One of the greatest challenges when choosing a project candidate is finding one that won’t consume thousands of dollars and hours in rust repairs. That makes this 1970 Chevrolet Corvette worth a close look. The seller states that this dry-climate classic has no frame or birdcage issues, making it an ideal candidate for a project build. It retains its numbers-matching V8, further adding to its appeal. The seller has listed the ‘Vette here on eBay in Fabens, Texas. Bidding sits below the reserve at $510 with a BIN option of $14,000.
Chevrolet performed its first significant cosmetic upgrade to the C3 Corvette for the 1970 model year. Prompted by owner feedback, the company integrated fender flares into the lower wheel arches to protect the paint on the lower extremities from errant stones. The seller has been this car’s custodian for approximately a year, but doesn’t provide any prior history for this classic. The paint shade won’t be original, because Chevrolet discontinued Tuxedo Black as an option at the end of 1969. I also don’t believe the hood is original, but I’m happy to be corrected if I’m wrong. Fido is inspecting this classic for us, pointing out the tired paint and damaged fiberglass in the front-right corner. There are smaller cracks on the opposite side, but they all appear repairable. Most of the trim is intact, and the tinted glass is pretty respectable. I’m unsure what the deal is with the rear wheel camber. The seller doesn’t mention suspension changes, so this might be how the car landed when dropped from a trolley jack. If so, moving the Corvette should see the wheels return to their correct angle.
The seller states that this Corvette features its numbers-matching 350ci V8. It is unclear which of the three available versions this is, but it should have delivered at least 300hp and 380 ft/lbs of torque when the car was shiny and new. Power feeds to the road via a three-speed automatic transmission, with the self-shifter chosen by over 29% of buyers that year. The engine bay is as untidy as the rest of the vehicle, with the air cleaner and ignition shielding missing. It wears different valve covers and aftermarket headers, but these issues are easily addressed if the buyer prefers authenticity. The seller states that this classic runs and drives, but needs work to be roadworthy. The shopping list includes brake hoses, which are crucial if the existing ones are suspect.
Trimmed in Black vinyl, this Corvette’s interior is essentially complete. The photos suggest that the first owner didn’t splash their cash on creature comforts, because this interior doesn’t feature air conditioning, power windows, or a tilt/telescopic wheel. There is evidence of an aftermarket stereo, but not much wear and tear. It is possible that a deep clean might produce surprising results, meaning that the interior could cost more time than money to return to a presentable state.
This 1970 Corvette shows promise as a project candidate, particularly if there are no rust issues. It is largely complete, and locating the components for a faithful restoration should be relatively easy. Of course, the buyer isn’t compelled to follow that path and could decide to create the C3 of their dreams. I do believe that the BIN is slightly optimistic, considering the scope of the work required. However, the listing statistics are strong, and it only takes one enthusiast viewing this classic as an automotive “must-have” for it to find a new home. Do you think anyone will hit the button, or do you believe this auction will run to its conclusion?
Nice project Vette! It would be a great project that would be doable by those of us who aren’t professional restoration mechanics. Personally, I’d do it “my way” white with a red interior. Fido obviously has past sales experience and classic vehicle expertise as he looks very much knowledgeable about what he’s showing us. It would be cool if he went with the car as he probably knows his stuff!!