The $5,000 Corvette C3 is a BARGAIN!! | Ricky Boada

@RICKYBOADA ** This is my car **
If you're looking to get into a classic car but don't have a big budget, or simply want something affordable thats different for weekend drives, then a Corvette C3 is a great option. This is at the bottom of the range for an entry level classic car that looks like you spent way more than the actual cost. These cars have yet to grow in major popularity within the enthusiasts world because they honestly don't drive all that great. The steering wheel is a little off centered, the driving position isn't too comfortable, and the mirrors are almost useless, haha. None the less, the car holds a major cool factor and can be an easy "flip". You can pick up these cars for $5,000-$7,000 and sell for around $10,000 solely just by freshening up the way the car looks. Remember, the price is always dictated by what people are willing to pay for something. I hope you guys enjoy this review and a few things to look for - feel free to reach out if you need help with purchasing or opinion on flipping a car, even properties!
Film/Edit: @MkBruix
For me: @RickyBoada on all social media!
#corvette #corvettec3 #chevy

[@MarkGelderland]

5K i'd buy it in a second. In Europe a car like this does 15-25K

[@bossartwork2269]

Lol everywhere that car goes for 15k idk how he got that deal I’m jealous

[@c3o2osu43]

Boss Artwork22 there’s a couple of c3’s that goes under 12k here in Norway. They’re atos tho

[@gonzalovazquez7326]

15-25k? I'd buy it in a second. In Argentina a car like this does 70-100k

[@afrivolouspursuit3147]

@@bossartwork2269 Bruh. You're getting scammed

[@adrianojovanovic320]

there are even some for 9k€

[@phixodenix6528]

"In the nighttime you want the wind to blow your hair" 2:54 Doesn't even have a hair.

[@SBFRuggedYou]

I was just about to comment on this LMFAOO

[@samtheman227]

I was thinking the same thing 😂

[@hunchomar1211]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@FRVNK4]

was gonna comment but you got it haha

[@bonkeydollocks1879]

It was said tongue in cheek

[@daniels8105]

Best body style Vette in my opinion. I might get a ‘74 in the next 48 hours. 350 Automatic

[@lebowskiunderachiever3591]

Did you end up getting it ? I have a 74 that needs to go

[@daniels8105]

Labowski UnderAchiever I did. Ran into some wiring problems. Became too big of a hassle so I had to sell it about a month ago

[@trillrifaxegrindor4411]

no,its kinda the ugliest.the 60s are the best,1972 is were it all gets ugly

[@daniels8105]

trillrif axegrindor opinions are like *ssholes, we all have one lmao

[@daniels8105]

Brandon Knight automatic=Race winner. Added bonus, no bullsh*t excuses about missing gears and sh*t

[@2asianguys667]

In Vietnam this car is consider a expensive classic , it’ll cost $100k in Vietnam if swap with a new engine.

[@dannyspitzer1267]

Check the frame and birdcage before you buy a C3, or u could get screwed

[@michaelgreene7385]

And not even kissed...

[@stephenr1999]

@@michaelgreene7385 Its a pieced together s. fl $5k frankenvette, my moneys on rotten. But you need to get one.

[@michaelgreene7385]

@@stephenr1999 I have two Vette's, a 76 Stingray and a 86... going to get an 82, because I like the body style, and a 96, then I'll be through shopping... Wish I could afford a couple more.....

[@ghanly6848]

“Let the wind blow through your hair” proceeds to stroke bald head, that was pretty funny

[@davidorcutt8914]

Really enjoyed your candid enthusiastic C3 video. Interesting how you upgraded the front and rear. Was it just a bolt on swap? You have me even more excited to keep working on my project that is almost done. A 78 C3 with a new rebuilt motor with only 5000 miles on it. No rust issues what so ever. New windshield. Power windows. I have to go through the brakes and then put some sweet new tires on it and I am on the road. All of the AC components are there so I might eventually get that cold air flowing. Look forward to following on KZbin Ricky.

[@elianaramsay9713]

I wish I watched your video last week. Took me 2 days to figure out why key stuck. Previous owner didn't know why I'm having trouble. He never told me about the key lock. Still learning things about my car. Good video. Thanks.

