UPDATE – The seller, Frank, took a few additional photos of the car and a quick video of it running. Be sure to check those out in the gallery below!
Few things are more frustrating than being in a situation where circumstances force an owner to part with a beloved project car. That is the case with this 1971 Corvette, but the buyer will reap the benefits of their hard work and dedication. Returning it to active duty would not be difficult and could be a satisfying way to occupy spare time during the cold months ahead. The ‘Vette is located in Butler, Pennsylvania, and is offered for sale exclusively here at Barn Finds Auctions.
There’s a bit to consider with this Corvette, but the news is positive. It is 1-of-1,875 cars to roll off the line in 1971 wearing Classic White. That shade was the seventh most popular of the ten Chevrolet offered in that model year, representing a take-up rate of around 8.6%. The seller added a big-block hood for a subtle touch of aggression. This item previously featured graphics, but it has been stripped and refinished and features some tasteful pinstripes for a touch of class. The fiberglass looks excellent, with no stress cracks or other problems. The trim sparkles nicely, with the chrome luggage rack a practical addition. The ‘Vette features tinted glass that looks flawless, and the birdcage is solid. The seller indicates there were issues with the rear “Torx Boxes,” But they’ve cut away the rust, and replacement steel will be welded in before the buyer takes delivery. Depending on the sale price and other factors, some extra parts may be included with this classic. These include a standard hood painted gloss Black, a set of four original AZ stamped rims (powder coated and painted grey), and four PO2 rims. The seller is approachable and is willing to honestly answer all questions and provide the shop number for interested parties.
The Corvette’s interior looks tidy, trimmed in Black vinyl, and should shine like a new penny following a deep clean. There are no glaring issues or problems, with only a few minor tasks for the buyer to consider. This was the final year the company offered the fiber optic system, and although it doesn’t currently function on this car, the seller includes a replacement for the new owner to install. The clock doesn’t work, which is one of the most common faults in a Corvette of this vintage. Several companies produce high-end replicas featuring modern internal components, and prices are competitive. The seller fitted a retro-style stereo for entertainment on the move, which integrates nicely with the original interior trim and plastic. Overall, there is no evidence of abuse or other problems, and I believe a weekend in a workshop with some high-quality detailing products would return it to its former glory. This Corvette features air conditioning and power windows for those seeking some luxury touches.
Lifting the hood of this Corvette reveals the ZQ3 version of Chevrolet’s legendary 350ci V8. This small-block sends 270hp to the rear wheels via a three-speed Hydramatic transmission, allowing the ‘Vette to storm the ¼ mile in 15.6 seconds before running out of breath at 124mph. Apart from the dust accumulated while sitting in the shop, the first thing that struck me about this engine bay was how clean and complete it is. Items like the ignition shield can often disappear, but it is intact, and like the remaining plated items, its condition is excellent. The seller indicates the car received plenty of recent attention to ensure it is mechanically sound. The list includes four new brake calipers, a new exhaust, new shocks, and numerous other suspension parts. The extensive list means the seller advises the successful bidder to treat it to a four-wheel alignment to ensure it tracks straight and true on the road. The ‘Vette runs and drives extremely well, and they hold evidence verifying a genuine odometer reading of 69,000 miles.
Once it rolls out of the local garage, the new owner won’t face much work returning the car to its rightful place on our roads. Adding the finishing touches and detailing this C3 to a high level would be a satisfying way to occupy winter, ensuring it will knock the sox off anyone who sees it when summer shows its face. I think the thing I find most attractive is the compromise it offers potential buyers. Flooring the gas would provide enough acceleration to satisfy most enthusiasts. However, leaving the transmission in “Drive” and being gentle with the right foot would offer a relaxing motoring experience representing a satisfying way to occupy a sunny day. I can’t think of a downside to that scenario. Can you?
- Location: Butler, Pennsylvania
- Mileage: 69,500
- Engine: 350 ci V8
- Transmission: Automatic
- VIN: 194371S104301
- Title Status: Clean
Bid On This Auction
Larry Masci bid $19,101.00 2022-12-08 13:59:54
AFIND bid $17,500.00 2022-12-08 12:47:25
CoolHandLuke bid $16,500.00 2022-12-08 12:22:06- Larry Masci bid $16,300.00 2022-12-07 07:36:28
gary bid $15,700.00 2022-12-07 06:27:13- Larry Masci bid $15,500.00 2022-12-05 19:32:50
JLR bid $14,100.00 2022-12-05 14:48:00- Larry Masci bid $14,000.00 2022-12-05 06:27:03
Roger Irvin bid $10,600.00 2022-12-04 17:41:18
Grumpivet bid $10,200.00 2022-12-04 17:07:11
Samm bid $10,000.00 2022-12-04 13:12:15- Roger Irvin bid $9,900.00 2022-12-04 12:43:17
- JLR bid $9,800.00 2022-12-04 11:02:45
- Larry Masci bid $9,600.00 2022-12-04 09:30:53
- Roger Irvin bid $9,500.00 2022-12-04 06:47:10
JMAC bid $9,200.00 2022-12-03 20:50:47- Roger Irvin bid $8,900.00 2022-12-03 17:29:21
- Samm bid $8,500.00 2022-12-03 14:11:42
- Roger Irvin bid $8,300.00 2022-12-03 12:14:55
- Samm bid $8,000.00 2022-12-03 11:52:26
- Roger Irvin bid $6,500.00 2022-12-03 09:33:41
- Larry Masci bid $6,100.00 2022-12-03 05:25:44
freeman bid $6,000.00 2022-12-02 16:22:35
Brian Goss bid $5,000.00 2022-12-02 16:22:07
Arthur bid $4,400.00 2022-12-02 14:37:26
Dave bid $4,000.00 2022-12-02 08:14:45
Phil bid $3,500.00 2022-12-02 06:55:24
Kookie70 bid $3,000.00 2022-12-01 23:31:37
Gary sangiacomo bid $2,500.00 2022-12-01 16:07:41- freeman bid $2,000.00 2022-12-01 15:11:39
- gary bid $1,200.00 2022-12-01 12:30:27
Projects bid $1,000.00 2022-12-01 09:28:41
I am slightly disappointed, I wanted to see more pictures of the wheels…
Nicely well kept and maintained car and will make an excellent driver.
