This 1973 Chevrolet Corvette is a tidy driver-grade classic. Although it features custom paint touches, it retains its numbers-matching 454ci V8. The buyer could slip behind the wheel for immediate motoring fun while contemplating whether to treat this classic to a cosmetic refresh. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P for spotting the Corvette listed here on Craigslist in Peabody, Massachusetts. All someone needs to do is hand the seller $19,000, and they could drive it home.
The 1973 model year was a transitional one for Chevrolet’s C3 Corvette. The company replaced the chrome front bumper with a tubular unit hidden beneath a urethane cover, while the often troublesome vacuum-operated wiper door and the removable rear window on the Coupe variant disappeared at the end of 1972. This Corvette wears Classic White paint, with the seller indicating it is a driver-quality classic. There are minor chips and imperfections, while the fiberglass also has a few small cracks. However, with no major problems, those shortcomings could be addressed when, or if, the buyer felt it was appropriate. The seller supplies a few underside shots, revealing that the frame is rock-solid. The Blue stripes are an odd choice. I don’t dislike them, but with the interior trimmed in Dark Red, they don’t seem to tie in with anything. The exterior is missing a couple of badges, but the remaining trim and glass are okay.
The first owner successfully combined performance with a relaxed driving experience by ordering this Corvette with a 454ci V8, a three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. Despite tighter emissions regulations, the LS4 big-block was still a handy weapon, delivering a factory-quoted 275hp and 390 ft/lbs of torque. Admittedly, the badge lost its performance edge, but the Corvette remained one of the fastest domestic production cars in 1973. The seller confirms that this car is numbers-matching. That is just the start of the positive news, because the ‘Vette runs and drives well. Therefore, the new owner could fly in and drive this beauty home.
The interior is one of this Corvette’s most impressive attributes. Trimmed in Dark Red leather, the only apparent aftermarket addition is the CD player. The upholstered surfaces look soft and inviting, with no appreciable wear. The carpet isn’t quite as good, exhibiting slight fading and a few dirty spots. However, its condition is comfortably acceptable for a driver-grade classic. The dash and pad are spotless, and there’s no evidence of cracked or broken plastic. This interior doesn’t merely look good, because it should be extremely comfortable. Apart from the leather, the first owner equipped it with air conditioning, power windows, and a tilt/telescopic wheel.
It will be fascinating to gauge your feedback regarding this 1973 Corvette. Considering it retains its original big-block and the interior presents so nicely, would you refresh the exterior to create a “complete” package? Or would you enjoy the car in its current form? The good news is that the buyer won’t need to rush those decisions, because there are no obvious urgent needs. So, it’s over to you for comments.
It’s Red , White and Blue – as an Aussie I can clearly see why a Seppo would paint a Corvette those colours ???? :-)
Those blue stripes are butt ugly, with that red interior. Tequila influenced ?? Never been a fan of the 73′ Corvette, chrome rear bumper, with an awful looking front end. I will stick with the 72′ being the last really good looking Vette.