in to. From there you won't be receiving nasty phone calls or emails you'll get friendly updates on how they are rebuilding the vehicle. Blessings to all...Honesty just work best guys. Thanks again for your detailed video.

[@streetstock72]

Thanks Ben great tips but there is also those of us that have had our Corvettes since new,no accidents etc but driving year round until 92 and just did a frame on Restoration because removing the body from the frame would of killed the project but we just drive it in summer on sunny days,yes it will stay in family and they know the history,wifes vette early 79 L48 but recent rebuild kept block but smelted heads,kept trans with rebuild,completely redid brakes cooling exhaust and then discovered rear end issue,will have friend drop rear end and go through were trailing arms meet frame repair that as l get rear end rebuilt.l love your videos and thanks for putting out great tips! You do great work!

[@marccaruso9789]

Thx Ben.... good video...I just bought a '70 Vette coupe.....its not perfect but it's all there and a numbers matching car....part of the fun is going to be fixed the things that need a little work

[@TheDutchTexan]

10 rules... I'd like to think I only need to follow one if I where ever to get a c3. Take Ben!

[@TheCorvetteBen]

In your case, yes I would go with you to buy a C3 anyday !

[@mdemers767]

Great vid, but I watched it about a week too late. Definitely some things on here I would have liked to have known before I bought my C3. Got a '75 Stingray. 350, auto (with shift kit), headers, T-tops. The body is pretty rusty underneath, but not as bad as the nightmare scenario you showed, and I'm hoping the "birdcage" is in good shape too. All the suspension bushings are shot, and the steering is really loosey-goosey. Some problems with the headlights coming up (but I think I found a major vacuum leak, so that will probably help), and the interior environmental controls are shot, and my wiper switch is non-existent. Still, I'm hoping I have something decent to start with. The body is straight, and has been recently painted, with only one flaw I've found.

[@rodneyclements4386]

Thanks for your post. I have a 79 all original that is my first Corvette, and I love driving it! Thank you again.

[@encoencomen8361]

I have a 73 L-82 & 70 LT-1 and I went by many of your same rules that came from years of experience. I personally stay away from big blocks but that's just me. Mid or late C3 years. But if you end up with one clean, good condition at a good price grab it. They make every part if needed. lots of horses or not there fun to drive and always put a smile on your face even if you had a bad day. You did a very good video thank you for the tips.

[@rippertrain]

i just got a 76 bored to 383 4spd manual. everything in your vid checked out. you da man thumbs up

[@mikeholland1031]

Not just bored. Different crank too.

[@beakboi9533]

Found my 78 in storage since 98 when the original owner moved away for work. Rebuilt the motor and now replacing the stupid white interior to black. Swept out a shit ton of dust, but is an absolute beauty. Love the good and bad stuff about this car because it is so fun to drive and handles like a dream. May not be the fastest car on campus, but I'll be damned if it doesn't turn more heads and sound sexy like a real v8.

[@rickyaeger5862]

Excellent video. Valuable practical information briefly and concisely presented. Thank you

[@Tacticalincentive]

I was just given an 82 Corvette. I'm so freaking nervous to see what condition its in. This video helped a lot.

[@mikeholland1031]

Bad fi

[@TheCgraham18]

Excellent video thank you so much! Corvette enthusiast here. Looking to sell my C5 and buy a C3 and this is invaluable information

[@that_thing_I_do]

If you go to a dealer to see your dream car....and he's washing the car" just for you"...he's hiding leaks. Great Channel BTW.

[@joshuahollobaugh7382]

that weather factor is definitely true, there are two corvettes near me that have been outside for a long time in northeast Ohio. one is a 74 that has the body shot and probably a bunch of rust, and there is also a 4 SPEED BIG BLOCK 1968 that was left outside for like 18 years! both were sitting feet away from garages that could've protected them. I wonder if i could sell the 68 for parts and get good money? who knows. I am also frame- offing a 77 that sat for 21 years, it was kept inside. minor rust in the rear wheel arches, but the only rust hole is just an opened up rear drain slot, and i know how to weld, so thats all figured out.

[@maconp1119]

Good job, man. Macon Phillips, Director Technical Services GM Corporation New England Division 1984-2006. "SEE THE USA IN YOUR CHEVROLET". Listen to the gentleman directly after me Mr Getsum I presume. Loads of good advice.

