On first impression it seems you could do far worse than to snap up this big block Corvette convertible for $17,500. This one came in as a reader tip from two sources; thanks to Pat L. & Patrick S. for spotting this sweet find. Billed as a one-owner car retaining its original 427 cid engine, this 1969 Chevrolet Corvette convertible in Merritt Island, Florida is listed here on craigslist and archived here on craigslistadsaver.com.
The visible condition of a fiberglass-bodied Corvette give far weaker indication of structural (or in this case birdcage rust) than a metal-bodied car. However the condition of the top and interior supports the seller’s claim that it’s been collecting dust (indoors)… since 1985! Apparently it was painted that year, but the last inspection sticker dates from 1981.
Not that you need a four-speed with a big-block, but that would certainly put this one over the top. Factory options include power steering and brakes, headrest seats, tilt-telescoping steering column, positraction, tinted glass, and the $21.10 UA6 Alarm System. The first automatic-equipped car I could tolerate had a 454 cid version of this car’s Mark IV big block and was happy to ascend any hill in top gear by torque alone… unless you felt inclined to burn up the tires.
After sitting for more than 30 years, the new owner would be advised to take precautions beyond attaching a battery, dumping gas down the carburetor and twisting the key. You have to love the late ’60s, when this car’s 390 HP L36-code 427 cid V8 sat in the middle of six engine options spanning from 300 to 430 HP (SAE gross). It’s a long way from road-worthy but who’s ready to trade $17,500 for a chance to fix up this beauty and cruise the Space Coast?
Buddy had one of these w a 4spd in Monaco Orange and black vinyl seats. Unbelievably fast at the drop of a hat. He fell asleep doing ~35mph and drove it through a dual wire retaining fence over the bank and into a lake upside down. I saved his life that day. He was never the same.
He got the car back and began rebuilding the engine only to find the new pistons and rings did not fit. Working w the parts store they figured out it wasn’t a 427 but a 396 truck engine. When he approached the person he bought it from she recalled an incredibly long repair time for some mechanical repair. Likely it was switched then somewhere in Florida. Who knows what a real 427 would have done for that car.
This one came from Oklahoma and has spent some indeterminate amount of time along the salty ocean coast. The fiberglass may not show it but I would want a private party inspection, especially for the frame.
Fun times. This is a gorgeous car.
The hits just keep on coming. This is an epic car. Un touched 427 4 speed. I may have to have this one.
Look again. Its an automatic, but dont let that stop you. Great car!
The hits just keep on coming. This is an epic car. Un touched 427. I may have to have this one.
A guy I grew up with had the clone of this car, except it had the 4-speed. He and I swapped cars for a day, and I drove it to a friend’s house to show off “My new car.” Took his little sister for a ride, I wonder if she remembers that? I sure do.
He sold the car to get married, etc… Bet he wishes he still had it. THAT was a day’s drive I’ll ALWAYS remember!
Another entry in the “Creepiest Comment of the Week (Awkward Division)” contest. I would put this in the top three.
you’re crackin me up
Great attitude. Not.
My bud wasn’t home. She asked her mom if she could go for a ride, so we went, for a short one. Sunny summer day, I went by myself out into the country. I’d owned a Chevelle SS396, so the power wasn’t the big draw, but the style and handling were great.
You are the creepy one. Where your mind circulates is in the gutter. Best keep your comments to yourself.
I always read comments with a grain of salt. We all know he, like the other two, most probably didn’t mean for it to sound that way (although the instructor whose wife was laughing- lets go get a beer together, get sense of humor), but just read it straight and the mind will raise an eyebrow. Hell, I know I’ve written/said things that can be taken wrong. I just laugh about it
Never an aficionado of big block vettes, prefered the high reving high hp 350 with manual 4 spd, have to admit once rolling they were a fun drive and the sound of tuned exhaust was great.
Always Leary of its metal rust, I almost got suckered into buying a freshly painted 69.
Guy I knew had done paint for owner of Arizona car and he said beneat that paint cover over, were repaired warpage
of many “crazed” glass rot sections.
Got hold of “original owner” of over 175,000 mile who said car since new was never under cover and sat baking under Arizona sun.
Also that 350 rebuilt twice and bored to max.
I oft wonder at some barn finds, of course we here are all honest, and if some autos were not thrown into a dry barn and reversed spayed with dirt and crud by vacuum cleaner.
Is this original paint?
Repainted in 1985 – and then stored? That seems odd.
Oh well, pretty good price for a true BB car.
I always read comments with a grain of salt. We all know he, like the other two, most probably didn’t mean for it to sound that way (although the instructor whose wife was laughing- lets go get a beer together, great sense of humor), but just read it straight and the mind will raise an eyebrow. Hell, I know I’ve written/said things that can be taken wrong. I just laugh about it
I think Alan is a little sensitive.
As new. 427/390 with 4 spd and both tops off the floor for 5200 and change
just looking at that carpet and map holder pouches….looks a little past a…..