[@ryanfester2824]

I love your whole set up. This is what I want whenever I can get my hands on one.

[@camo1276]

Loved the video! Short and sweet! Now I have a bunch of bookmarks for corvettes! Thanks Ricky!

[@steves4639]

thx for showing the C3 love! the 2 big places to check for rust - the body mounts behind the kick panels and the rear frame kickup where the control arms pivot, both of which are deal breakers unless its some special C3, like a big block 4speed. Windshield frame can rust too. Same platform from '63-'82, and these were raced *a lot*, so they can be made to handle just fine. I own a '74 L82, and they are fun cars...C3's used to be the trailer-park Vette (now that belongs to C4 and C5!) but are coming up value as this level of style will never be seen again.

[@tommckinney3136]

The biggest problem with a C3 is it's on a C2 frame so the suspension is an old design but it does work well when upgraded with polyurethane bushings. The great thing is any GM Crate engine will fit. He mentions the A/C and that was always an issue in the C3. Later models worked better than early bumper cars but it never worked well.

[@dirtydave82]

I love my 79 c3. So easy to work on, and a 600hp 383 isn’t a bad add on

[@kirbyhade2961]

Thanks for this video! I bought a 77 Vette last fall for $3,300. Needs some mechanical work only nothing I can’t do myself. It’s a L48 with a 4 speed manual and in the factory Orange Flame paint.

[@ianstrachan4361]

where did you buy it?

[@theegigisupreme]

My mother just gave me her '78 pace car. Having it fixed up right now since it was sitting for about 6 years. I'm over the moon.

[@michaelgreene7385]

That will be a nice ride...

[@johnnysizemore9399]

I had a 1973 loved it except no air conditioning, big factor now that I'm older

[@robertclymer6948]

Hey Ricky! She looks pretty good with the front and rear mods! I used to own a C-3 73 350 ci automatic Vert. Miss that car and now I have the Vette bug again and not sure which one I want. Thanks for sharing. Cheers from Motown.

[@FreedomForce100]

Great video. Really well done and congrats on a real bargain!

[@MajorArtillary]

I traded five grand and a body damage totaled '04 Monte Carlo for a '76 4-speed Vette. Very little rust, good paint, ran well. I replaced the brakes, fluid reservoir, 2 lines, and master cylinder. Car had no interior in it other than the driver's seat which wasn't bolted down. Spent the summer and fall sourcing interior parts and getting it in good shape. Car looked great but it had no power at all so I took it to a family friend who owns and runs a classic car and hot rod shop. A month later and I had a 400hp crate motor and chrome side pipes. Overall I spent about $15k plus the traded wreck. Of all the time and money I've put into cars, this one has absolutely been the best.

[@nkmoto894]

Just got a 77 for 1800. Doing the rear end swap too! I was so happy when you said yours was a 77 because I was nervous it wasn't gonna fit. Hell yeah!!

[@mcmc8496]

With 8" subs in the compartment behind the seat, that cool gas cap dances around (and rattles) like crazy. But you can't beat a C3! I've had a 69 and a 71 pro street car. Just like all the rest, I regret selling them regularly. Buy em their not making anymore, you'll be glad you did...

[@gooney0]

If buying, check the birdcage and frame for rust. Engine and transmission are the easy parts to repair and replace.

[@TheBlkac1]

Great video 👍🏿 I bought a C4 Corvette 1987 for $2,600 These cars really are dependable. I drove mine to Michigan and Mississippi from Georgia. Really fun cars to drive😎👍🏿

[@75dtruong]

I bought a 1989 for $3100 in 2019. Great condition! 108k miles. Drove it from california to Texas. No problems! Fun fun fun!

[@TheNewGeneration-wh4kr]

Can u tell me where did u get it plz?

[@aboutmyfathersbusiness8324]

Had a C4 and put close to 400K on the clock. Very reliable!

[@michaelgreene7385]

I've got a red, with black targa roof, 5 .7 TPI, it will haul ass, and I ain't talking about a fat chick either...

