questions

[Sabrina S.]

Hi my name is Sabrina. I am a fanatic about old vettes, but my problem is that I am planning on buying one and fixing it up. However I do not know a whole lot about them. I have narrowed my decision down to a 69,73,75,or 79. I need to know some specifics about which ones are the hardest to restore and require the most maintenance engine wise. Also if you know of any really informative sites about engines etc, I would appreciate the help. Oh also, is there a difference between a stingray and a "plain" old model vette? Thanks for the help!!!

Sabrina

[Paul B.]

Re: questions

Sabrina, they are all good choices for Corvettes, however the '69 and '73 would'nt have HEI electronic ignition modules that could go bad and also did'nt have catalytic converters from the factory. The '69 and '73 are simpler maintenance cars, but are still Corvettes which from time to time do need extra care and maintenance than every day driving cars. Also expect to pay more for the '69 being an early bumper shark car. The '73, '75 and '79 can be bought for about the same price based on condition.

[Paul B.]

Re: questions

Sabrina, they are all good choices for Corvettes, however the '69 and '73 would'nt have HEI electronic ignition modules that could go bad and also did'nt have catalytic converters from the factory. The '69 and '73 are simpler maintenance cars, but are still Corvettes which from time to time do need extra care and maintenance than every day driving cars. Also expect to pay more for the '69 being an early bumper shark car. The '73, '75 and '79 can be bought for about the same price based on condition.

[Chuck G.]

Re: questions

Hello Sabrina; All Corvettes are great, it depends on what you want. All Corvettes from 63 up through 82 could technically be referred to as "Stingray's". That is not a special designation. In 69 and 73, you would have the option of big block vs. small block, coupe vs. convertible. 1975 and 1979 were all small blocks with "high performance" and "standard" options. 1975 was the last year for the shark style convertible. 1979's would all be coupes. Lots of options. Pick what you like. As far as restoration is concerned, if you're talking about paint, interior, etc., they would all be the same in my opinion. If you're talking about mechancical restoration, the 69 was probably less complicated in design. It doesn't have as many emissions controls, etc., as the later models. Hope this helps. Chuck Gongloff

[Chuck G.]

Re: questions

Hello Sabrina; All Corvettes are great, it depends on what you want. All Corvettes from 63 up through 82 could technically be referred to as "Stingray's". That is not a special designation. In 69 and 73, you would have the option of big block vs. small block, coupe vs. convertible. 1975 and 1979 were all small blocks with "high performance" and "standard" options. 1975 was the last year for the shark style convertible. 1979's would all be coupes. Lots of options. Pick what you like. As far as restoration is concerned, if you're talking about paint, interior, etc., they would all be the same in my opinion. If you're talking about mechancical restoration, the 69 was probably less complicated in design. It doesn't have as many emissions controls, etc., as the later models. Hope this helps. Chuck Gongloff

[Dwight Farmer]

Re: questions

Sabrina: I know you didn't mention '74. But since you indicated you are a fanatic, I am the original owner of a '74 T-Top with 44,000 miles. It was judged a 4 star bow tie by NCRS. I have window sticker, order forms, all paperwork and records. It is Corvette Orange with Saddle interior, PS, Air Conditioning and a 4 speed. It is in very original and excellent condition if you are interested. You can reach me directly at dfarmer@hrpdc.seva.net or at home at (757) 538-8865 in the evening. I am looking for a nice home for this car. As you can tell my wife and I have had it a long time and would hope to find someone who is a "fanatic".

[Dwight Farmer]

Re: questions

Sabrina: I know you didn't mention '74. But since you indicated you are a fanatic, I am the original owner of a '74 T-Top with 44,000 miles. It was judged a 4 star bow tie by NCRS. I have window sticker, order forms, all paperwork and records. It is Corvette Orange with Saddle interior, PS, Air Conditioning and a 4 speed. It is in very original and excellent condition if you are interested. You can reach me directly at dfarmer@hrpdc.seva.net or at home at (757) 538-8865 in the evening. I am looking for a nice home for this car. As you can tell my wife and I have had it a long time and would hope to find someone who is a "fanatic".

[Sabrina S.]

Re: questions

thank you all three guys for so much help. it will definitely help me decide which one to get. also, i will be keeping in touch with you to bring you up to date on my purchase and forward movements for a corvette. the only thing i am unsure about is the reason they call it "shark style". and why did they stop making it? thanks for your help!!! sincerely, sabrina s.

[Sabrina S.]

Re: questions

thank you all three guys for so much help. it will definitely help me decide which one to get. also, i will be keeping in touch with you to bring you up to date on my purchase and forward movements for a corvette. the only thing i am unsure about is the reason they call it "shark style". and why did they stop making it? thanks for your help!!! sincerely, sabrina s.