Vette Questions.....?
Discussion
I found this...
What do people think...?
What are these like?
Do they share any of the later Vette's bombproofability..?
Or are they another oniion entirely...?
What do people think...?
What are these like?
Do they share any of the later Vette's bombproofability..?
Or are they another oniion entirely...?
I had a 1981 a few years back. Great shape, great sound, great looker but really slow (smog stuff) and bits kept falling off. The 1982 is potentially more troublesome as it has the crossfire injection (GMs early fuel injection system). They do take quite a lot of looking after but the engines are just as reliable. All the Corvette generations are unique in their own way including this one
The C4 is a vast improvemant on the C3 and the C5 is an outstanding improvemnt on the C4.
You get what you pay for. If you budget is £8,500 then try for a C4 - you may be lucky and get a good one. If you can double your budget then you can get a C5.
No offence to the owner of the C3 - it looks a very nice car.
The C4 is a vast improvemant on the C3 and the C5 is an outstanding improvemnt on the C4.
You get what you pay for. If you budget is £8,500 then try for a C4 - you may be lucky and get a good one. If you can double your budget then you can get a C5.
No offence to the owner of the C3 - it looks a very nice car.
Edited by c5ragtop on Friday 4th August 09:56
gorvid said:
Not as useable and hassle free as a C4 then....?
No, not close really - we are talking early 60's chassis design here. Great car to own as a weekend toy though. IMO downsides include: Complex steering/suspension that drives awful if not in perfect condition, tight inside, brake calipers leak (if not replaced with stainless) and the late cars like this are not very fast (final drive gear is way too high). Very thirsty compared with the C4/5 (though the crossfire inj isn't bad at all on fuel).
Upsides are that they look fantastic and parts are reasonably priced. The early cars are fast (pre 73'??) as standard. C3 is a proper classic, but useable and hassle free? a late 80's-> C4 is closer to the mark.
I have used C3's and C4's as daily drivers in the past, not just for the odd week but years in all weathers. Great fun.
I have now owned my 1980 C3 for 2 years and not regretted a minute of ownership. I owned a 260Z for 18 years before this and I now I wish I had swapped it much earlier. The vette has the same challenges as a lot of other cars such as frame rust, GRP electrics and of course major fuel costs, but the rest is a huge buzz.
Personally I would stay away from the crossfire engine, when its working its as good as any 350, when its giving problems its a lot more difficult to fix.I spent 6 months looking for my 80 as its the bast shape ( a point of debate !! ) and the last year of the low tech engines before the " computers " appeared. I have restored almost everything on this car except the engine and gearbox as parts for a C3 are plentiful and relitively cheap. With use of the internet you can order parts from the USA to arrive in days, and when the exhange rate is a good as it is at the monent it's a bonaza !. The later C3's are under powered compared to earlier version's, but for a modest outlay( tuning wise ) of £3K - £4K you can boost the standard 200bhp to nearer 350-400hp. However, even in standard form the vette produces loads of torque and still gives you the kick in the back when requested. There is loads of online support and UK based vendors to give help, but even if you are only an occasional hands on mechanic you can cope with most jobs on these cars. Insurance for me at 52 is £220 + national beakdown for 3000 miles.
Like most people on this site I have been into cars since birth and have owned some "classic cars", but never have I owned a car that attract's so much attention and give you such a buzz for such a relitively low cost.
Bob
Personally I would stay away from the crossfire engine, when its working its as good as any 350, when its giving problems its a lot more difficult to fix.I spent 6 months looking for my 80 as its the bast shape ( a point of debate !! ) and the last year of the low tech engines before the " computers " appeared. I have restored almost everything on this car except the engine and gearbox as parts for a C3 are plentiful and relitively cheap. With use of the internet you can order parts from the USA to arrive in days, and when the exhange rate is a good as it is at the monent it's a bonaza !. The later C3's are under powered compared to earlier version's, but for a modest outlay( tuning wise ) of £3K - £4K you can boost the standard 200bhp to nearer 350-400hp. However, even in standard form the vette produces loads of torque and still gives you the kick in the back when requested. There is loads of online support and UK based vendors to give help, but even if you are only an occasional hands on mechanic you can cope with most jobs on these cars. Insurance for me at 52 is £220 + national beakdown for 3000 miles.
Like most people on this site I have been into cars since birth and have owned some "classic cars", but never have I owned a car that attract's so much attention and give you such a buzz for such a relitively low cost.
Bob
gorvid said:
Not as useable and hassle free as a C4 then....?
Ive never driven a C3,all i know is as i was growing up they were the ultimate looking car of its time to me,and i once heard it described as a penis on wheels which was understandable when you think of the comparison of cars on the road.