[@michaelgreene7385]

Mine is a 86, runs strong.

[@TheManInTheRing]

I love when someone is in love with somthing they own, it might not be expensive, it might be a work in progress but you can tell they are emotionally attached to it in some way.

[@cloud819]

I watched you older Lotus Esprit video before this one and it is impressive how much your videos improved in a pretty short time.

[@RickyBoada]

cloud819 I appreciate that!!

[@ssdtrain1]

Front driver side kick panel is the best way to check the Birdcage for rotting.

[@petercarey6883]

Glad to see you back Ricky, especially in a Vette and re-especially in a C3. You did good with this purchase for the points you mentioned as far as the front and rear conversion to the '80 and up bumpers. FWIW, just a bit of trivia, I would stay away from the '82's. The first one being the cross-fire injection engine and second, if you want a manual trans, you're not going to find one. N.A. in '82. Enjoy it, stay safe and as always, Save the Wave.🙋🏼‍♂️👍👋🏼

[@jim4205]

i have an 82 they are extremely reliable

[@rachelamanns2520]

Love my C3, I got from a 1 car owner. He swapped for an LT-1 engine 👍🏼 No regrets

[@garymathews4042]

the 78 up c3 got the bubble back window .most vette owners don't change fluid ,so every things leaks and needs rebuilding .the 80 vette got lighter with a lighter frame and fiber glass and a alum rear diff,wimpy half shafts and u-bolts ,which can't handle too much power.but you can swap in a 79 or older cast iron differential .the 82 vette got the cross fire engine and the 4 speed auto .if buying any older vette check for brake and drive line leaks .and check for any rusty or rotted frame

[@SUBATOMICvision]

Great Vid! Thanks man! YES! these cars are a great value!! Bought a 79 with a cherry body on it all orig paint. Rest of car needing total restoration. Have installed new gas tank, sender unit, cleaned and repainted the frame, installed kilmat heat and sound deadening. New brakes all around, currently have the rear differential out to replace with rebuilt one, replacing all rubber bushings etc. New mufflers, new rims. Gutted the interior, super easy to do and will replace. Next power steering rebuild. Have restored many cars in my day. These cars are super easy to work on and I can't believe how much attention it gets everywhere I drive it, its crazy! Even the women go nutz for it!!! Absolutely one of the most beautifully designed cars ever!

[@madspy2462]

How much has the restoration cost you since you got it?

[@74360CUDA]

The perfect car to drop a LS conversion in there, even the 5.3 with that LS1 intake would rock in that car.

[@hanzjensen2154]

Stupid idea...it’s a 1977!

[@ddogphacemorcane3198]

@@hanzjensen2154 Not that rare and not worth much. (still looks cool and lots of fun) With only 180 or 210hp, if it's not a perfect all original survivor, a 5.3LS straight out of the junkyard would really wake it up for cheap.

[@Chilicharger665]

The only LS swap I have seen so far required a lot of cutting of the body. It was a T56 swap too, though.

[@larrydrozd2740]

NOPE!! Waist of time.....and a HUGE pile of money if you plan on actually driving the car.

[@ddogphacemorcane3198]

@@Chilicharger665 If you're referring to the V8TV swap, that was way beyond a junkyard drop in. They do good, big buck work and if somebody has the cash for it, they will end up with an awesome machine. But as an ordinary driver, definitely not necessary.

[@jeffv2074]

I would do a complete retromod restoration on it, currently I'm doing that to a 4gen Camaro Z28, I might go hybrid on this one. The C3 Corvette has always been a Sexy sports car.

[@ioannismarkac5317]

About c3 prices in Europe, it's over 25k € for models prefacelift (68-73), 10-25k for 73-77s depending how they look and drive, and then 8-15k max for the 78 to 82.

[@nonsequitur807]

I've always liked the back glass of the late 70s n dig the front n rear treatment/bumpers of early 80s. What a combo! Sweet ride. They have everything for those cars to get them back 100% Groovy vid...thanks for the idea!

[@RickyBoada]

Peter Wyndham thank you so much man!! Appreciate it

[@klm2395rh]

They say the two best days in a mans life is the day he buys a corvette and the day he sells it.

