The Chevrolet Corvette was a pretty potent package in 1969, with its entry-level small-block placing 300hp at the driver’s disposal. However, our feature ‘Vette takes that to a higher level, with the seller holding dyno sheets confirming that the Crate Motor hiding under the hood delivers considerably more. It is a tidy and clean classic with only minor cosmetic needs. The time has come for this beast to find a new home, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting the Corvette listed here on Craigslist in Hackensack, New Jersey. Handing the seller $22,995 will allow you to take this classic home.
After creating a sensation upon its release in 1968, Chevrolet made no significant cosmetic changes to the C3 Corvette for the 1969 model year. This didn’t deter buyers, with the badge selling in impressive numbers. The history of our feature car is slightly cloudy, although the seller confirms that they purchased the vehicle via a Mecum auction in 2015. They have been its custodian for a decade, and it has remained garage-kept during that time, when it isn’t roaming the streets. The seller has avoided exposing it to rain or any of Mother Nature’s other nasties, allowing the car to remain rust-free. The Monza Red paint holds an impressive shine, and cosmetic imperfections seem to be restricted to one area on the vehicle’s rear. The cause of the problem isn’t specified, but the seller states that the fiberglass is unaffected. The trim and glass look nice, and the new owner can choose between hitting the road with the translucent Astro Top in place or the original T-Top panels. The final piece of the puzzle is the side exhaust, suggesting that there might be more to this classic than meets the eye.
The biggest change that Chevrolet made to the Corvette for the 1969 model year was to increase the capacity of its small-block V8 from 327ci to 350ci. It proved to be more popular than the optional big-blocks, with the 350 accounting for almost 60% of total sales. It is unclear which version of the 350 this car originally housed, but that has been rendered irrelevant by the installation of a Summit Crate Motor. The seller holds dyno sheets for the engine, confirming that it produces 372hp. This is more than Chevrolet’s iconic L46 version churns out, promising an exhilarating driving experience. The power feeds to the road via a four-speed Muncie transmission, with power-assisted steering and brakes rounding out the package. The seller admits that the transmission currently leaks from the tailshaft seal, a fault that should be relatively cheap and easy to fix. Otherwise, it runs and drives perfectly, and can be considered a turnkey proposition.
The first owner teamed this Corvette’s Monza Red exterior with an interior trimmed in Black leather, and there is not much to criticize about its current condition. There is no significant wear, the dash looks really good, and nothing has raised the white flag due to age or UV exposure. The seller states that the odometer is inoperative, but it appears that there are no other functional faults. Considering the mechanical changes made during this car’s life, most potential buyers won’t consider the modern stereo to be a negative factor when assessing whether to give this classic a new home.
The 1969 model year was the most successful for the Corvette since the badge first appeared in 1953. A record 38,462 buyers took one home that year, and the volume would climb during the 1970s. Our feature car is a tidy vehicle with only minor cosmetic needs. The Crate Motor will provide a welcome performance improvement from a car that would have already satisfied most owners. The seller’s price seems quite reasonable, making it surprising that this beast has spent over three weeks on the market. Do you think it will find a new home, or will potential buyers find the engine change off-putting?
Fun ride for sure and resale red. Maybe some suspension work and really hammer. Any one have any seat time with the Astro Top? I almost bought them for my 1972 but decided against it. Maybe kind of cool when it is raining, I like the visual on my sunroof cars. They were pretty expensive if I remember correctly. Beautiful rig. Nice write up Adam, and a great find Mitchell G.
Hey Mike, I noticed that top in one of the pictures and didn’t know they made them for the Vette.
They make them for the Bronco and thought about getting one. Instead, I bought some hinges that allow the roof panels to be flipped onto the back roof, making it so you don’t have to store them inside the vehicle.
Hi Dennis, I think you made the right move. Take care, Mike.
Don’t like any leaks 😒
Nice. A genuine hot rod in the right color and with the right engine. Pull the tops and have fun in the sun.
Knowing sidepipes, the other tenants here may not b 2 happy if this is started in the garage early on a sadday or sunday mornin, going to a car show.
Barring an in-person inspection, this little cutie appears to be a pretty good prospect. Not much to fault with its presentation and looks well cared for. This is probably one of the more reasonable prices for a Vette the I am accustomed to seeing on Barn Finds.
A 350 with a reasonable cam, four barrel, and 4sp was the best way to go with these. I drove a few like that, and also some big blocks. The smaller engine was so much better. As far as I am concerned, a Chevy small block rules. Always has, always will. The are legendary for good reason.
Is the owner flipping the car? New York plates on the car.
Thanks. I was getting ready to ask about the NY plates and registration window sticker. Garage space must be really tough to find in that area.
“cheap and easy” Adam