The term “iconic” is probably overused in the classic world, although some cars have earned the right to wear that tag. One worthy candidate is the C3 Corvette, especially the chrome-bumper models with a big-block under the hood. This 1969 example was once a dazzling beast but has fallen upon hard times. It is complete, with its engine bay housing a 427ci V8. It represents a significant restoration project, but the bidding history suggests it could be one of the most affordable vehicles of this type in the current market. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Dakota for spotting it. The Corvette is listed here on Proxibid, where the bidding currently sits at $1,500 in a No Reserve auction.
The seller indicates that this Corvette is in “as found” condition. It is unclear how long it has sat in its current location, but I always become twitchy when I see a classic sitting exposed to the elements on dirt or grass surfaces. That leaves them prone to rust issues, and this car’s frame state is unclear. It would be worth negotiating an in-person inspection to ensure potential bidders aren’t biting off more than they can choose. If the frame proves sound, the Corvette will still need to be entirely dismantled to do it justice. I don’t believe the existing paint shade is original because there appear to be hints of Monaco Orange peeking through in several places. The new owner will undoubtedly choose to strip away the paint to provide a sound foundation for their build, offering the opportunity to reverse the modifications made to the wheel arches to accommodate the larger aftermarket wheels. Some trim pieces are damaged beyond repair, with others requiring restoration to recapture their former glory.
This Corvette’s engine bay houses a 427ci V8, although it is unclear whether the car is numbers-matching. I believe this is 1-of-2,722 Corvettes ordered in 1969 with the L71 version of the big-block. It would have sent 435hp and 460 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. That made it a classic with serious performance credentials capable of storming the ¼-mile in 13.5 seconds on its way to 139mph. The seller indicates this classic doesn’t run, and there is no information on whether the motor turns freely. The news could be positive if it does, but the winning bidder would be wise to factor an engine rebuild into their restoration budget. It may prove unnecessary, but it is better to be safe than sorry.
Opening the doors reveals another aspect of this Corvette reflecting the “complete but needs love” theme. The original owner ordered this classic trimmed in Saddle vinyl. The only missing item is the steering wheel center, and the only aftermarket addition is what appears to be a Hurst shifter. The original AM/FM radio is intact, with the car also featuring power windows. The upholstered surfaces show their age, and a meticulous new owner will probably consider a retrim as part of a high-end restoration. Some parts are fit for reuse, but the shopping list will be long.
Regular readers know I am an optimist, but I approach cars like this 1969 Corvette Stingray with a degree of caution. Its viability as a project will depend on the state of the frame and birdcage, but if they are structurally sound, it could be an affordable restoration candidate. The road ahead will be long for the new owner, but the rewards could be significant. Is this a classic you might consider pursuing, or will you pass on this one?
Wow, I wonder how long these cigarette butts been sitting there. It reminded me of my father’s 65 Impala ashtray. Good old days.
The only good thing side pipes are for, is burning your legs getting in and out of the car, plus they look low class.
I would want to it put it on a rack to inspect the frame.
Where is this car located
Looks like it is in South Carolina
Rank… But they sure do sound good.
I’m pretty sure you know all about “low class”
Boooo
How do we know this a 427?this car is over 50 years old,it could be any big block ,I know a guy with a 69 that has probably 15 to 20 different engines over it’s fun life.
Wow, tough call on this one. Without a doubt a buyer will need to take this car and put on a lift and give it a good inspection. Also engine and frame serial numbers will need to be verified. Looking at the body over the rear wheels it is clearly evident they have been rubbed out to accommodate the wide rubber in the back. If you verify the engine is a 427 and it turns freely a purchase price under $5,000.00 may make it worth the money for the engine alone. If you have a numbers matching car and a good birdcage a $10,000.00 purchase price would be fair considering the costs to get the car back in good shape.
Correct the word “rubbed” to read tubbed.
