Highlights
- Extensively restored and improved early C3
- Sought-after manual gearbox 5.7L small block L46 350hp car
- Red car with options including L88 RPO ‘high rise hood’
- Also features optional wing vents, side exit exhausts and white script tyres
- Specialist overhaul of suspension, brake, steering and cooling systems
- Very well presented car in red with black interior
The Appeal
It seems wholly appropriate that this magnificent ‘69 Vette arrives on the market just after America circumnavigates the moon, because in 1969, each NASA astronaut was gifted a new one that was similar to this example, to celebrate the original moon landings.
The 1969 cars benefit from improved fit and finish, plus the option of the 350hp ‘Turbofire’ L46 small-block V8 engine, which this standout car has, along with a desirable manual box. The eagle-eyed will also spot the L88 RPO option pack ‘high-rise hood’, optional wing vents, side-exit exhausts, and white-lettered Cooper Cobra tyres, which were all ‘69 options. The tyres are fitted to gold American Racing Vector alloys. This is clearly a highly detailed car - inside, there is a correct Corvette radio.
The car arrived in the UK in 2014. The extensive history file indicates that this marked the start of a three-year renovation process undertaken by well-regarded American car specialists, including the steering, brakes, suspension, and cooling systems. Invoices on file show costs exceeding £10,000 for this work. Along the way, the car was fitted with power steering, Sharkbite semi-coilover rear suspension, and a new Holley 650 carburettor. The clutch system was also replaced. The car appears to have covered very few miles since completion, although this is not verified.
The C3 is a true sports car icon. Any C3 is therefore very tempting, but for enthusiasts it is a case of the earlier the better, with the ‘69 year cars being most appealing. Here is one of the best we’ve seen in a long while.
History and Paperwork
- First registered 1969
- VIN number 194379S728514
- VIN confirms car as 1969MY coupe built at Bowling Green factory
- UK registered from February 2014
- Three UK keepers
- Current keeper since June 2020
- Large history file as shown
- Some USA documents including Connecticut registration documents
- Extensive records of 2014 to 2019 restoration work as shown
- Various high-value invoices from USA car specialists and parts supplier Eckers
- 1 set of keys plus spare keys as shown
- Factory handbook
- V5C
- Registered as a Historic Vehicle
- Tracker appears to be fitted as shown in photos (not verified)
- Last voluntary MOT ran to March 2024 with no advisories
The Condition
- Very well kept red paintwork with few indications of use as shown
- Bodywork is well kept with straight and flush panel fit
- Car features optional L88 ‘high rise’ bonnet and wing vents
- Twin removable ‘targa’ roof panels in good working order
- Side exit exhausts with bright chrome finish
- Gold finish American Racing Vector alloys in very good condition
- Wheels refurbished in 2019 according to invoices
- Quality Cooper Cobra tyres with white lettering, an option on 69 cars
- Black interior in very good order with neat original features such as Corvette radio
- Trim repairs in 2017 according to invoices
- Speedometer repairs in 2019 but current operational status unconfirmed
- Underside as shown with evidence of undersealing in photos
- Rev-counter and mileage counter currently not working
The Mechanics
- 350hp L46 ‘Turbofire’ 5.7:L 350CI small block V8 fitted
- 4spd manual gearbox
- Electronic ignition fitted in 2019
- Power steering conversion fitted in same year
- Clutch replaced in 2019
- Sharkbite semi-coilover rear suspension conversion in 2017
- Suspension overhaul in 2019 using quality USA-sourced parts
- Steering system overhaul in 2017
- Overhaul of cooling system in 2017
- Carburettor overhauled with new 650 Holley unit fitted in 2017
- Brake system overhaul in 2019
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