There are few accolades more highly prized by Corvette owners than a Bloomington Gold Survivor Award. This 1970 Corvette has that Certificate to confirm its originality, and the only thing this beautiful classic needs is a new home. The car has a known history, with the seller as its third owner. You will find it listed here on Craigslist in Paw Paw, Illinois. The price of admission is in keeping with the condition, with the seller setting it at $38,500. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting this beauty.
Some paint shades suit a particular classic perfectly, with a C3 Corvette and Mulsanne Blue a perfect match. The paint on this car is almost flawless, and any defects are too small to show in the supplied photos. The same is true of the fiberglass, which appears free from cracks and other problems. The seller doesn’t mention any rust problems with the frame or birdcage, but an in-person inspection is always advisable for the buyer’s peace of mind. However, the history of this ‘Vette suggests there should be no issues to cause nightmares. The trim looks excellent, as do the original Rally wheels, center caps, and trim rings. I can’t spot any glass problems; all I can see is a classic that could draw admiring crowds.
Powering this Corvette is the company’s legendary 350ci V8 that produces 300hp. The power feeds through a three-speed automatic transmission, allowing this classic to storm the ¼-mile in 15 seconds on its way to 132mph. The car is numbers-matching, with its original owner focusing on easy driving with its power steering and power brakes. The seller talks about this car’s originality but fails to mention how it runs or drives. However, the condition and lack of glaring fluid leaks suggest the news should be positive.
The original owner’s focus on comfort becomes apparent when we examine its interior appointments. They equipped the car with air conditioning, power windows, and a tilt/telescopic wheel. However, there is a later retro-style radio/cassette player occupying the spot normally reserved for the factory unit. That is the only addition to an interior that presents superbly. The Black vinyl upholstered surfaces are excellent, as are the dash, carpet, and console. There is no significant wheel wear and no signs of abuse. I am disappointed by the upgraded stereo, although sourcing the correct unit to achieve a factory appearance shouldn’t be challenging.
Some cars blend into the background like automotive chameleons, while others have a genuine “wow” factor. This 1970 Corvette falls into the second category and couldn’t help but turn heads for the right reasons. The C3 Corvette, particularly the chrome-bumper versions, remains a staple of the classic scene. Values have recently softened, although history suggests they should soon climb again. Purchasing any classic car as an investment takes a leap of faith because buyer tastes can be fickle. Today’s “must-have” can quickly become tomorrow’s faded former hero. That is unlikely to be the fate of the C3 Corvette, meaning now might be the ideal time to splash the cash on one. If you’re going to do that, what is wrong with spending the extra few dollars on a high-quality survivor like this? You know it makes sense.
Nice Vette!
That sure is one clean air filter.
I hope he gets it, but it seems a bit pricey.
Beautiful Corvette. A shame it’s an automatic.
Why?
If you have to ask, go look at a Caprice.
Oh, I get it. People who can’t drive a stick for physical reasons shoudn’t be allowed to enjoy sports cars. Completely understood. My mistake. Sorry for speaking out of turn.
Literally no one said anything like that. Obviously, people who can’t drive a stick for any reason would be looking for an automatic. Many of the rest of us prefer a manual. Both can be true at the same time.
“My wife’s 72 Ltd with 351stock out run s that in a quarter and cost $400.00just stock everything”
Mmmmhmmm…
Now , Now Children, BEHAVE OR GO SIT IN THE CORNER ! Nice Corvette in any event, a/t or 4 speed
My gut and a little research says $20k; 300 auto works against desirability BUT also means it’s not beat on. High mileage hurts too. The survivor factor could take the car to 25k maybe some more but not too much. Black interior again brings it down. Someone might be looking for this exact car and just have to have it! Good luck to the seller.
I’ve been looking and he might be a LITTLE high, but not much.
It’s difficult to find ANY descent early C3s much under $27k or so, much less a really nice car like this.
$20k early C3s are project cars.
Being a Bloomington award winner makes this a very nice corvette…they don’t give those out to anyone
Black interior brings the value down??? Huh???
That’s a cool 1970. I know the car well as I owned it from 1987-2010. Wondered where it was these days.
“My wife’s 72 Ltd with 351stock out run s that in a quarter and cost $400.00just stock everything”
ORLY?
Yeah, that guy is dreaming. A stock 72 351 has 165 HP and the car’s a boat anchor. I’d love to see it outrun any Vette.
Seller’s claim of 100 point score is a bit far fetched. There are very few Number 1 cars out there. I have judged cars and been involved in the Corvette hobby nearly 50 years. While, this is a very nice car, I see some things that judges would deduct points on. Not to nitpick, but that’s just how it is. It isn’t worth $38,000, but C3s are bringing decent money these days as C2s have priced many out of the market.
Although I owned a ’70 Vette for almost 30 years, I do not claim to be an originality expert or know how a Bloomington Gold Survivor is judged, but there is no way that this is 100% original.
Maybe it was when it won the award, but no air cleaner sticker, incorrect hose clamps, and new seat covers are just a few items that I spot right away.
It’s still a nice car, and that is a great certificate to have, but the price needs to go down to around 25K.
I have a 70 Vette with 4 Speed and it is 350 with no A/C, no power brakes or power steering. Fun to drive. Has edelbrock intake manifold and 4 barrel carburetor. Custom paint, burgundy with subtle pinstripes. It has Billet wheels and matching steering wheel. A true Sunday driver.