Those are Hooker sidemounts. Had them on my 71 454 coupe. Yes, a girl burned her leg on them. Garbage, but they were on the car when I bought it in May 1976. If this is a legit L71, it is worth something for sure. Properly tuned and with an experienced driver, the rear tires can be gone in a matter of minutes. Been there, done that.
If it stays below 4 grand I would buy it, get it running well and lift it a little, put some mudders on the rear and use it to run around checking crops and irrigation on my fields. I think it would make it “ funner”.
4k today is like 14k. I will watch the insanity on this one.
You guys laugh all you want, if this is a numbers matching 427 four speed this car is worth looking into. If it is truly the 435 HP version they’re fetching between 60 to 100K. Once restored the tail lights are all most people are gonna see when it’s on the hwy! Definitely need to check the frame and birdcage first. I hope it finds a good home.
It’s going to cost 70k to restore it. So if you pay more than junk price you’re eazy.
The shifter console data plate screws don’t seem to be original and have been clearly removed before. Pics of the block suffix, rear control arms, diff u-joints and tachometer would have helped with identification but suspiciously missing. Needs an in person/PPI inspection before bid.
Bill of sale only. Now that Vermont won’t do out of state registration that makes a title free car like this far less valuable.
I had an engineless one of these with the Muncie in it, the 427s had a transistor box mounted on the core support, don’t see that on this one. Also need to factor in — Internet Premium : 18% Convenience Fee : 4%
I would like to bid 1600.00 hundred on the 69
Way too many questions to make an honest bid on this one. L71’s had a tri carb setup, not a Holley 4 barrel, so that’s question number 1.
Looks like a trip to SC is in order for anyone serious about this one. But, you do have 27 days to do it, that’s a LONG auction.
Wasn’t 435 hp three deuces? A single 4 BBL would be 390 hp.
Not a vette guru to be sure but the 435 was 3X2 . I don’t believe the 390 horse was the only other big option,a 425 4 v was also available. Headers carb and manifold look like replacement items. Whenever information is lacking I suspect the worst.
Yes, the 435hp 427s were three dueces.
Currently $3,200 with almost a month left before the bidding closes. It’s anyones guess what the hammer price will be but I think it’s going to be a whole lot more than where it’s at now. As others have said if the birdcage and frame pass inspection then you will have something to work with. I’d be surprised if the engine is numbers matching. But if it is then you really have some room to splash the cash on a decent driver condition restoration. And you will be a spending. So maybe it’ll make sense to someone who can do a lot of the work themselves. An in person inspection is a must that’s for sure. I believe that the Corvette experts might be making a pilgrimage to South Carolina and I wouldn’t be surprised if this finds a buyer forking over 12K or more despite the rather audacious add on fees. In the end it really all depends on the engine. Like Adam said your probably going to have to do a total rebuild and that is if you can. You know that this one has had the living daylights run out of it so are you feeling lucky? I’d really like to watch this one but I don’t want to set up a bid account. Really makes me appreciate other sites like Hemings and EBAY.
I would have to get up close and personal with this if I was to purchase this. A lot of if’s and a lot unsaid. All the money is in the motor , if it is what is claimed to be. Buyer BERWARE.
Damnit, I’d buy this ‘vette without the intent to ” restore it to return a profit” and give a damn if it’s “numbers matching”. Yeah rust issues and birdcage integrity come into play but does no one want to just have a cool car and drive it anymore? I’d love the opportunity but this hobby has lost it’s hotrodding roots to capital return investments. It makes it hard to participate.$$$$$ rule now. Oh, I’ve been into these cars since about 1966, so I believe my input to be viable. So somebody with the finances to do it ,buy the thing,pay someone to do all the hard,fun part and squirrel it away somewhere so you can talk about it and sell it for a bunch. Enjoy the journey…
Buy it to mount on your wall. Anything Cooler than this?
A punched lock?
1979?? New Mexico plates?
2000 miles from NM? In a barn for nearly 44 years?
No clear picture of vin?
Too many questions for me…
Buyer beware