Still a bargain classic, the third-generation Corvette, the “C3,” sometimes gets a bad rap since most of the 1968-1983 model run occurred during the “malaise era” when pollution regulations and a focus on fuel economy led to tragically low horsepower numbers per cubic inch of engine displacement. This 1971 Chevrolet Corvette in Northford, Connecticut wears a different car’s nose, but the seller here on eBay reports the 454 cubic inch big block has been rebuilt, and other new parts sweeten the deal on this New England classic. An automatic transmission handles the gear changes. Thanks to reader Larry D. for spotting this mixed bag C3.
Reading between the lines, we see what looks like a well put-together big block with aftermarket parts like headers and air cleaner cover. What happened after installation evades the 33 word listing, along with any details on the rebuild. Few enthusiasts would go with an all-stock engine job, and we’d expect some power-adding goodness lies inside. However the seller makes no horsepower estimate and does not claim this is the original mill. Chevy offered two 454 cid (7.4L) options in the ’71 Corvette, according to CorvetteMuseum, making 365 and 425 HP, and you know that big block torque means this motor could spend most of its life under 2000 RPM while still threatening to turn the tires if you cough while resting your foot on the gas pedal.
Far from a turn-key cruiser, this Chevy needs attention from fiberglass nose to tail. I can’t blame the owner for not emptying the parts stash on what looks like a rainy fall day, but don’t let the fiberglass body let you think that “America’s Sports Car” is impervious to rust, because a rusty superstructure or “bird cage” underpinning the ‘glass body takes decidedly more effort to correct than a typical all-metal restoration.
Though not visible in these pictures, the 1971 C3 wore chrome bumpers, a bonus for collectors that went away in 1973. I’ve never owned a Corvette, but I appreciate their unique and storied place in American automotive history. Personally, I’ve thought about buying a big-block C3 project car, though I’d probably hold out for a four-speed manual gearbox. Would you take a chance on this 454 project ‘Vette?
Now there’s a challenge, both in money and time. Could be a good project but you’re looking at a lot of work to restore this car.
I have owned a couple of Corvettes, a 1964 coupe and a ‘76. Regarding the C3’s, I remember reading that GM only built 10 1983’s and destroyed all of them. However, if you know where one is let me know. Call me at BR-549.
Sole survivor 83 is in the Corvette Museum. Turns out it was stuck in the back 40 and left there till it was rediscovered.
Thanks for the replies telling me about this! I also remember reading an article that was an interview of Charleston Heston in the Parade magazine where he said he had a 1983 Corvette. I doubt even he has the money to buy it off of GM.
Bamapoppy, there is one 83 Corvette at the National Corvette Museum. There are a number of articles about it, here is what their web site says: “Of the 43 prototypes and pilot line cars, only one, a pilot-line car with VIN 1G1AY0783D5110023 remains. This literally one of a kind Corvette and piece of history is on permanent display at the National Corvette Museum.”
The story I read said that GM intended to destroy all of them, but one got parked and forgotten about. That’s why it survived. Good luck persuading them to sell it to you.
“They delayed the C4 Vette by a year to make it the best it could be”, so when they came out in ’84 they couldn’t get out of their own way, thanks to the “Cross-Fire” 350.
Restoration of this car is quite a undertaking? The body work doesn’t bother me. It’s them taking the dash out of the car does? Unless your a wiring expert. Big block car though.
Sorry but IMO this would have to be a labor of love to bring this one back in addition to having a deep pocket book. I’d be more inclined to save the drive train and part out the rest to allow some other cars to reenter the driving world. In addition to all the obvious, there’s no telling the condition of the frame and birdcage.
Good luck if anyone is willing to put down some $$ on this one.
I don’t know Corvettes that well over $7k for this. I don’t know if it would be cheaper just to buy one in original condition or restore this one. Of course I could buy it and try to restore it this would be my first attempt at such a project and judging by the pictures I don’t think I could screw it up any worse.
1971 Chevrolet Corvette Project? More like a reject.
has a 1968 or 1969 nose on it let it rot
Would say 69 as it has the chrome vents bezels.
Although desirable, the Big Block C3 does not have the $$ value like the BB C2 does.
This would be a waste of money and time.