Outside the USA, the C3 Corvette is almost certainly the most instantly recognizable American classic car. It is cars like this 1970 Convertible that have cemented this instant recognition, and it is why these are also one of the most sought American classics across the globe. This is not just a stunning car, but it is also an original survivor. With the original 454 V8 under the hood, it should go as well as it looks. Where it needs to go now is to a new home. Located in Des Moines, Iowa, you will find the Corvette listed for sale here on eBay. There is a BIN only on this one, and this has been set at $34,900.
I don’t want to come across like a pushy car salesman here, but if this Corvette genuinely does interest you, then I would be inclined to jump on it sooner rather than later. The reason is quite simple. The Mulsanne Blue paint that it currently wears is said to be original. It has some chips and marks on it, but nothing appears to be severe for a survivor of this vintage. However, the owner is preparing to send it off to the shop for a repaint. If the buyer wants to retain this Corvette as an original survivor, I believe that they will need to act fast. Even allowing for the impending repaint, I still think that the Corvette presents beautifully. That paint continues to hold a good shine, and there are no signs of any stress cracks or issues with the fiberglass. The seller makes no mention of any rust, so it might need a check to ensure that the frame and birdcage are in good order. The exterior trim still shines well, and there are no apparent problems with the glass.
I believe that the expression is, “There’s nothing as great as a big V8.” If you subscribe to that theory, then you’ll love what’s going on under the hood. The Corvette is a numbers-matching classic and features the LS5 version of the 454ci V8. Backing this is a 4-speed manual transmission. Performance is all that you might expect from a car with 390hp on tap, but with only 3,400lbs to shift. How does a ¼ mile ET of 13.7 seconds sound? That is what is potentially locked away in this car. Frustratingly, the seller doesn’t tell us how well the Corvette runs or drives. The presentation of the engine bay is tidy for a classic of this age. That gives us some cause to be quietly confident.
The Blue vinyl interior packs a real punch, and once again, its condition is impressive for its age. There is some edge wear on the driver’s seat, along with a seam separation. However, I believe that both issues could be addressed without having to resort to a new cover. There is also some minor wear on the wheel rim, but that’s all there is to be critical of. The remaining upholstery is spotless, the dash and all of the plastic present beautifully, and there is no apparent wear or staining on the carpet. There are also no aftermarket additions. The Corvette was ordered with an AM/FM radio, and that’s what is still there. The only other box ticked was for the factory alarm system.
I will always be a sucker for an early C3 Corvette, and this one would seem to tick a lot of the right boxes. It is my honest hope that someone grabs this classic before it can find its way to the paint shop. A repaint would undoubtedly give it a lift, but it would also remove one layer of its originality. Maybe I’m wrong, or perhaps I’m missing something. If you are seriously considering this 1970 Corvette, would you buy it as it stands, or would you wait for it to come back from the shop?
They sure used a high resolution camera, when they took these pics.
Sweet ride……….
Even on the seller’s website he lacks taking the time to share more about the car. Buyers would like to see more detailed information, multiple photographs, vin number stampings, close up details, and pictures from under the car. Being a NCRS member and Corvette owner, I am disappointed that the seller claims he will increase the asking price after he repaints the car. Originality of the paint is big in the Corvette world and I am surprised by that statement. I agree that the seller should have taken the time to describe how it runs, drives, and perhaps a story of the history if known. Even his videos are lazy. Doing circles in the parking lot? Seriously, LOL
My next door neighbor had this exact car when I was a kid, except his had rusty sidepipe exhausts on it. Rode in it one time. I can recall it was probably the closest thing to liftoff g forces holding me, rather, pinning me in the passenger seat. Sweet ride .
The Mulsanne Blue looks amazing, but not a fan of the blue interior. Black or white would look much better, in my opinion.
Looks to be a good car at a reasonable price? Hmmm…..
Seller is a collector car dealership in Des Moines Iowa.
That’s why the reasonable price is surprising or maybe suspicious?
I had a 69 350/300hp car and they were fun cars not super fast but quick enough. This one has to much Blue for me. The big block cars out a lot of heat into the interior making air almost a necessity.
Biggest caveat with C3s is the bird cage rust, especially top of the windshield. Other issues on a 50 year old C3 are rear wheel bearings, non operable E brake and wiper door. Price is very reasonable, but I agree with the NCRS guy, orig paint Corvettes are far more valuable, at least to me. It is only original once. A cliche, but true. 70 454 cars are rare.
I agree Greg.
Worked on a few vettes. As stated above this car is kinda rare blue paint.
You guys are all about original.
Being a Classic car dealer selling car.
I would take a pro and pick the car apart. Just to be safe.
Nice ride.
I think the price is way ambitious. Have to be an LT-1 to command that kind of money. But good luck to seller. Looks good.
Nice Corvette, I’d like to own it but only with the original paint. In the pictures the paint doesn’t look too bad but I suppose you would have to see it in person. I did not see any mention of convertible top color. At least it doesn’t have a luggage rack.
Some very serious, very loud BLUE interior there… WOW!!
I know the blue interior isn’t for everyone, but it sure is a lot more interesting than the dull, drab colors offered on most cars today.
Leave it stock. They are only original once. Anyone can repaint a car.