[@fuita227]

I've had mine 35 yrs and it's an 80 model...wouldn't sell it for $30k, even though they tell me it's only worth 10!

[@PassengerFifty7]

A lion and a jaguar escaped from the zoo yesterday. The found the jaguar broke down about 3 miles away from the zoo. They haven't found the lion yet.

[@miamibitch305fl]

I wouldn’t say the selling part.

[@stevebeight4473]

I’ve sold a Vette.....not one of the best days at all.

[@lilstewy5091]

@@miamibitch305fl It’s for people who don’t know how to work on their corvette. As someone who didn’t know nothing before, it was a pain with random leaks but now that I know my car, it’s the best working on it and driving with no worries

[@jrcautomotive4319]

C3 is easily the most beautiful corvette

[@aplsmpl]

I would totally buy that!! The old Corvette Stingrays and C3’s are one of my favorite cars to date.

[@keithsclassicgarage1133]

I have had 32 Corvettes, own a70 custom now. They have attitude for sure!

[@hugieflhr03]

Buyer beware when a corvette is hacked up and pieced together. It usually means it was wrecked. The lower rear will wear out the inside edge of the tires as they are now canted inward. Btw, those rear links are installed wrong but it looks like a fun driver.

[@craigmeyer5777]

It was 5k!

[@Rollermanfromspace]

My grandpa's got a 77 but with an 81 body, 67 side vents, and was turned into a convertible with a 75 top. It's seen better days and I cannot wait to start working on it

[@dannyspitzer1267]

It would be tough to sell that FrankenVette if you ever had or wanted to. People want original.

[@nilosantos4862]

This is amazing car. The fiberglass at this age don't offer any security in case off accident. First keep the shell off and make a tube attach to the frame and buy new bumpers ( Fox gas oil) check the brakes good look

[@donnis618]

Good job reppin' the C3

[@garden0fstone736]

I’ve been thinking about a c4 while they’re still cheap. My grandfather had a 61 convertible, that thing was fun to drive

[@SERGE_Tech]

phenomenal video man!!!!!

[@onizzal]

Weeping from the uk, affordable dream car for real haha x

[@grandizer4531]

Damn bro you living the life. Enjoy and much blessings.

[@Killmonize]

Got to love that sofl weather. Anyway great car.

[@Justcalmdriving]

Great video! Makes me want to get one!

[@c_wonder]

I love the styling but no one selling under 10k nowadays.

[@jocrp6]

It got lowered 4 inch's from where the frame is rotten!

[@nick011182]

I bought an 81 a year and a half ago for $4800. It ran and drove fine just needed some tlc and basic maintenance. It’s such a cool car. They are out there you just gotta look.

[@RickyBoada]

Nick Austin 100% man I agree. Can’t beat it for the price

[@charleshall9755]

You can always reach under and raise them manually. And also they can be easily lowered...

[@lyndentinkerer9914]

Great video! Cool Car - nice presentation!

[@pyscobrand]

Got a 1969 stingray with automatic transmission and 350 v8 for 5k. Still in the process of getting the differential swapped. But once that, all the bushings, and carburetor is replaced, she'll be s hell of a cruiser.

[@trillrifaxegrindor4411]

bullshit,were?

[@TheWhatuprichie]

That's what I got my 79 for as well x) there's seems to be a sweet spot for old Chevy's in Oregon.

[@motorcycleman-go4708]

got one in the buckskin paint and interior for 2500! love that thing, tossing some sidepipes on

[@TheNewGeneration-wh4kr]

Motorcycle Man-GO how did u get it for that cheap? Plz help

[@ptonfire1]

I had a 74 Stingray...I think I put a truck battery in mine. "When you hop in my Vette,don't get burned by the pipes...."

