The seller states that this 1971 Corvette Convertible is a driver, not a garage queen. That seems to be a fair assessment, as while it has a few flaws, it is a tidy, turnkey vehicle that the new owner could enjoy immediately. The fact that a previous owner treated the mechanical components to a rebuild means that the buyer won’t need to spend a dime on its drivetrain. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting the Corvette listed here on Craigslist in Radnor, Pennsylvania. You could drive this classic away for $22,000, making the most of this summer’s remaining sunny weather.

The 1971 model year was an evolutionary one for the C3 Corvette, with the latest offering almost indistinguishable from the previous model year. The company added seven new paint shades to the 1971 Corvette’s color palette, including the Mille Miglia Red chosen by this car’s first owner. The Black soft-top provides an excellent contrast, while the color-matched factory hardtop will provide all-weather protection. This classic presents nicely for its age, with no major paint imperfections. There are no signs of fiberglass distress, and the seller doesn’t mention rust problems with the frame or birdcage. The sparkling trim and clear original glass help to reinforce this car’s positive impression, as do the Rally wheels that are free from stains and damage.

Purists will welcome the news that this Corvette is numbers-matching. The seller states that the previous owner rebuilt the 350ci V8, four-speed manual transmission, and the rear end. That means that this ZQ3 small-block should go close to producing the 270hp and 360 ft/lbs of torque quoted by the factory. Both figures are lower than those available to Corvette drivers in 1970 as Chevrolet reduced the motor’s compression ratio to cope with lower octane fuel. However, the performance was still pretty respectable, and it wasn’t until later in the decade that the Corvette would be reduced to a shadow of its former self. The previous owner’s attention to this car’s mechanical components is good news for potential buyers, with the seller stating that the vehicle drives beautifully.

The first owner may not have spent a fortune on optional drivetrain components when ordering this Corvette, but they equipped the interior with Black leather trim, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio. The presentation is acceptable for a driver-grade classic, with no pressing needs requiring immediate attention. The seatcovers exhibit physical damage, especially on the passenger seat, and the carpet shows wear in the front footwell. Leaving these items untouched is an option, but some enthusiasts might find the lure of new leather covers irresistible. They will probably consider this carefully, because a set in the correct color will lighten their wallet by over $900. It is also worth noting that replacing the foam at the same time would be wise, adding a further $260 to the tally. Alternatively, floor mats and slipcovers would be an affordable option that would hide those issues. The A/C also requires attention, although leaving it as-is and dropping the top will provide all of the cooling air anyone would want for free.

Driver-grade classics are always attractive propositions because they offer the opportunity for a relaxed ownership experience. Lucky individuals can hit the road and enjoy all that these cars offer, safe in the knowledge that an errant stone won’t mar perfection. That is the opportunity offered by this 1971 Corvette Convertible. It could turn heads in its current form, but there is scope for the buyer to lift its appearance by addressing its interior shortcomings as time and circumstances allow. The seller’s price looks quite competitive, especially when we consider the scope of the mechanical refresh it has received. However, this Corvette has been on the market for three weeks, suggesting that the seller hasn’t been inundated with inquiries. Are you tempted to address that situation, or doesn’t this classic tick the boxes for you?