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

BEFORE YOU BUY

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