C3 Big Block or just a croc....

C3 Big Block or just a croc....

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Discussion

SFTWend

Original Poster:

848 posts

76 months

Friday 28th February 2020
quotequote all
I've seen a C3 Vette coming up at auction that appeals. It's a big block manual and I love the colour.

Always fancied something like this but know very little about American cars in terms of what to look for and originality. The auction description is brief so I suspect there is little paperwork with the car.

As the car was only imported in 2018 my start point was to do a Carfax check but it doesn't recognise the Chassis No quoted by the auction house (which the auction house have confirmed matches the VS5). So I have no idea whether it's a genuine matching numbers big block or a previous total loss claim etc. etc. There is also an anomaly in that the car was first registered in 1972 but it's on a G plate (1968/9). The MOT when imported is fairly clean but the owner didn't get it MOT'd last year.

Have I already learn't enough to keep clear or am I being too cautious? If it was a dry state car can I assume it has a sound chassis and thus limiting potential big bill repairs? The engines last forever right? I'll be able to start the car but obviously can't test drive it.

What would be a reasonable punt figure for a sound but non original big block manual that needs some mechanical refurbishment?

Here's the link;

https://www.historics.co.uk/buying/auctions/2020-0...

All guidance gratefully received, thank you.

SFTWend

Original Poster:

848 posts

76 months

Saturday 29th February 2020
quotequote all
Great pointers, many thanks gents.
I'll follow up with the classic Vette forum. I guess someone may well know the car.

SFTWend

Original Poster:

848 posts

76 months

Sunday 1st March 2020
quotequote all
It was MOT'd when first imported in 2018, which I believe is a legal requirement, but not in 2019 when it became exempt.

SFTWend

Original Poster:

848 posts

76 months

Thursday 9th April 2020
quotequote all
No. There was zero paperwork with the car so too much of a gamble for me. Probably a good buy for someone who knew what to look for.