[@quattrofour4188]

You're gonna need to get that AC working in Miami 😅 I had a '77 in PR and the AC wasn't working 100% and it was brutal...Also, you didn't mention the chronic water leakage, especially in the t-top area (this will be another big issue in Miami). Beautiful car, especially for the price, but you have to know what you're getting into

[@chuckford5927]

There's nothing more expensive than a cheap Vette. Glad you were able to find one that runs for $5000, but to fix everything that's wrong with it, could get VERY expensive. The rust starting to bleed through the lower windshield pillar is not a good sign. If the birdcage is rotted out, I'd get rid of it while it's still running. I've owned a '82. The C3 is one of the most beautiful Corvettes ever built. No one can deny the curves. I'd love to own another one (I currently have a '89 convertible).

[@jamesflames9930]

Looks cool, a classic look now with the curvy lines gone forever with the new mid.

[@RickyBoada]

Yup!! But performance is gonna be out of this world

[@charvelgaming2975]

Awesome I had an 82 many years ago. Sweet looking car

[@beingmalik2945]

Brother I bloody need this 😍

[@TheFirstCause]

I he said '1977' I was a little confused... but it was immediately followed by him saying it was modded with the 80s front end. The 80s bumpers are my fav version of this car in terms of looks. Hhehe 'only go up in value' at the end though... I love this car... but I'm not so sure for a car that has done nothing but go down in value haha for 30 years.

[@michaelgreene7385]

Not exactly true, actually, they have been slowly rising in price, not so fast that you can't find one before they do, just a matter of time, all Vette's are worth buying, just some more than others, and the 70's model will go up in price before long, because of supplies of these cars are going down every year, and to most people, these Vette's come to mind when they hear Corvette, not the other ones, people love the styling of the c3 car's a lot, repowered with a 400 hp 350, they sell themselves.....

[@ngamesngames2091]

Yeahhhh sr increible videoo Ricky!! Esta todo muy bien explicado cada detalle que tiene el corvette y tambien los pequeños secretos, para mi que esta coche que valga 5milo dolares esta muy bien incluso tirado en todo en el estado se be bien y tienes mucho coche por esta candida a mas un V8 ! Muy buen video Broo 👍👍🙌🙌!!

[@moisesramirez6796]

Si

[@paulmoss7940]

I enjoy all vettes. Have owned C3 and 4's ,looking for a C6 now. Worst thing on C3;s are rotten birdcages.And most later C3's were so weak. But you can fix that also.

[@Sami-lx7mf]

Nice Vid how did the front end get lowered?

[@GenerationOldschool]

Great video my brother

[@shchino134]

Excellent video man!!

[@RickyBoada]

Thanks so much my bro! appreciate it!

[@MrYurrr]

I drove Corvette Stingray C3 454. Great car! Greeting from Riga!

[@tuureal2358]

I just bought one myself where did u get the seats from i need to do my inside that was a great deal

[@krayziecorvette1896]

Damn i wish i had a black c3. Looks like a fun car!! I’ve added it to my wishlist though. Maybe it’ll be my birthday gift lol

[@aboutmyfathersbusiness8324]

Dang I thought it was an 80's car. I need a repaint and really looking at the front and rear bumpers!

[@modsocietyofgroup9354]

I got mine for 2500 but it was a basket case, had to replace all of the metal in the car aside from the engine, that includes the birdcage, but everything is completely brand new so it’ll run perfectly, but I’ll have around 20k in it by then

[@teter129]

Nice! Good video bro.

[@havefunbesafe]

A cherry 75 now with t tops and 350/4 speed about $14k now in California

[@waynebowen3133]

You need to adjust the camber on rear tires or they will wear out on the inside of the tire

[@fitbmx7744]

I am working on a trade to get a 1979 c3 with a 412 that has been really upgraded. The guy can get anyone to buy it because it needs head gaskets after he messed the torquing up installing them.

[@jacksongatens2419]

This and a 1969 Charger are the most iconic American cars in my opinion

[@omarmagallanes4738]

Nice video men, where did you go to change the interior?

[@senselessmonkee]

I have one and I don't how you could do all that for $500. Just the labor to re-do the seats was $500 on mine.

