As the years pass all classic car enthusiasts reflect on the one that got away or have some kind of regret over selling a classic car, just to find it worth a small fortune a few years later. Unfortunately, we can’t see into the future, but we can analyze the past and utilize the present to make a better investment for the future. In analyzing many different classic cars, MyclassicNEWS feels that the C3 Corvette is at a place on the sales graph that presents a great opportunity for the future.
We watched as the 1950 model Corvettes and the C2’s climbed on the sales axis until certain body styles were out of reach and the big blocks followed.
When the C3 was introduced in 1968 the Corvette’s sleek body style drew immediate attention. Many called this new body style the “Shark”. At that time the convertible and the 427, depending on horsepower, was an extra add-on option, but in the dollar value of the day it was not as significant compared to modern times.
Rick Duncan, President of MyclassicNEWS said: “I bought my first corvette in 1978 and have always been a Vette enthusiast. As a rule of thumb, if I shopped around and bought my Vettes over the years, excluding new ones, for a fair price, I’ve always had fun with the cars and sold them with very little or no loss. But I can tell you, in reviewing the C3’s at auctions all over the country, I do feel that now is the time to buy, whether it be for fun or for an investment.”
As with anything, you’re not going to get rich overnight, but when you dissect the C3 prices from 1968 to 1982, there are some fantastic opportunities that present themselves. If you are only looking to have some fun in a cool looking car, there are some C3 buys out there for around 10k. Yes, you can can find them cheaper, but those are primarily project cars. Then there are the rare low mileage original C3’s and the #1 and high #2 C3’s that are bringing premiums, but even the nice drivers are obtainable from 10 to 20k.
We are already seeing the big block, convertible and special edition C3’s increase in value and it’s just a matter of time before the 350ci coupes start creeping higher. Just 10 years ago a nice basic C3 could be in your garage for well less than 10k, but that’s not the case today. The negative that is brought up over and over again is that during the mid 70’s, with all the fuel efficiency and regulations, the Corvettes just weren’t fast enough, but from the mid 70’s to the early 80’s when the Corvette boasted only the 350ci, an opportunity exists. No, they’re not supercars, but they are faster than many vehicles of those years and they look good. In 1980 the ground effects changed the C3’s look, but it is a matter of opinion. If you don’t like the ground effects, back off to a 78 or 79. If you don’t like the sloped window, go to the 77 or older. On an interesting note, many Corvette buyers were putting aftermarket ground effects on the 78 and 79 Vettes to mimic the early 80 model C3’s.
“In 2010 we were offered a 1982 Collectors edition with 38000 miles for $8500.” Rick Duncan said. “This was a very nice car. Now you can’t touch these for less than 15k and if they’re nice, they’re upward of 20k”
If you are looking for a sports car and more specifically a C3 Vette, MyclassicNEWS feels that the C3 is a sound investment at this time. Like anything, they may vary from year to year in value and they may decrease to a degree at times, but if you do your research, it is apparent that the C3 has started to come into form in the classic car world and over the long term they have definitely risen on the sales graphs.
Rick Duncan said; “If someone is looking for a C3, I would recommend they do their homework. Check prices on ebay and online, but don’t be sold on online prices as being the last word. And never buy a car online unseen. I’m not saying that everyone is dishonest, but it really gives you a sinking feeling when the car arrives and it’s not what it was represented to be. Look locally, because you can inspect what you’re buying, but another great buying method is a classic car auction. You can fully inspect the car at an auction and sometimes you get motivated sellers that end up taking less than market value in the heat of the moment or they just need the money. But, at other times, classic cars bring market value and even considerably more than market value at auctions. That’s all part of the atmosphere. Given the variety at a larger classic car auction like a Leake, Mecum, Dan Kruse, Auctions America and many others, it is a great venue to start looking for your C3.”
There are many auctions nationwide and chances are one is scheduled in your area. CLICK HERE to check out all the classic car auctions nationwide or to check out the Official Classic Car Dealer of MyclassicNEWs CLICK HERE.
Once you find the Corvette of your choice, load it up and take it home…
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