There’s still enough warm weather left this Summer to offer ample opportunities for some relaxed weekend cruising behind the wheel of a classic car. What better vehicle could you choose than this spotless 1969 Corvette? It presents superbly, and its drivetrain combination means that it should possess the performance to back its good looks. The owner has decided to part with this ‘Vette, so he has listed it for sale here on craigslist. It is located in Portland, Oregon, and the owner has set the sale price at $32,500. I have to say a big thank you to Barn Finder Matt H for spotting the Chevy for us.

As you will see as we work our way through every aspect of this Monza Red Corvette, it has a lot to offer its new owner. Its overall presentation is excellent. The paint shines impressively, and as is the case with fiberglass, there are no significant flaws or problems to note. The color is consistent across all panels, and there is no evidence of cracking or issues around the bonding strips. The panels for the top are in good order, and the lack of water damage on the interior suggests that the seals are sound. The chrome shines as impressively as the paint, while the Rally wheels are not only spotless but are wrapped in a new set of Cooper tires. The side exhaust isn’t original, but it adds a touch of menace to the exterior, which is worthy of a car like this. So overall, the Corvette makes a positive first impression.

Delving below the surface of any classic car can tell you a lot about the life that it has led. Judging by the state of this Corvette’s floors and frame, it has led to a sheltered existence. To say that it is spotless would not be understating the situation. There is no evidence of any corrosion or rust and no signs of previous accident damage. It looks beautifully detailed, and the lack of stains would suggest that there have been no long-term fluid leaks. Once again, the impression is highly positive.

The original owner must’ve been seeking a blend of respectable performance and effortless driving, and this Corvette should deliver on both fronts. The engine bay is occupied by the numbers-matching L46 version of the 350ci V8. This was the first year that the 350 found its way into the Corvette, and this one should be producing a neat 350hp. All of those ponies find their way to the road via an M21 4-speed manual transmission and a 4.11 Posi rear end. Power steering and power brakes take the physical effort out of the driving experience. If the owner were to point the Corvette at a ¼ mile, the journey would be over in 14.2 seconds. It’s worth noting that while the big-block cars could improve on that figure, the small-block cars like this one have always been acknowledged as a more balanced and satisfying “driver’s” car when the going becomes twisting. It seems that this classic is in sound mechanical health. I have included a video at the bottom of this article that shows the car running and driving. It gets along nicely, with no appreciable rattles or odd noises. The strongest impression from that video is how fantastic that beautiful small-block sounds breathing through the side exhaust.

The Corvette’s interior might not be perfect, but it still looks like it would be a nice place to spend some time. It is worth noting that this is a survivor, so imperfections will be par for the course. The interior is trimmed in Black vinyl, and apart from what appears to be a mark or split that is developing on the driver’s seat and the usual wear on the console near the shifter, there’s not a lot of which to be critical. The dash is in good order, as are the door trims and carpet. There is some minor wear on the wheel, but that’s about it. If the buyer were to take this classic to a Cars & Coffee, they would not be embarrassed by the state of the interior. There aren’t many bells-and-whistles, but there is a nicely-fitted retro-look stereo. At the same time, the factory tilt/telescoping wheel should allow most drivers to achieve a comfortable seating position.

I have always liked the early C3 Corvettes, and this one looks like a beauty. It has no pressing needs, and if potential buyers seek a driver-quality car that is better than average, it would have to be a strong contender. With the ongoing popularity of the chrome-bumper Corvettes, this one might also represent a sound investment. You could pour $32,500 into stocks and shares, and you might make your fortune. It could take years, and all you will have during that time is a piece of paper. Alternatively, you could sink that sum into parking this Corvette in your garage. You could be facing a similar wait to make your fortune, but at least you would have a classic car that you could drive and enjoy in the meantime. If the stocks happen to tank, you’re left with a worthless piece of paper. If values on Corvettes do the same thing, you’d still own a classic car that you can enjoy. I know which option I’d choose. What about you?