Sometimes, the term “tidy driver” doesn’t seem to do a classic car justice. This 1969 Corvette is a prime example because while it meets that description, its drivetrain combination provides sufficient performance to satisfy the most hardened enthusiast. It spent two decades in storage in a dry climate but has recently returned to active service. Lifting its presentation would be easy, which may be one of the driving factors that has seen it attract ten bids since the seller listed it here on eBay in Peyton, Colorado. This has pushed the price beyond the reserve to $38,000.
As with most years during C3 Corvette production, Chevrolet offered buyers a choice of ten paint shades. This car rolled off the line resplendent in Riverside Gold, although it is unclear whether it has received any previous restoration work. The paint shines nicely, with the supplied photos confirming it isn’t perfect. There is one large paint chip on the nose near the passenger side headlamp and a few more minor chips spread across various locations. Touching these up would be straightforward if the winning bidder isn’t keen on a complete repaint, and a good shop should have no trouble providing a color match that would allow the car to continue functioning as a tidy driver. The ‘Vette has spent its life in dry climates, with its frame showing little beyond dry surface corrosion. Treating it before it deteriorates would be wise, but there is no evidence the structural integrity is compromised. The chrome and tinted glass are acceptable for a survivor, and the Rally wheels are in good order.
Chevrolet didn’t produce a genuinely slow version of the 1969 Corvette. It’s just that some were faster than others. This car fits into the second category, with its engine bay housing the L36 version of the legendary 427ci V8. This big-block would send 390hp to the Posi rear end via a four-speed manual transmission, with power assistance for the steering and brakes ensuring a relaxed driving experience. When driven conservatively, these cars could be quite civilized, but flooring the “loud” pedal would allow it to scorch through the ¼-mile in 13.8 seconds on the way to 150mph. The seller indicates this classic is numbers-matching. However, I noticed the original exhaust manifolds have made way for a set of headers attached to the new stainless steel exhaust with Flowmaster mufflers. The seller recently installed a new clutch, rebuilt the rear end, and replaced the u-joints in the driveshaft and rear axle shafts. The car runs and drives perfectly, ready to hit the road with a new owner behind the wheel.
Opening the doors reveals an interior trimmed in Black vinyl. The condition is acceptable for a driver, with minor seam separations beginning on the seats. The remaining vinyl and plastic look good, and the console has a few typical tiny scratches that form part of normal wear and tear. An aftermarket radio/cassette player occupies the spot reserved for the factory radio, but I can’t spot any further additions. It isn’t loaded with factory options, although the tilt/telescopic wheel will allow the driver to tailor their seating position perfectly.
It is easy to see why the bidding on this 1969 Corvette has reached its current level because it is undeniably desirable. There is time remaining on the listing for the price to climb higher, which is sure to happen. What figure do you see as realistic when the hammer falls? Would you join the bidding party at that price?
Nice honest 427 4 speed Vette in a great color. I could see 50 -60k. Too darn hard to get in and out of for me though with tired knees. I like the l36 in my 68 Impala ss.Runs light a freight train with a little lope at idle. I think production on these 427 4 speeds was around 2300.My buddy had one he sold in lemans blue and I remember looking it up Glwts.
Only thing I see that will need immediate attention is wrapping the headers if your going to keep that exhaust. Will get rid of a ton of heat under the hood. Very nice car though!
I had two ’69s, a 350-300 t-top and an L-36 convertible. I sure wish they had been ordered with the tilt-telescopic wheel..I’6’3″ and it was a bear to get in and out. Worth it, but a bear.
I have to agree with the tight and hot cockpit observations. My head scraped off the T-top and the heat radiating in from the engine compartment was beyond noticeable on a hot day. And if you don’t have a titt-telescopic steering column you need to learn how to rotate on your keister to swing your legs in. But it’s all worth it when you row through the gears and get that surge of torque pushing your back into the seat. As I’ve said before, to my eye the C3 is one of the most beautiful designs ever conceived. I love every angle and view. The proportions are perfect. One of Larry Shinoda’s best. I’m kind of kicking myself for selling my 1972 about fifteen years ago. Just driver quality, no options and base engine; but I liked driving it and loved looking at it. I’d actually like to get another but quite frankly I’m getting priced out. GLWTS.
Best color in 1969. I am pushing 70 and yes, it’s getting harder to get into my 73 coupe with no tilt wheel, but once I’m in, it’s worth it once I grab that 4 speed shifter.
I must be getting old as the gold color is appealing to me now. Of course it doesn’t hurt that the subject matter is a C3 with a 427 with a 4 speed!
BA, not old I think Refined tastes sounds much better. I agree on the gold when I was younger I hated gold and silver now i like both. Like I said refined taste.