[@stephenmitchell3569]

Thanks for the pointers! Bought a 78 and it's super clean and big block Chevy. Yep just a stock 496 c I with 12 to one compression. Ha Ha Ha Well not stock but body is and a sleeper. When the last time you saw a fast 78 Corvette, like two stage NOS drive to grocery store Vette. Funny thing is my handicap tag on a full cage car. It's just old guy's last hot rod. Purple gas and swing out bars on cage so I can get my old body in. You have great advice that should save some heart break to other!! Fine job thanks!

[@mikeholland1031]

No 496ci and no 396 that year.

[@stephenmitchell3569]

@@mikeholland1031 very true but upgraded to a big block 496 but now just finished putting a 540 ci big block again with 2 stage nitrous running a built 400 turbo and still have a handicap tag. On the street just running 200 HP boost per stage. No a/c, radio,p/s ,p/b , carpet . But carbon fiber dash, lexan windows, full cage, carbon fiber rear spring, Weld Pro lite wheels with Mickey Thompson dot bias slicks and skinny on frt. But good call only smog hog 350/165hp that year except California was only thinking 140 HP. Now has power it need low boost 1100 HP on 93 octane or E-85 for more HP.

[@mikeholland1031]

@@stephenmitchell3569 so why put stock 496?

[@GetsumJ]

Follow-up. I watched your awesome video again and I must have overlooked it the first time. Between 4:00 and 4:40 in the video, I see you encountered the same exact issue that I had during my project. Not sure how you finally resolved the issue on your end, but mine took a lot of work and countless hours trying to get it resolved. How did you accomplish this? For those who didn't notice, only a trained restoration expert would have paid attention to that thing in the background that can be a huge problem. Not sure what others call it, but I labeled mine a "Wife". Always the biggest challenge on any restoration project.

[@justinemrick5211]

Thanks for the video, I'm considering purchasing one and don't know too much about them, until now.

[@johniboz1]

I was driving home yesterday and I noticed a cherry red C3 for sale on a front lawn. I knock on the owners door and it's an older man. He told me he had this 75 for 20 years and wants to sell it. I really wanted a 73 or older but this 4 speed with a nice paint job for 7k I think was a steal! My wife loves it!

[@jamesgrant9377]

Absolutely superb brother. Your video was fantastic and informative. Thanks so much for putting in the effort. I'm looking at an un molested 1971 manual convertible. It looks like an honest car with original paint and a few stone chips. I'm so tempted and this video will lead me at least in the right direction. Cheers again.

[@fifteenbyfive]

Great video! I don't own a Corvette or wish to buy one but there is a lot of transferable wisdom here when dealing with any older car. Great C3 here, what a handsome design. Perhaps as close to timeless styling as one can get in a car.

[@ricksgarage8069]

Very informative. I am interested in the '82 collector's edition. I now have a '93 40th aniversary, a '94 convertable and a '04 Z06 commerative edition. Wouldn't it be cool to have a corvette from each generation?

[@alegdansk]

Thank you Ben for this interesting video. Greetings from Italy.

[@rongriffin4905]

Great video,very informative.I agree with GetsumJ, it's nice to see the younger crowd keeping these cars on the road.👍

[@mjdoug44]

Awesome video, I've learned a lot watching your videos, you explain things in great detail! Also I want to add, in any collector car purchase you need to have a passion for it.. Keep up the great videos!!

[@tonyanthony493]

Great video. Im looking at buying my first ever corvette project car and I can say im a bit nervous; this video really helped alleviate some of the worry. Thanks

[@TheCorvetteBen]

Tony Anthony Just remember there are always Corvettes for sale, and will always be another. Make sure you buy the right one.

[@the4ofus2023]

Thanks mate for a great video, looking myself to buy a Corvette replacing the 2012 HSV Clubsport R8 I have. Keep those video's coming.

[@algir2u]

The C3 are the nicest VETTE , the 79, 80, 81, 82 are the best of all...they have real seats, not only some kind of bench. Very well done clip BTW, would ad may be something. If you wish to buy a C3, first thing to check is the spare...it tells all the story of the car...beleive me, did had nearly 30 to date...

