Garage Find – One owner, Big Block Tri-Power, 1969 Corvette Coupe

00d0d_67iMLrFk6zl_1200x900“Patina” is a term thrown around a lot on the inter webs these days. It can be used as “balm” to smooth over and dismiss rust, body damage or an outright junkyard dog.

In the case of this one owner, 1969 L71 427 Corvette, it looks like the real deal. From the almost bald tires bias-ply tires, to the trailer hitch and fiberglass battle scars this thing is resplendent in it’s road weary, bug splattered beauty.

The story come to us via BarnFinds and Craigslist.

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Recently out of long term storage, it was sold new in Troy, Michigan and is currently in Janesville, Wisconsin. The car appears to be the real deal and seller says full documentation is available. It was optioned with the 427/435hp motor, M21 4-speed transmission, 4.11 rear axle ratio, power steering, shoulder belts, and factory side exhaust (but now equipped with non-oem units.)

In regards to the motor, some question marks pop up when it comes to its history. Seller says, “The engine block was replaced under warranty with a CE block which is a 512 casting with 4 bolt mains. Cylinder heads are not original to the car and are suspected to have been dealer swapped prior to delivery with 842 GM aluminum heads dated 1968 (these heads were used on L88 and L89 cars only).”

The good news is the  tri-power setup is complete with correct air cleaner and carburetors.

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After years in storage, the engine will turn by hand but currently, this is a non-running car. The transmission and rear end both match the Protect-O-Plate and are original to the car.

The car comes with extra parts as well. Original exhaust manifolds, smog pump, diverter valve with hoses, chrome distributor shielding, and spare tire and tub. Indicated mileage is 47K which appears to be original.

Seller says interior is “dusty” and will clean up easily. Maybe, but it seems that’s a bit of blue sky. The standard, “ComfortWeave” interior looks complete with all components present and accounted for.

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Three things struck us about this old ‘Vette.

From the stuffed map pockets, to the JC Whitney compass on the dash to the trailer hitch, this car was used and enjoyed. We find it fascinating to see what is essentially a GM show car (Mako Shark II) used as a everyday workhorse vehicle.

Secondly, what do you do with it?  We’d leave it exactly as it is–gum wrappers, spare belts, and trailer brake light cable dangling from the rear bumper–and put a rope and stantions around  it and show the car, “as found.”

On the other hand, a loving restoration by the right shop would be a treat indeed. Think of this car shiny and brand new again. Lordy bagordy.

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The seller is asking $23,900. We don’t care it’s not running as we view this car as a stepping off point for the two aforementioned strategies.

To hardcore Corvette historians and aficionados, restoration is considered destruction. Breaking this car apart will destroy many clues to how these cars were assembled as well as the the workmanship of long dead factory workers.

Lastly, how many unrestored 1969 can there be left in the wild?

Whatever the tack is with this car, we hope it finds a kind, sympathetic shepherd to bring it back into the sunlight for all to enjoy.

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About the author

Dave Cruikshank

Dave Cruikshank is a lifelong car enthusiast and an editor at Power Automedia. He digs all flavors of automobiles, from classic cars to modern EVs. Dave loves music, design, tech, current events, and fitness.
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