1964 values

**Jack Humphrey (17100)** · September 30, 2006, 10:16 AM

Re: 1964 values

Some cars command higher values than others due to their 'popularity'. Values will vary with model year as well as vehicle configuration. Example, '63 convertibles generally command significantly less money than the coupe because the 'split window' was a one-year-only design, while with other mid-year cars the convertible version generally has a higher value relative to the coupe.

In terms of whether or not a given car merits restoration based on current resale survey data, that's a personal decision. Most of us in this 'sport/hobby' execute restorations for the love and fun of it, trying not to break the economic envelope too much. The payback is primarily one of pride, challenge, and entertainment + the finished 'product' being a valid hedge against inflation rather than a turn-key profit generator.

In most cases, the instantaneous result of a restoration is either a 'break even' financial situation or a modest lost that's recouped with the passage of time and generally escalating market prices. FEW, are lucky enough to buy the target car cheap enough, or execute the restoration with sufficient cost control to generate an immediate profit upon completion.

I'd agree with you that '64 models offer some resale disparity relative to other mid-year cars of equivalent configuration, but '63 convertibles tend to sell cheaper than other years and '66 big blocks are generally less expensive than either '65 or '67's. That's life...

**Jim Trekell (22375)** · September 30, 2006, 10:37 AM

Re: 1964 values

I like 64 Corvettes and wish I still had my 327/300 4-speed 3:08 and air conditioned convertible. Two things that may affect the lower prices of 64's is that the 65-67's had disc brakes and big blocks. As we all see the 427/435 HP Corvettes sell for the most money and their price has some affect the rest of the production. The one's that sell for the most money usually do not get on the road much. If you put the money into your 64's restoration as if it was a 67 427/435 you may end up with a 64 that someone would not buy if sold for what you have invested. Doing all the actual restoration yourself, including the exterior painting could money in your pocket for some of your labor. You have purchased a desirable high performance 64. Having power brakes your 64 will have overall better braking than 65-67 without power brakes in my opinion. Since your engine is apart the past posts about earlier 327's having the connection rods replaced due to age and stress, are you going to do this?
My original owner 68 327/350 4-speed 3:70 convertible is not as desirable as the 427/435 C3's and other later model C3's, that is just the way it is. I just drive it and enjoy my Corvette.

**Jordan Grant** · September 30, 2006, 12:39 PM

Re: 1964 values

Thanks guys..All responses right in line with what I suspected.I agree that handling alot of the work personally is a wise decision if I want to realize a "plus"or break even but at the same time am not unrealistic enough to start tearing into it if I have reservations about how well I will do on each particular aspect of the job.The one thing you did point out is a 100% restored(i.e. judged in my mind)is not a car that would be driven so I at least know I can scale back part of the work.

On top of finally talking this older gentlemen to part with his car,we agreed that I could purchase "all"the parts he has purchased through the years(and they are many,pistons,rods included)I am one step closer to having it done as cheapl? as possible.Thanks for the valuable insight!.Jordan

1964 values

1964 values

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