[@TheCorvetteBen]

+algir2u IF there is a spare to check! I have seen many who have trashed the whole spare tire tub, the spare along with it!

[@YanksSatrianiJaws]

+algir2u ...agree, I like the 79 to 82 models, myself

[@mikeholland1031]

82 has cross fire. Garbage

[@discerningmind]

Very good info. Nice job. An addendum to #7 is mice. They can trash an HVAC unit, etc.

[@YanksSatrianiJaws]

Great video, and nice Vette! I had 5 C3 Vette's in the past (not all at once), when I was a kid, these KZbin videos would have helped me, but there was no internet at the time! :D Good tips on the "birdcage"; it sucks that so many of these C3's leak; that used to drive me crazy; although I did pretty well with mine; only 1 of mine leaked substantially... ***I also noticed that these C3's blast heat out at your legs; that drove me crazy too; but I still love C3's...

[@talkingvegetable3538]

+Uncle Bacala Theater my '76 never leaks and the Vintage Aire keeps it freezing inside during the hottest days of the Virginia summers... you have to restore them or they are junk; Chevrolet: Constantly Having Every Vehicle Recalled Over Lousy Engineering Techniques...

[@willpz2401]

i watched this video hoping to learn something (as a 42 year old man). Good job, you taught me something.

[@905Alive]

This is great info, thanks, I've tossed around buying a Vette for a long time and i just never panned out, recently I was looking at a 81 and the paint was bubbling around the rear pillars, upon doing some research I found that in 81 Vettes were made in St Louis with the old paint facility and lacquer and in Kentucky in a new facility with enamel, the car in question was built in St Louis, it was repainted but I think they may have goofed in prep from the lacquer hence the bubbles, some big ones.

[@TheCorvetteBen]

905Alive That is a possibility, C3s are notorious for being "quality challenged", with the bowling green cars having the best build quality. Are you sure that car had original paint? I have only found a few C3s that have not been repainted at one point.

[@905Alive]

TheCorvetteBen in my last line it was definately "recently" repainted, which really scared me, love the car, 51k documented miles, 4sp, but bubbling paint ugh, didn't look like any panels had been messed with and body lines were good, I think it had the typical st louis bad paint and they repainted it to try and flip it, it was actually at a high dollar classic car shop that does restorations, I should have bought one new back then

[@905Alive]

plus I saw one hit a sapling 1" dia tree once and it disintegrated so I'm cautious to say the least

[@eule0509]

although is a bit old - I really appreciate the Tipps - Thank you! Greets from Austria

[@jeffzahnd]

excellent amateur video. only those that have put the time into something like this can appreciate how hard it really is to produce. Nice work, going to look at a 1972 next weekend, and I'm gonna use all you're advise in checking it out.

[@lobo718]

Good video ! I bought a 1975 c3 that had been in storage for 10 yrs . I was told it had all matching numbers . When I checked the engine it was a 255 out of a 1955 truck lol . It's ok I had already planned a 5.3 ls twin turbo swap so still happy except douche bag seller . Frame body and bird cage perfect !

[@alecgamer420]

what did ya pay for it lol also bet that thing fucking rips with the new motor

[@lloydtomlin1642]

Up here in Washington state, we don't use salt on our roads and my 76' is almost rust free.

[@Whatsupbruther]

I'm up here too man, so glad our water is soft and the rock salt is kept to a minimum 😂 Just went on a road trip to ND, and my god, the amount of visible rust was insane. I'm only 22 right now, but I can't wait for our contract negotiations at my new job, I might actually have the salary here pretty soon to get a C3, and god it would be a dream 🤤

[@TheBooyakaa]

geez, dude, I didn't even want to byu a corvette, but if...... you're my first adress for it...!!!! great job, really, I love it !!!!

[@OcelotTheFurious]

7 years ago I was originally going to buy a C3 Corvette. It needed a bunch of work literally anywhere you looked. Until I saw a '91 C4 that till this day I still own and drive :)

[@bubbaclinton1105]

Would be great if I could hear it!