Compared to this in styling,i loved the old cortinas,moggies etc and that was what was mainly about when i was growing up but the difference in styling was outlandish and a pretty similar style to the E-type ,all wings and bonnet,i think ime right in saying in those days if you saw a vette or E-type it was in comparison with seeing a film star
Ime in danger of going off track here but what ime trying to put across is the aura that once surrounded these cars.
For all the 'C5 loads better than the C4' consider this carefully:
C3 better looking than either C4 or C5 (arguable, but I think the majority would be with this)
C5 looks like a bigger late model RX7
C5's seem to take less abuse in the gearbox department that the C4, and the C3 will probably handle even more abuse (TH350 a significantly stronger box than the 700-R4 fitted to the C4)
C4 and C3 owners never get in their cars to find the steering lock has failed/ done something random.
C4 and C3 owners enjoy no real problems with batteries going flat.
A well set up C3 handles just as well on the road as a C4, and a C5 is not (as far as I can tell) streets ahead in this department either.
C5 is a bigger car than the C4, which in turn is a bigger car than the C3, this does have a significant effect on how nimble these cars are.
I'm not going out and out to say that the C whatever is better than the C other whatever, but sometimes I think we need to bring a bit of balance in here. Each year has its pros and cons, let the buyer decide which aspects are most important to them.
C3 better looking than either C4 or C5 (arguable, but I think the majority would be with this)
C5 looks like a bigger late model RX7
C5's seem to take less abuse in the gearbox department that the C4, and the C3 will probably handle even more abuse (TH350 a significantly stronger box than the 700-R4 fitted to the C4)
C4 and C3 owners never get in their cars to find the steering lock has failed/ done something random.
C4 and C3 owners enjoy no real problems with batteries going flat.
A well set up C3 handles just as well on the road as a C4, and a C5 is not (as far as I can tell) streets ahead in this department either.
C5 is a bigger car than the C4, which in turn is a bigger car than the C3, this does have a significant effect on how nimble these cars are.
I'm not going out and out to say that the C whatever is better than the C other whatever, but sometimes I think we need to bring a bit of balance in here. Each year has its pros and cons, let the buyer decide which aspects are most important to them.
Preferred looks is a very personal thing which only you can decide. I love the C3 and the C5 is my 2nd favourite, but I'm not a fan of the C4 myself. As for ease of maintenance, the C3 has them all beat. My '72 is so easy to fault find and fix it's almost laughable. My '95 Z28 on the other hand, which runs the same LT1 as the post '92 C4 is all electronics and sensors. The Z28 is particularly awkward as '95 was a changeover from OBDI to OBDII and the F-bodies are a mix of the two. That doesn't affect the C4 though, Chevrolet did that changeover properly I believe. I've never driven a C4 but as my Camaro is a nicer and easier drive than my Vette I'd say they are a better car to drive, and the C5 definately is. Depending on your budget, I'd say seriously consider a nice C3 as they are a fabulous looking car and the feel-good factor you'll get from one is immense. I suspect it would hold it's value better as well. If you want a daily, all weather car then a C4 or C5 would be better.
The C3 Shape has been voted several times as the coolest looking car in the world. I've parked mine next to everything from Astons to Ferraris and the crowds end up round my C3. If it's pose value you are looking for with the ultimate value for money it's gotta be a C3. If you are shy and don't like strangers talking to you all the time don't buy a C3. The 1969 is the one to have but the 1970's C3 are such great value. You can get everything for them from a little sticker on the air filter cover to the whole underneath.
If you want a bit of poke and blow away some modern stuff away from the lights drop a ZZ4 engine in (350hp)like I did. However ... I have to agree it is a 'toy' and I wouldn't use one as my everyday car, you need C4 onwards for that IMHO.
As for reliability, I've never had such a reliable car. When I was out of the country a lot my 1977 C3 was not started for a year. I got back, one turn of the key and it roared like a lion ... well cool!!
I'm taking delivery of my C6 Z06 in about 10 days so that should be a blast. But I have to say, I still don't think it will turn as many heads as my 1974 C3. I guess I'm a C3 'lifer'... the later models will come and go but my C3 super poser is here to stay
Eric
If you want a bit of poke and blow away some modern stuff away from the lights drop a ZZ4 engine in (350hp)like I did. However ... I have to agree it is a 'toy' and I wouldn't use one as my everyday car, you need C4 onwards for that IMHO.
As for reliability, I've never had such a reliable car. When I was out of the country a lot my 1977 C3 was not started for a year. I got back, one turn of the key and it roared like a lion ... well cool!!