[@KrustyKlown]

Had an 1981 Corvette ... looked much better than it was ... engine was around 175hp and had a real hard time even getting much over 100mph.. once topped it out at 123mph ..and the last 10mph took several miles to reach, LOL. Still the C3 body style was AWESOME, still is.. and the C4 never will be, LOL

[@static7415]

C4 zr1 has more character than a c3…

[@4bryantwesley]

My dad has one of these, I really want to get it from him & restore it. Anniversary edition.

[@123lenny135]

Those aluminum wheels will polish out, look like new, and be awesome.

[@cjalfonso2212]

Check the camber on your rear IRS. You have a negative camber angle issue.

[@MrCochran]

Any idea on how much it’s going to cost to fix headlights? Thinking about snagging one for $2,700 from a friend.

[@Duece-_-]

when he said 5 grand i was suprised because most of em are going 30-60k

[@Sludge73]

Lol most of em....not even close to reality.

[@DeathByLego]

Unless they’re perfect. You 98% of the time don’t need to go over 20-25g.

[@bonkeydollocks1879]

There is a reason for that, they don't have a different front or back tacked on to them like this car has hence the price

[@racerx2348]

car is a mongrel. a rattle box with front and rear parts from a different year hence the 5k price point. i have to say i do like it : )

[@strobeeboy]

Looking at an 81 c3 with sidepipes and a custom front end!

[@bluv1602]

Did you ever find late 70's Camaros of interest?

[@beachside1]

I had a 1979 vette and was soo disappointed when old ladies were passing me with like a maxima. The c-3 s were soo neutered. The L48 engine has 180 hp an the L88 have 210 hp. Mine had 72k an was always in the garage. I would go for an earlier model like maybe a 1972 or 73 at least. But thats a pretty good deal for yours

[@MeltingRubberZ28]

Yeah that's why I'd never buy one unless I was going to put a different power train in it

[@trillrifaxegrindor4411]

72-73 ARE 25-30K

[@JBTrades_Inc.]

I know im late to this but i never been recommended this channel but now im here cause this is my DREAM CAR Since i was a little kid now im 17 and cant find 1

[@sargentthiccboi9333]

Ig I got lucky then bc I found like 3 within 150 miles of me

[@joejoyce5966]

I got 82 in mass. If you want to look at it

[@aaronsykora950]

Right on Ricky, I just received a 1979 corvette from my little brother for my 54th birthday. Could not believe my eyes! Infuckingcredible gift! Love my lil bro! Anyway, just acted to tell somebody/everybody how kool my lil bro is. Piece out, AASYKO

[@Ajs00]

love it beautiful! I would buy one for $5000 in a heartbeat

[@95TurboSol]

These things are SLOW, but the interiors look sick in my opinion, has that late 50's corvette vibe

[@DeathByLego]

They definitely aren’t slow. My TH400 hit 60 is 2nd. And that’s a shity 3 speed.

[@frankhild473]

I’ve owned two corvettes, a 1991 and a 1981. They are total money pits. If you still want to buy on and spend money to keep them on the road, buy a 1980 or earlier. They don’t have ECM computers, sensors, or digital crap.

[@Growingupinthe80s]

Nice vid. Thanks.

[@bycracky22]

Mine was 10500, after mostly restored I have 42k in it. Still need paint but the original looks good. Very rare find at 5k and i will take all you can send me at that price.

[@markko17]

I bought my first Corvette in 1981 and if somebody showed me this car and said, "$5,000", I'd tell them, "You'll have to give a lot more than that to take this piece of shit off your hands."

[@glennmerlini2895]

last good year of the c3 was 1972 chrome bumpers front and rear!

[@HectorGarcia-eo1lq]

I just bought 1981 c3 almost the same one but it needs a lot of body work. I'm dying to see it finished. where do i get all the black interior for 700 😅you have the page?

[@dave1uofm]

As a little kid my dream was to own a c3 corvette. I paid $6,000.00 well maintained. I have a brown interior hate it.

[@ajhill5094]

I had a c3. Bought for 5500 when I was 18, I loved it. Had it 10 years, put over 35k into it.... sold it for 8k. Not a good investment car lol i had a lot of fun with it, though

Don't get it for an investment

[@tommy_bluewolf2865]

Is that your daily ? Ever have any major issues ?