[@BOTmaster15]

11:17 Probably it was late model (1978 or 1979). Wheels are nice, whole styling is resembling Eckler's Can Am bodywork. It's hard to tell from only 2 photos and low res on top of that, but to me it's looking as pretty good project car (note, only IF everything is molded in correctly). You can easily buy body parts from acivette. Also if someone bother with that many body mods, you could expect, that frame and suspension are in decent shape (otherwise it doesn't have any sense). If you can see on the photos that some critical parts have been replaced/restored (e.g: new carb, fan, radiator), you can bet that other stuff is in good condition too (it's not a rule though). But of course looking in person, the thing you buy is the best. Also about VIN on engine block. Some people tend to grind it down, after restoration. One more thing to rule 10, after purchase you have to buy AIM with correct year. AIM is a must have.

[@TheCorvetteBen]

I think it might have been an earlier one based on the back window, but we will never know. I saw this on ebay years and years ago, and I WISH I had saved more of the pics! Live and learn!

[@spectrabomb4674]

10:20 what if it’s raining and I park outside to go in somewhere, will that damage it? (If it’s a T-top roof)

[@trewilliamson1763]

Thanks for video Bud..extremely helpful. You covered alot of my thoughts...that I felt I should take a look at before I purchase one.

[@KNS_Racing]

awesome video. Can you please do one for the C4 if you have not already?

[@TheCorvetteBen]

Yep. It is already made. Should be under the corvette videos.

[@markko17]

It's been three years since this video. Have you gotten shielding for your distributor yet?

[@anthonycusinato3969]

Ben was your red 73 roadster originally an Elkhart green car?

[@TheCorvetteBen]

Yep

[@anthonycusinato3969]

@@TheCorvetteBen cool I'm glad you still replied even though this was a pretty old posting. I've been watching your videos off and on, for a couple years now. I've built a few c3s from the ground up too and I've got an Elkhart green 73 big block coupe that I'd love to show you some time

[@davidsmith3828]

Great vid! Liked and sub’d! Starting soon on a ‘75...wish me luck...(never had the opportunity to check the items you mention). Keep the vids coming please.

[@cvette79blue]

Great presentation! I wish you had been around when I bought my 77 in 1998 and 79 in 1999. A Salvage car. rule 11 Salvage you can buy cheap...but they can be hell to get rid of. I had mine for 10 years and turned it into one great show car, Sold it to a dealer for a 1969 Corvair. Got some money out of it but not near what I put into it. Now do you have a 10 rules for C-2's Rule one They were never called C-2's They were Midyears or Sting Rays. This C-2 junk came after the C-4 came out and they ran out of cool names for the cars. like Sting Ray's and Sharks. Maybe the C-4 should have been called the Electric Vette. LOL

[@ckstaff]

No matter how much money and work you put into it, there is always more to do for the next owner. I have thought of this as I am some $35,000 into my 69 Stingray yet you could go on and on. I loved the challenge, restoring it back to what it once was, as when I started it looked like a 69 vette in appearance only, it was a shell of what it was originally. It was an expensive addition, but I also added the rag top, just because I wanted a 2 top vette. Will I ever recover all the work and money invested? Who knows, but I had fun.

[@Anthony-qj7qe]

Like your videos, great job..but I would just like to add something that I'm sure you're already aware of. Not everyone can get the vette of their dreams, cost being a main issue. A lot of the earlier C3's are now astronomically priced and out of reach for many ppl. They are simply not feasible. Unfortunately, in life sometimes, yes, you just have to settle.... because for some, it can mean the difference between owning one or not. Btw, I just got myself a 75 corvette (long time coming) using your rules, its not perfect but I'm more than happy with it. :)

[@Al-um9mj]

Nice video, thx! I am searching for one in EU and given the options, I am seriously thinking to go to US and import it myself

[@Cheekiemoney]

What is the average cost of yearly repairs? Thinking on getting a C3 model

[@danielfreeman5190]

Your a very smart kid. Thanks a lot for the help. God bless you

[@Hunter-bj6yl]

can you do a guide on what to look for on the 56' caddy, I might get one soon

[@TriodeLuvr]

I'm fixing up a C3 for a daily driver. The car will have to spend most of its time in my driveway, so it needs to be as weather resistant as possible. I already know the T-tops leak, so I'm replacing the weatherstripping. What else should be done (sealant or specific parts replaced) to minimize water incursion? Also, about the birdcage, what can be done to extend its life? I'm wondering if it might be possible to blow atomized rust converter into the framework, maybe using a HVLP sprayer or similar. Any thoughts on this?