I'm taking delivery of my C6 Z06 in about 10 days so that should be a blast. But I have to say, I still don't think it will turn as many heads as my 1974 C3. I guess I'm a C3 'lifer'... the later models will come and go but my C3 super poser is here to stay
Eric
gorvid said:
Buckman....
Thats not yours in the ad then????
Thats not yours in the ad then????
Ah ! the red beauty in the yellow pages ad. No, that's a bit earlier model than mine, but nevertheless a nice car. I like the phrase " Automotive Art ". I prefer the fast back of mine, gives me somewhere to put the luggage.
Bob
www.pistonheads.com/pics//members/63632-car.jpg?nocache=391
My Car
I think the C4 is painfully under-rated in the looks department and you have to see (a good) one on the road to appreciate it's proportions and stance, especially in black or bright red. I suppose I am a C4 fan as it was my first Yank and really shook me when I first saw and heard it, in a way the C5 never did. It is also a true "big willy" car with a long, long bonnet with great access to everything under a clamshell bonnet and relatively simple mechanics compared to a C5 which looks far more mid-engined supercar especially in Z06 form.
The C5 is leagues ahead in the handling department than a C4 which can be a challenge to drive fast without a bit of sphincter fluctuation. The C5 has far more electronic assistance. However, I still don't think you can beat it. I was recently in Spain and saw one there rumbling round and it still looks supercar cool. It may be less capable than a C4 but it is far superior to a C3 and the deficit in certain of it's abilities actually makes it far more fun than a C5 to hoon about in. The C5 is far too sensible in many ways. The only thing that spoilt the C4 was the silly electronic instruments in the earlier versions, a loose build quality especially in the interior and the fact that the wipers often lifted from the screen at speed and the side windows also suck out at high speed creating wind roar. But I'd have another in a heartbeat.
The C5 is leagues ahead in the handling department than a C4 which can be a challenge to drive fast without a bit of sphincter fluctuation. The C5 has far more electronic assistance. However, I still don't think you can beat it. I was recently in Spain and saw one there rumbling round and it still looks supercar cool. It may be less capable than a C4 but it is far superior to a C3 and the deficit in certain of it's abilities actually makes it far more fun than a C5 to hoon about in. The C5 is far too sensible in many ways. The only thing that spoilt the C4 was the silly electronic instruments in the earlier versions, a loose build quality especially in the interior and the fact that the wipers often lifted from the screen at speed and the side windows also suck out at high speed creating wind roar. But I'd have another in a heartbeat.
LuS1fer said:
I think the C4 is painfully under-rated in the looks department and you have to see (a good) one on the road to appreciate it's proportions and stance, especially in black or bright red. I suppose I am a C4 fan as it was my first Yank and really shook me when I first saw and heard it, in a way the C5 never did. It is also a true "big willy" car with a long, long bonnet with great access to everything under a clamshell bonnet and relatively simple mechanics compared to a C5 which looks far more mid-engined supercar especially in Z06 form.
The C5 is leagues ahead in the handling department than a C4 which can be a challenge to drive fast without a bit of sphincter fluctuation. The C5 has far more electronic assistance. However, I still don't think you can beat it. I was recently in Spain and saw one there rumbling round and it still looks supercar cool. It may be less capable than a C4 but it is far superior to a C3 and the deficit in certain of it's abilities actually makes it far more fun than a C5 to hoon about in. The C5 is far too sensible in many ways. The only thing that spoilt the C4 was the silly electronic instruments in the earlier versions, a loose build quality especially in the interior and the fact that the wipers often lifted from the screen at speed and the side windows also suck out at high speed creating wind roar. But I'd have another in a heartbeat.
The C5 is leagues ahead in the handling department than a C4 which can be a challenge to drive fast without a bit of sphincter fluctuation. The C5 has far more electronic assistance. However, I still don't think you can beat it. I was recently in Spain and saw one there rumbling round and it still looks supercar cool. It may be less capable than a C4 but it is far superior to a C3 and the deficit in certain of it's abilities actually makes it far more fun than a C5 to hoon about in. The C5 is far too sensible in many ways. The only thing that spoilt the C4 was the silly electronic instruments in the earlier versions, a loose build quality especially in the interior and the fact that the wipers often lifted from the screen at speed and the side windows also suck out at high speed creating wind roar. But I'd have another in a heartbeat.
My windows didn't suck out when I was driving 180 in my C4 (indicated 177-speedo under reads at speed) and if you're driving 'at speed' with you wipers on then that would indicate its raining and so you shouldnt be at speed anyway.
