The third generation (aka C3) of the Chevrolet Corvette was born in 1968, patterned after a Mako Shark. It proved popular enough to stick around through 1982 before the next redesign. The 1973 versions are noted for being the last ones with chrome bumpers (rear). This one needs some bodywork, paint, and detailing of the interior. It runs, but needs some adjustments after sitting for a year. Located in Huntington Station, New York, this “light” project is available here on eBay for $5,999. Another tip brought our way by “Curvette”.
This ‘Vette decodes as a fairly standard model, a coupe with the base 190 hp, L48 350 cubic inch V8. Options were a 250 hp/350 or a 275/454. It has an automatic transmission. Sales were up 12% over the 1972 models, and more than 25,500 were coupes like this one. In response to stricter DOT collision requirements, the front bumpers were now “hidden” with plastic covers. The rear bumpers would go that route in 1974, so the ‘73s were the last to have the shiny stuff out back.
The cowl tag shows a paint code of 980 (if my eyes don’t deceive me). That decodes as “Orange” instead of the medium blue covering the fiberglass body now. While the frame is said to be solid, some of the plastic panels will need some work before you apply a new finish. The tan interior looks okay, but dirty and might pass with a detailing unless you have the funds for a makeover.
New or newer partsincludes a Hooker side exhaust, tune-up, water pump, radiator, brakes, gas tank, and more. After sitting for several months to a year, you’re going to have to give the car a complete once-over before taking it out for some serious road time. Spare parts will come in boxes to help with some (if any) of the repairs that could be needed. This is a project that might be an easy piece of work, per the seller. But are any of them ever “easy”?
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