Restoration Required: 1970 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible L46

If you compiled a list of classic American cars with styling that achieved global recognition, the First Generation Mustang would be an obvious inclusion. Another would undoubtedly be the C3 Corvette. It possesses the right level of aggression to capture hearts and imaginations, and pristine “chrome-bumper” cars continue to command impressive prices. This 1970 Convertible hales from that era, although it requires a lot of work before being considered pristine. The seller is candid about its needs but offers a tempting alternative that would address some of its worst woes. They also include its original potent V8 that has been partially rebuilt. The Convertible is listed here on eBay in Flat Rock, Michigan. Bidding sits at $6,100, which is above the reserve.

Chevrolet offered Corvette buyers eleven paint shades in 1970, with this car’s first owner choosing Marlboro Maroon. They teamed this with a Black soft-top and a factory hardtop finished with Black vinyl. The seller admits they have too many projects and want to move this Corvette to a new home. It makes a reasonable first impression because although the paint is tired, the fiberglass looks surprisingly good. A close inspection will probably reveal minor flaws, but preparing the exterior for fresh paint is a task the new owner might tackle in a home workshop. However, deeper problems mean the restoration won’t be a walk in the park. The seller indicates there is birdcage rust but not how extensive it is. Therefore, a nut-and-bolt approach is warranted to ensure the car is structurally sound. Similar issues with the frame may cause some to throw their hands in the air and consign this Corvette to the “too-hard” basket. There is an alternative, and it might be worth investigating. The seller owns another frame, which is listed here on eBay. It is in good order, with no bends, physical damage, or penetrating rust. Purchasing this would add to the budget but could be the easiest way to achieve a rust-free status. Some trim pieces require TLC, but the tinted glass looks okay.

Chevrolet increased the capacity of its small-block V8 in 1969, stretching it from 327ci to 350ci. The entry-level engine for 1970 remained the ZQ3, which delivered 300hp and 380 ft/lbs of torque. Those seeking more under the right foot could splash $158 on the L46 version, which brought 350hp and 380 ft/lbs to the table. Was the expense justified? The engine slashed the ¼-mile ET from 14.8 seconds to 14.2 seconds. With the top speed increasing from 123mph to 142mph, the L46 represented pretty decent value for money. This Corvette retains its numbers-matching L46, with the bottom end rebuilt and the original cylinder heads awaiting installation. The radiator and original 4-speed manual transmission are intact, as are the shroud, air cleaner, and power steering pump. I can’t tell whether ancillaries like the carburetor and alternator are present, so the new owner may need to go on a spending spree before this small-block roars into life once again.

The interior shots are poor, making it impossible to assess its condition accurately. The Trim Tag confirms it rolled off the line trimmed in Black vinyl, and the carpet is missing. The remaining items are pretty dirty, and a deep clean will be the first step in determining what items will join the carpet on a shopping list. The first owner focused on performance, not opting for features like air conditioning or power windows. However, the tilt/telescopic wheel and AM/FM radio are welcome inclusions.

Restoring this 1970 Corvette Convertible won’t be for the faint-hearted, and it will be fascinating to learn whether our readers would splash the extra cash on the spare frame to ease the build pressure. Bidding has been relatively subdued, suggesting some may see this as more than they can handle. However, the potential value locked up in this classic makes it worth a closer look. Are you tempted, or will you pass on this project?