[@drvinnyg7422]

if I get a 70-72 donor, will a79 interior fit it? Dash, console, door panels, etc... I love the 70-72 exterior but prefer the 79 interior, such as glove box and power window switches and speed/tach.

[@TheCorvetteBen]

+Dr VinnyG It will fit, the real issue you will have is your wiring harness. Youll have to change out the dash and engine bay harnesses to get all the 78 and up interior stuff to work

[@tommissouri4871]

7:45 and 7:49 are mainly surface rust, typically from a damp environment or stored on dirt floors like in a barn or shed. The question is not that, but if it is solid. Light tapping with a screw driver or tiny hammer will ping vs. thud. Yes, that exhaust is gone, but frames are much thicker than exhaust pipe. And that is a big block in that car. 7:54 is really bad. the end caps of the frame behind the doors are a known rust out spot. You didn't show those. 8:23 - running your fingers on the fender lips was for 1963 to 1967 as there is a bonding strip on the front. In a crash, they typically mudded in the front until it held. There is no strip at the lip but much higher up on the C3. Still, you can see if they spliced a panel in by checking the backside.

[@geraldscott9446]

I got exactly what I wanted. A white 1976 coupe. STOCK rally wheels, not some 20" trash from the ghetto. Corvettes are not that different from other vintage cars. The main thing to look for is rust, and damage caused by an accident. Unfortunately this stuff can be harder to find on a Corvette, because the fiberglass body covers up a lot of the "birdcage" frame. Check for proper fitment of doors and hood. The main place other than under the bodywork and windshield trim is around where the body bolts to the frame. The frame tends to rust in that area, and the threads where the body mount bolts go can rust completely out. Also, while almost every part is available for these cars, the body mount bolts are not. Most of these cars will have minor cracks in the body, especially around the flat back window. If they aren't too bad, consider it normal. Unfortunately, despite their drop dead gorgeous styling, these cars were not built very well. Mechanically they are the same as any other car, with only a couple of exceptions. The rear suspension can be a nightmare to work on, and it will probably need rebuilding. Some of it you can do, some will need to be done by a shop. The front suspension is the same as any other car, other than the Power steering, which uses a hydraulic cylinder in the steering linkage. Count on rebuilding both the front and rear suspension and steering. The original brakes had unlined aluminum calipers, which quickly corroded and leaked. I doubt there are still any of those still out there, the fix was to rebuild the oem calipers with a steel bore. The interior will likely need a lot of work. They were very poor quality to begin with and have not held up well. Engine and transmission are just like any other car. Mine has a new GM crate 350 small block and a TH350 automatic transmission. If you are not worried about matching numbers, just drop in a new engine/transmission and be done with it. Unless you are buying a seriously high dollar totally restored car, plan on spending several thousand to get it right. Do you want a show car, or a daily driver? Figure that out before you actually buy a car.

[@Domobomb]

Should also note that these cars got better as the years went by. More refined, better aerodynamics, better looks, better suspension, weight savings, a bit safer, etc. With coupe being preferred over convertible due to the much better frame. Also, manual being preferred over automatic due to weight savings and efficiency. The later years, specifically the 80-82, are much cheaper too, so you can get a better car for less. Should also look at small block engines instead of big block for the weight savings, and ease of power modifications.

[@TheCorvetteBen]

Domobomb It all depends on who you ask

[@kavinskysmith4094]

TheCorvetteBen indeed, I think the 80 - 82's are ugly, and you can retrofit the changed rear suspension of those to an earlier car anyways.

[@gordongreninger6109]

