My interest in corvettes began around 20 years ago. I didn't know too much about them, but I loved the name Stingray and the shape. I always had company vehicles and family cars so hadn't had a "me car" for many years.
Over the last dozen years, I had a couple of opportunities where funds were available so hunted and chased and learned much about C3's. Quietly for the most part. But on these occasions, there was always a better option or investment for the family to utilise funds.
In 2021 about 6 months out from my 50th Birthday my lovely wife came to me and said it is time. A Corvette for my 50th Birthday seemed fitting, and we should get it underway. The debating over budget stretched for many days with some great arguments and counters. As all newbie Corvette owners ideally, I wanted a 69 - 72 chrome bumper machine. I wanted a convertible, and 454 manual would've been ideal. I soon learned my dream and budget did not align. I reset my thinking and knew that the wife would never drive it if it was manual so an auto would be fine. Now, she may never drive it anyway, buy at least the option is there. I also wanted something I could drive straight away and work to improve over time.
No long-winded projects here, just get done what needs to be done and get driving.
While there were several cars I liked, there were few that matched my wants. I looked at importing, but Covid was settling in, and freight costs were skyrocketing. I eventually found my car in Melbourne. A young guy owned it but was looking to shift it on, he needed the money for other projects. As the hard lock downs in Melbourne were in place, he was struggling to get people to come and see it. I did a few facetime calls, and fortunately I know a few mechanics in Melbourne who are car nuts, so I sent one around to check it out. He loved it, said I should buy it, but gave me plenty of points to haggle the numbers down. We cut a good deal and in August 2021 she came across.
I had it sent straight to David and Ian at Firebird Trading and collectables. I had contacted the Corvette club to get some info on where the car could be worked on and had spoken with Dave Sargent a few times. He was immensely helpful.
It took two trips to Regency and about three months in the workshop before I was satisfied, and she could hit the road. The previous owner had re sprayed the paint but had not done much mechanically.
So, we began. The steering had a lot of work done, brakes, the seatbelts had to be replaced and have an engineer's report, the indicators needed replacing and many many other little jobs. My brief was if it needed doing, do it. I wanted the car to be reliable and enjoyable.
I drove home on a sunny Saturday with the top down and felt like a kid. It was amazing. I am not sure why I wanted a convertible; I have never owned one before. But I am so glad I did. There is nothing like cruising around with the top down when the weather is right.
The car was imported into Victoria from America in 2007. I found a metal registration plate under the rear bumper from 2003 in Hawaii. That's a good start. The engine is a non original 350 chev. The engine number had been ground off, so it has a Vic Roads number which makes chasing history a little difficult. The previous owner purchased it in 2015 and drove it when he could but didn't add too many miles.
Since I've had it home, I've had the front end lowered, had to do some fibreglass work and paint on the soft top lid, replaced all the badges and grilles, new master cylinder. I've recently replaced the handbrake; it flew apart while I was driving one day. The most recent job was a new centre console & aircon / heater control, a new retro look Bluetooth stereo with rear speakers, we also replaced the gauge bezel and air vents while we were there and fitted an new electric aerial.
Next are the seats, then the interior is virtually fresh & new. I hope. Until I notice something else.
Side pipes are my next project, just love the look of them and want to add some chrome. And I want her louder.
My Vett is definitely driven not hidden. Any weekend with no rain she is on the road. The Zippel cruises are great events and I attend the Coffee and Chrome days as well as some smaller local shopping centre meets.
The wife and I cruise through the hills for coffee and winery stops when we can. I drive, she is in charge of the waving. A shiny red convertible Corvette gets plenty of honks, waves & attention.
I am enjoying being a part of the Club and hope to join in some cruises soon.
Kind Regards, Aaron Skinner