1969 Chevrolet Corvette

Description

The story on this 1969 Corvette Stingray convertible is one of those clean, honest cars that doesn't require cubic dollars to purchase yet delivers a high-quality pedigree that certainly adds to the ownership experience. It offers a matching numbers 427, a great color combination, and nice perks like a modern overdrive transmission and a removable hardtop.

Daytona Yellow makes this sleek 'Vette look period perfect, and given that it's had a recent repaint, it should be no surprise that it remains in great condition. It was completed about three years ago and the finish keeps that original single-stage look that works so well, and even after 45 years, this shape remains one of the most attractive in the entire automotive kingdom. There are no gaudy stripes or styling add-ons, which speaks volumes about the integrity of the design, and for many the earliest C3s are the best of the bunch with their chrome bumpers and hidden windshield wipers. It does wear a correct vented big block hood with '427' callouts, and it comes by those honestly, so the car will get a lot of respect on the street. It's not perfect and probably wasn't intended to be, but for a car that's ready to drive anywhere, anytime, it looks like a million bucks. Those aforementioned chrome bumpers look great and you'll note that the Stingray badges above the side vents are now one word, not two as with the earlier C2 cars.

The black interior contrasts perfectly with the bright Daytona Yellow paint and with a few well-chosen options, this Corvette becomes a great grand-touring machine rather than a hardcore sports car. The interior is completely restored including the seat covers and carpets, which gives it a polished, high-quality look. The most notable upgrade is the fact that there are now four forward gears in the automatic transmission, thanks to a 700R4 4-speed automatic overdrive upgrade, and it's an invisible change that makes this car a joy to drive. The original gauges are remarkably clear and bright and you can't argue with how well the interior works from a driver's standpoint, with everything within easy reach. A factory AM radio still delivers decent sound and the cool fiber-optic lamp monitors are always fascinating for first-time Corvette owners. The black vinyl folding convertible top stows under the rear deck and a removable hardtop that's been color-matched to the bodywork seals it up as tightly as a coupe and gives it a unique look.

The 427 cubic inch L36 V8 is this car's original, matching-numbers engine and makes a substantial 390 horsepower. With endless reserves of torque and an attitude that practically invites you to plant your foot on the floor, it's a blast to drive. It looks great with a few added chrome pieces, including the alternator, which works well with the open-element air cleaner and shiny chrome valve covers. The block has been recently painted to brighten the engine compartment, but there's also a lot of original componentry that still works and looks great. Long-tube headers are ceramic-coated and feed a throaty exhaust system that tucks up tight under the floor, so there are no ground clearance issues. The aforementioned 700R4 transmission totally transforms this big block 'Vette, turning it into a superb high-speed cruiser thanks to the towering overdrive gear. Shiny Rally wheels with relatively recent 255/60/15 radials mean the car rides and handles well with a traditional Corvette look.

Any Corvette with a 427 in it is special, and this brilliant ragtop with its matching-numbers engine and upgraded transmission, is a fun, flashy Corvette with a great pedigree. Call today!