As for looks, nothing beats the fat arse of a ZR1, the fact that I have an engine to look at under the 'hood' (as do you C3 guys) and not a plastic tuperware(s?) party), no electric gizzmos to help traction and a feel of a raw sports car. Its all down to taste but to me driving the C6 was a much too refined experience. The Corvette WAS a sports car but as each model comes out they refine it that bit more almost to the point that it feels like you're in a quite family saloon. I've not driven a C5 but guess they are somewhere in between. It all come down to taste, if we all liked the same thing the world would be a sad place.
C3 was the first car I ever lusted after as a child, sadly waited til I was 40 to buy one! Daft. I think I can honestly say, it is the most striking, radical (in its day) car ever. Absolutely love my 78 pace car (Black/Silver one) and have done enormous amounts of work to make it nice, and have the zz4 HO motor in it as the original L-82 is rather feeble for its size. It is totally reliable, and as easy to work on as an MGB V8. Parts, massive choice, and quite cheap if you shop around. I have a TH350 auto and a 3.55 rear end which give rather poor economy, top speed around 125, but massive accelleration. I bought a nice C5 this year, and couldnt bear to sell the C3, so I have 2 ! C5 is better in just about every way, the electronics are nothing to fear, its easy and fun to work on.
I love the C5 to bits, its fantastic, but I still grin wider when I take the pacey out!
I have never owned a C4 and probably never will. (ZR-1 is a poss!) No offence to any C4 lovers, its just I have never quite bonded with the looks, and acres of creaking plastic. For my 3 ha'peth, the C3 is the best looker - by miles. Just get one, and enjoy it, all the guys here will help you with any probs. You WILL NOT regret it !! Trust me....
I love the C5 to bits, its fantastic, but I still grin wider when I take the pacey out!
I have never owned a C4 and probably never will. (ZR-1 is a poss!) No offence to any C4 lovers, its just I have never quite bonded with the looks, and acres of creaking plastic. For my 3 ha'peth, the C3 is the best looker - by miles. Just get one, and enjoy it, all the guys here will help you with any probs. You WILL NOT regret it !! Trust me....
Recipe for one really large gonad vehicle;
1 no. early C3 coupe,
1 no. ZZ572 crate engine,
as required,
biggest and best aftermarket braking system,
multiple quantities(as and when required) of following,
M21/M22 gearbox,
clutch assemblys,
rear axle/differential assys.
Liberal helpings of bottle/nerves/valium/alcohol/life insurance
1 no. early C3 coupe,
1 no. ZZ572 crate engine,
as required,
biggest and best aftermarket braking system,
multiple quantities(as and when required) of following,
M21/M22 gearbox,
clutch assemblys,
rear axle/differential assys.
Liberal helpings of bottle/nerves/valium/alcohol/life insurance
roscobbc said:
Recipe for one really large gonad vehicle;
1 no. early C3 coupe,
1 no. ZZ572 crate engine,
as required,
biggest and best aftermarket braking system,
multiple quantities(as and when required) of following,
M21/M22 gearbox,
clutch assemblys,
rear axle/differential assys.
Liberal helpings of bottle/nerves/valium/alcohol/life insurance
1 no. early C3 coupe,
1 no. ZZ572 crate engine,
as required,
biggest and best aftermarket braking system,
multiple quantities(as and when required) of following,
M21/M22 gearbox,
clutch assemblys,
rear axle/differential assys.
Liberal helpings of bottle/nerves/valium/alcohol/life insurance
And lots of these: £££££££££££££££££££
???
gorvid said:
roscobbc said:
Recipe for one really large gonad vehicle;
1 no. early C3 coupe,
1 no. ZZ572 crate engine,
as required,
biggest and best aftermarket braking system,
multiple quantities(as and when required) of following,
M21/M22 gearbox,
clutch assemblys,
rear axle/differential assys.
Liberal helpings of bottle/nerves/valium/alcohol/life insurance
1 no. early C3 coupe,
1 no. ZZ572 crate engine,
as required,
biggest and best aftermarket braking system,
multiple quantities(as and when required) of following,
M21/M22 gearbox,
clutch assemblys,
rear axle/differential assys.
Liberal helpings of bottle/nerves/valium/alcohol/life insurance
And lots of these: £££££££££££££££££££
???
a good friend of mine bought a manual 74' C3 few years back, bought cheap for £5k and little rough here and there, engine always bit underpowered and gearbox fried itself last year so he spends his £8k redunndancy on a crate 400hp engine and new muncie 4 speed. Car now owes him £13k and hasn't even touched the body, brakes or suspension yet. not cheap to make right..
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