Kavinsky Smith I gotta agree. Both bumpers (front &rear) blow on 80-82 cars. My dad was flippin new Corvettes thru the 70s. Believe it or not hardloaded L48 automatic cars were the mainstay of the Corvette market in middle America during that era. The insurance issues that killed the muscle cars was still in place. For most people the L48 automatic Corvettes were easier to insure. Leather, pwr windows, pwr locks, cruise control, am fm cb(!) in dash, 4 speaker stereos, etc etc. Those were the in demand options for them L48 Automatic cars in the st louis, tulsa, okc, dallas/ftw sales demographic. I was bustin my dads ball$ for ordering up these wimpy "Caddy Vettes". So pops let me order several. I ordered my first Corvette in Oct 78. A 79 Blk over red leather interior l82, 4spd, gymkanna suspension, close ratio 4spd. I clicked every hotrod box there was! I ordered it with the Pace Car front and rear spoilers. That cars build was hung up by that spoiler option until Jan 79. GM had some sort of supply issue with those spoilers. "We expect the spoilers to arrive and your car built in the next 3 weeks". I axed the spoilers and 3 weeks latter had the car around Feb 79. That car arrived on Pace Car bright finnished versions of the standard alumn corvette wheel. That Gymkhanna Suspension package really gave them cars "Stance". I spent about 400 man hrs color sanding that Black car by hand while daily driving it. I broke it in nice and right. That car drove and handled pretty respectable. It really put the L48 Autos to shame. More so than printed specs suggest.

[@leonelhinojosa6009]

Thank you for your insight. Very helpful 👌

[@Tawney_Williams]

We just bought a 1979 Corvette. Pretty great condition except that the cab gets very hot with engine heat at your feet. What do you think that is?

[@randelclawson7695]

All C3s have that issue but it's curable with some effort. There are heat and sound damper materials like Dynamat, etc. that you can put on the firewall, transmission tunnel and floorboards under the carpet that will greatly reduce if not completely eliminate the heat.

[@chrisyoung1478]

Great video, very informative. thanks for that.

[@rahulkanda4743]

Hey bud, great video! Looking for my first stingray, real excited...and scared haha. Thanks for the tips!

[@drvinnyg7422]

great video. because of the c3's age, if I wanted to, could I build my own c3 from the ground up using new parts from the catalogs and the web or would I ultimately still get stuck having to find a donor car for the body and frame?

[@TheCorvetteBen]

+Dr VinnyG The frame and "birdcage" you would have to get from a donor car, but literally EVERYTHING else you can buy new from a catalog. Pretty Cool!

[@drvinnyg7422]

+TheCorvetteBen Any suggestions where to get a convertible body and doors?

[@TheCorvetteBen]

ebay, craigslist? You could try posting up a wanted ad on corvetteforum.com

[@Corvette-Dan]

Good job Ben. Corvette Dan.

[@screaminhd2004]

Good video ben. 73 stingray here!!

[@LEESODANO]

Hi A very good video , I have been looking at 68-69 , 427 / 435hp but very expensive . I noticed the 454 badge on your hood and your car is auto , is it a 454 if so how do you find the performance against a 427 /435hp , 4 speed ? . Steve .

[@frankburns8871]

Any tips for buying my second one?

[@TheCorvetteBen]

Be careful, because it might lead to a third?

[@sucapizda]

I have one more. Test drive ANY C3 over some pot holes or a train track crossing or something. If you don't shit your pants at the sheer chaos that will ensue, and live through the experience, and still like the car then maybe its made to be. I ran as fast as I can go away from the pile that is the C3.

[@UniqueApollo]

I'm going to get my uncle's 1982 silver blue c3 corvette he said he can sell it for 12k should I keep it or sell it for something more easier to maintain. It needs little work it has 83k miles on it last time it ran was in 2018 we just lat it sat for 2 years. Should I keep it? He said it just need interior he said he has everything.

[@josephmorini6260]

Excellent video my friend!!!

[@yurdiga]

Thanks Dude, nice vid. I'm still thinking about wether to get a c3 or c5

[@edstingray3828]

I've owned my 1972 coupe Mille Migille Red for 40 years. 3rd owner. I've been thur my car once..just overhauled complete brake system, u joints, emergency system, master cylinder. drill rotors, new caliber, seals, bearings. A/C next.

[@barryhaley523]

Wow never see anything about a 79 corvette bubble glass. I have one and it is great. Number matching very fast 4 speed good times 110 in third gear hit 4th and no Idea how fast it was going. What a rush!!!

[@gotdamnjimi9758]

Which one is the flat rear glass coupe

[@chrisrkelly61]

what a fantastic well presented and informative video..i just subbed to your channel..

[@TheCorvetteBen]

crusty ringpimple I am glad you enjoyed it! Check out my playlists for more Corvette and old car videos!

[@gentel916]

Rule number 1 : buy a C3 and hope that Ben has a video on any issue that will happen. Rule number 2 : he probably does but hoping wont hurt.