I’m not sure what the seller is referring to as the torx boxes, so that would need to be clarified and confirmed it was repaired properly. Other than that question, the rest of the car looks good to me and appears to have the potential for being a great cruiser.
I think Torx Boxes was a professional wrestler in the ’70s.
There is one piece of ignition shielding showing. There are, I think, seven pieces to a set. It’s not a huge deal…just a pet peeve that people blow it off because it’s a bit of a hassle to install/remove.
I am the seller, here is what the mechanic means. “The rear torque box is designed to “box in” the area just in front of the rear leaf spring front hanger. It adds the missing pieces between the factory frame rail section, the front spring hanger longitudinal and the rocker box. “
The car will have those sections done before the buyer get the car. Also The inspection sticker was 2020. The car is registered as a classic/ antique in PA and no inspection is required. ( the PO) had done the inspections anyway. I did not since I changed the registration.
Seeing as how these cars have a single, transverse leaf spring (meaning the spring goes from left to right on the car as opposed to front to rear like on a car with two leaf springs) it is still a bit of a question about what exactly is being referred to here.
If you send me a email I’ll send you a picture I can’t copy and paste it on here.
Frank: most of the frame is boxed, not U channel. All of frame is subject to torque when you nail the gas pedal, your mechanic using the term torque box for corvette frame sections is not common. Ford & Mopar people use that term on unibody cars (no frame), & are referring to the sheetmetal square-ish sort-of shoebox sized components down low in front of rear tire where spring mounts. Ford has a wheel chock looking one under front floor. This is why corvette guys are scratching their heads with this verbiage….
@Joe Bru, Your assessment is correct he’s a old school guy and that’s what he calls it. Where you describe is what is being replaced. It’s not terrible and car could be driven and fixed down the road, but I won’t sell it that way and the new owner will be spared the cost and time at my expense. I’m just honest that way. Thanks again for the explaining hope it helps some folks out.
Too bad it was painted.
It was repainted in the original color by the previous owner who added a little “pearl to the to the white” a good buffing and wax makes it look really nice considering it’s an older repaint. A few all chips here and there. But not bad at all
I owned a ’70 version of this car, as far as driveline and options are concerned, for several years. It was a very good driving, very reliable car. Even when it got up around 150K miles, I would not have hesitated to drive it anywhere. I did upgrade the brakes and paint it, but a training arm bearing was the only repair I ever had to make. If it would have been a manual trans I might still have it.
As nice as the Vette seems to be, I’m surprised how low the bidding is at this time.
That is a very nice looking vette. A friend of mine had a 71. With a automatic 454. Only thing I did not like about it. In the summer time it would burn your feet up. It didn,t have air condition or vents in it.. I realy like this car and would think the low bids–are a insult.
It would be great to see a picture of the trim tag. Do the headlights and wiper door work? Need better clarification of the “torx box repair” and pictures posted of that as well
I can get a picture on Monday not sure how I can post it though. Headlights and wipers/door work as intended. New vacuum lines for the wiper door. The Torx Box explained in a previous reply. ( Will be repaired with new panels welded in, old ones cut out) before new owner takes possession.
Hi, international buyer here. Would you be ok with selling the car but holding onto it for a few weeks until I could travel there so we can do the paperwork? Also, would you be able to take payment via square or another card processor? I can cover the fee.
If you are the high bidder and meet the reserve the garage will hold on to the car for a while if needed.
i googled 1971 corvette torque box . and there is loads of info including before and after install . maybe it can be posted on you tube…
Did not see anything for a corvette several for a Camaro. It’s different for the corvette.
It’s at the lower wheel well opening just under where the Trailing arm goes in. (If that makes any sense) I’ll get more specific pictures on Monday
1971 corvette torque box R& R…
Frank, can I come down to look at the car in the next couple days? How do I get your email address?
It’s posted
am I able to come look at the car?
Franksave30@aol.com. It’s at “Inspection plus garage” Butler. PA.
Congrats to Frank and Larry on a successful auction! We hope Larry will keep us posted on this one.
Wow that seems like a bargain. Congrats to the buyer
What a fun car