Chrome-bumper C3 Corvettes will always attract plenty of attention in the classics market. It is especially true if the car in question is tidy and largely original. The right combination of optional extras will continue to increase the desirability and, consequently, the potential value. This 1971 Corvette is a tidy driver, and its original owner ticked some great boxes on the Order Form. It appears to need nothing, and with the warm weather fast approaching, I can think of worse things than wandering out to find this classic sitting in your garage ready for some weekend touring. Located in Granby, Colorado, you will find the Corvette listed for sale here on Craigslist. The owner has set a sale price of $37,500, although he may entertain trades for the right vehicle. I have to say a big thank you to Barn Finder Gunter K for referring this fantastic classic to us.
The original owner ordered this Corvette in Brands Hatch Green, and not only does it look stunning, but it also represents one of several choices that I agree with. I’ve always had a soft spot for green paint, but these darker metallic shades exude an air of class and style. The owner doesn’t indicate whether the vehicle has been the recipient of any restoration work, but it is hard to fault its presentation. The paint shines beautifully, while the fiberglass beneath appears free from major flaws or cracking. The trim and glass continue this theme, as do the Rally wheels, trim rings, and center caps. I will sound a note of caution, and this is due to the background in some of the supplied photos. It seems that this ‘Vette may have seen snow during its life, but the owner doesn’t indicate whether this is a regular occurrence. That would prompt me to perform an in-person inspection, and while that may sound like a painful process, it is infinitely less so than that associated with significant rust repairs. I’m not suggesting that this car has problems, because the lack of corrosion across various aspects of this Chevrolet suggests that it has been treated with care. But it is a practice that is worth following.
The 1971 Corvette was yet to feel the full impact of tightening emission regulations, so it still offered excellent engine power and performance. This car features its numbers-matching 350ci V8 that pumps out 270hp. Shifting duties fall to a four-speed manual transmission, while the original owner ordered this classic with power steering and power brakes. That combination wasn’t the most potent in the Corvette’s 1971 armory, but it could still send the car through the ¼ mile in 15.3 seconds. The listing for this car shows an odometer reading of 66,000 miles, and while the seller makes no claims about this representing genuine miles, the car’s overall condition suggests this could be plausible. Regardless, the ‘Vette is a turnkey classic. The seller says it runs and drives extremely well, meaning the open road is beckoning this car and its lucky new owner.
Apart from the typical wrinkling on the center armrest, there aren’t many faults with this Corvette’s interior. The Black upholstered surfaces look excellent with no wear or physical damage. The carpet shows some typical light fading, but its lack of wear means it could be difficult to justify replacement. The dash looks good, and the console has avoided the wear and deterioration that can plague these classics. The owner has fitted a CD player and rear-mounted speakers. Otherwise, it remains original. Apart from the CD player, the new owner will find themselves climbing aboard a classic equipped with factory air conditioning and a tilt/telescopic wheel. The owner indicates that everything works as it should, with no electrical glitches or other problems.
In previous articles, I’ve discussed the growing desirability of chrome-bumper C3 Corvettes and how their values continue to climb. If any segment of the C3 range represents strong investment potential, it is those cars. Once Chevrolet moved away from chrome, it was a visual indicator that they were transforming the Corvette from a hard-edged sports car to a comfortable tourer. While some buyers appreciated and embraced the changes, others saw them as a form of betrayal. If you fall into the second camp and want a Corvette that is true to its sporting roots, maybe this is the car of your dreams.
This does not look like it has seen much winter driving.
Unlike this one, my own 71, which was driven in Vermont winters, clearly showed it.
Used to roll our Porsches out into the snow for pictures but never drove any of them in snow. This C3 looks to have been treated the same way. Nice car.
About to turn 60 and have loved Corvettes for as long as I can remember, but never owned one. Finally decided it’s time, but the dilemma is which generation? Can’t afford anything older than a C3, and with some green deals available on C4’s and even some C5’s it’s a tough decision. I guess it comes down to how it will be used, and I drive my stuff…a lot.
Absolutely love the steel bumper C3’s and this thing is gorgeous in Brands Hatch Green!! And they’re not likely to get much “cheaper” anytime soon. The only thing that would make it even more appealing, in my opinion, would be buckskin (?) interior. Maybe some of you with lots of Corvette experience could weigh in? Would it be wrong to do a TRX 5 speed swap and Holley Sniper fuel injection install on this car and drive the wheels off of it?? Thanks!
Agree on everything but the mods. I’d just get in and drive it… a lot.
Johan- If this car falls within your Corvette budget, you have a wide range of choices from C3 through early C7 Corvettes. I’m jealous. Have fun shopping. Be patient. There are always great Corvettes for sale. And the best investment you can make is joining NCRS for $50 prior to starting your hunt. Good luck!
Johan, best advice I can give is to drive one of each generation before you make up your mind. Here is my (limited) experience:
C3: Owned a ’70 for almost 30 years. Used to drive it everywhere, but then it became too valuable to just drive and park anywhere. Finiky on newer fuels, not a daily driver, but great for that sunny day drive to nowhere.
