With such a long production run, it’s no wonder that values for the Chevrolet Corvette vary from through the roof to almost unbelievably affordable. Some of the mid-to-late C3 examples still fall into the budget-friendly category, with this 1977 model here on Craigslist in Huntington, New York, priced at only $2,700. It’s essential to know upfront that this one is a non-running project, but fortunately, it’s largely original and mostly complete. Hopefully, with the low initial investment, the future owner will still have some funds left to get this one fixed up and ready to drive again. Our thanks go out to reader Tony Primo for the tip here!
According to the seller, this Corvette has been under the same ownership for the last four decades, but it’s also been off the road for approximately 15 years. There’s no word on why this one got neglected instead of being properly cared for, but the price seems to reflect the condition here, so this might be a good deal for somebody with a strong set of all-around restoration skills. The panels appear to all be intact, although the passenger side fender and hood don’t line up exactly right, but hopefully, all that will be required is some adjusting. Maybe sooner than later, this ‘Vette will have a shiny new red paint job and be beautiful once again.
Only this one photo is provided from the bay, with few details given regarding the engine other than a mileage listing of 118,000, plus the seller stating a couple of parts will need replacing to get it up and running again, specifically a new starter and battery. I can’t fathom such a simple repair allowing me to kick my Corvette to the curb, and with such a long time not being driven, there’s a possibility that additional mechanical issues will also require attention. The only information shared about the transmission is that it’s an automatic.
The overall condition of the interior is somewhat average, but pretty much complete, minus the horn button on the steering wheel. Some sort of aftermarket Stereo has been added, and the Corvette bag makes it difficult to surmise what kind of shape the passenger seat is in. However, for $2,700, I’m finding it difficult to spot very much to complain about here, and my gut is that this one could be decent project material for the cost. What are your perceptions on this 1977 Chevrolet Corvette? Is this one a potentially good deal at $2,700?
The ad states the frame is solid. But with no pics, do we know that’s true? And the all important bird cage receives no mention. If those are solid it seems like a reasonable one to consider. I’d want to see it first looking that neglected in NY.
Could be a fun project… Or a money pit for a car that brings no money….
Unless you’re building it because you want one. Novel concept I know, in a world full of people raised on auction shows.
Original with headers?
77 and 78 Vettes…among the best sales years ever and among the lowest horsepower ratings
With all that rust in the engine bay, was this a hurricane Sandy car?,?
I was thinking it sat outside for a long time, exposed to the elements & not running.
I have learned that ANY car from that area of the country is a hard pass . Nothing but rust and rot is to be had .and this one looks the part .
I’m suspecting a flood car. I believe some parts of Long Island had some major flooding issues at that time.
There is a yellow one on Hibid in Blaine Washington that needs the rear section otherwise the car runs and drives fine I personally have never been in a Corvette or had the opportunity to work on one but this has me thinking about buying both and using the red one for parts so I would then have another car that’s not super fast but has enough power to get me in trouble with the local police and would give me experience on how to work on them
They are 3000 miles apart…a minor logistics issue?
This poor car looks like an old Matchbox! You have to feel a little sad for these disco vettes, because like that era, a lot of blow and show, but not so much go. I think Troy has the right idea, make it a donor car and turn a disposable car in to a keeper : )
The car is by the ocean. Was the ocean too near the car? The underhood rust could just be from the salt air. Maybe. Underneath viewing would be essential.
Just me, headers alone would not be worth the effort but…with the genuine full race chromium plated T bar valve cover bolts…perhaps the engine internals have been doctored. However, with the (apparently) stock intake and carb the T bars might just be dress up items.
Gee, the back half of the valve cover didn’t rust…was that because the engine was always needing oil?
The price and rust under the hood should be telling you RUN …LOL