The 1970 Corvette is a relatively low-production model, for a couple of reasons. First, a UAW strike in early 1969 resulted in a hefty order backlog for that year’s ‘Vettes. When John DeLorean joined Chevrolet in February of 1969, he decided to extend production of the ’69 Corvette into the winter to clear the order books. Consequently, the first 1970 ‘Vettes didn’t roll off the line until late February of 1970. Would-be owners were also met with a substantial price increase – to over $5,000 for the coupe. Only 10,668 coupes were sold that year. New styling cues and options were steering the ‘Vette toward the luxury sports car niche, further distinguishing this model year.  Here on craigslist is this 1970 Chevrolet Corvette, fresh out of three decades in a barn, with an asking price of $12,500. The car is located in Geneseo, New York – better bring a trailer to retrieve your prize. This tip was courtesy of Mitchell G – thanks, Mitchell!

This ‘Vette has seen a few alterations during its street life: the vacuum-actuated headlamp assemblies have been ditched for a recessed, fixed arrangement, and the car has a big block hood. Perhaps it’s the light, but the front half of the car appears whiter than the back half – whoever performed the front-end work would have had to repaint the result. Either the hood is open or it doesn’t fit correctly, and damage lurks behind the bumper. I noted above that the ’70 ‘Vette saw styling updates: egg-crate grilles replaced the ’69’s slatted version, and the same shape was installed on the front fenders, whereas the ’69 had vertical gills; the parking lights were enlarged and inset into the grille; and the tailpipes were squared off and incorporated into the bodywork.

The seller indicates that his car has its original 350 cu. in./300 hp V8 engine, four-speed transmission, and shifter. I’m going to guess it doesn’t run, so add that to the growing list of renovations that this car will need. But once it’s resurrected, the buyer will be rewarded with a sprint to sixty in slightly less than 8 seconds and a 120 mph top speed.

The interior is this car’s strong suit. The previous owner’s yen to alter his car didn’t extend to the cabin, where we find the original steering wheel, a dash in decent condition, and all trim present. The console may be cracked, and paint is missing from the door jamb – but we already know the buyer is facing a hefty expenditure of time and money to bring this car to its original state. As an alternative, a perfectly good 1970 Corvette coupe 350/300 will cost about $30k. It’s not impossible to find a nice convertible in the 1970-1972 model year range for a few grand more. What do you think – is this one worth the asking price?