C4: Very tight handling compared to the C3. This is the sweet spot right now for a get in it an drive car without worrying about leaving it somewhere, or taking a long trip.
C5: I did not like driving this – felt like the Camaro I once owned, nothing special. Too big, IMO
C6: Never drove one, but sat in one a few times. Much nicer inside and seems to be the right size, again.
Prayforsnow (Did I get that right?) Nice summary. I think the C6 may be the sleeper out your group. Especially the Grand Sports at $32,000-35,000.
Thanks Frank.
Yeah, the C6 felt just right. I would love to get ahold of a convertible for a drive. Maybe someday.
Yep, PRA4SNW was a vanity plate back when I drove an A4 wagon and took it most weekends up to the mountains for skiing.
LT-1 valve covers. If this is a true LT-1 it will be gone by Monday.
No A/C available on ’71 LT1’s. This is just a nice 270 HP base coupe.
A/C was not available with the LT-1 in 71, 72 only. Also I believe the tach is incorrect for an LT-1.
We had a small group of local C3 owners and one had a ’72 LT-1 with A/C.
There probably is no records, but it would be interesting to know how many were equipped that way.
Thanks to both. It’s been too long since I owned a C3.
In regards to the LT1 engine I believe the Corvettes and Camaros were the same. This is for the Z28: AC was not available in 1970-71. It was available in 1972. I owned a 70 Z 28 and always admired the 72 LT1 model since it has AC (I live in FL). The LT1 was detuned that year but still strong and rarer (especially with AC) due to the large GM strike that occurred that year.
The C3’s are very attractive and affordable as compared to the C2’s.
I have a 1970 that I purchased from the original family. The original owner passed away and the car only has 31,000 actual miles are on it. It too is green, but in 1970 they call it Donnybrook Green. Mine has deluxe leather tan colored interior, PS, PB, Tilt wheel, AC, AM/FM, PW, PDL, and has a 350 motor with a automatic transmission. It drives like a new 1970 Corvette. It is getting NCRS judged again in March. It was NCRS judged last year and received its 2nd Flight Certification. I have been working on correcting all the small details, gathering the correct parts where needed, and am hopeful it receives a Top Flight Award this time out from our local chapter of NCRS. It has had one repaint the same color as it left the factory and although one can pick at it the paint is very nice. I’m considering selling it after NCRS.
Arizona or Southeast meet? Good luck! DON’T SELL IT!!!!!
Hey Frank,
Intermountain NW Chapter. I’m in Boise, Idaho and it will be judged in our Boise area. Your right, I will regret it, but I’m having some medical issues and really need to thin the collection. My goal was to achieve Top Flight at our local chapter, then go Regionals, followed by Nationals. With my health the way it is local will be difficult for me. Not seeing me being able, health wise, going out of state. I have invested a lot of time and money getting it to where it is at. The next owner will really benefit from this.
Sorry to hear that Greg. Best of luck to you from a fellow NCRS member. Great folks in that organization. I have purchased four Corvettes from NCRS members and each one has been exactly as advertised.
Again, best wishes to you.
Thanks Frank.
I whole heartily agree with that statement, NCRS have great people and the judging sheets tell most of all of the cars originality.
Greg, sorry to hear about your health, but glad that you were able to be a great caretaker of that ’70.
Would love to see a picture, if you feel like posting one.
Here is my ’70 in the same color scheme, which I love, before I sold it a few years back. Nowhere near perfect, but it was a really great driver with a lot of originality. I do miss it, but was happy that it went to someone who was very excited to get it.
I can text what I have on my phone if anyone is interested. I am in Boise, Idaho (208) 412-9744, but for some reason I can not upload here.
Greg Boss
This is Barn Finds at its best. Great conversation!
“Fran” ?????
240 1972 LT-1’s had A/C.
Thanks, bucky66. With the crappy record retention from the early 70’s at Chevy, I didn’t think they would have numbers for this.
Not many made.
Got it out of the Corvette Black Book. It says the number is “believed” to be 240 so while it might not be exact it should be close.
NCRS has a record tracking/build sheet/tank sticker service. It ain’t free, but if you really want or need to know about your car they are the folks to help you.
My Black Book is from 1985 I think, LOL! Time for a new one.
Frank, Nice to know about that service. Tank Stickers are an important part of documenting a C3.
I was lucky and was able to get my tank sticker off mostly intact, 15 years later. Surprising considering the car had been driven in the Northeast in the winter. Most of them are destroyed after just a few years.
@PRA4SNW- Please check me on that NCRS documentation statement. I believe I had brainlock and the Tank Stickers repros most likely are not part of the service. Sorry!
There are plenty of 71’s out there and some are cheaper. Nice looking car but I would shop around before paying that price.
Here are some pictures of Greg B’s beautiful Vette:
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The storage space is nicer than my house. And that is how it should be!
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Beautiful car! I love seeing the NCRS sticker. I will remind all (Yes: Again!) that if you own a Corvette or hope to, your best investment will be an NCRS membership. Not only do you get access to all the information you will ever need for your car, you get to meet cool people like Greg B.
Thank you Frank for the kind words.