1969 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible
1969 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible
Car Specifications
Key Enhancements
As an original, numbers-matching car (original engine, transmission and drive train from the factory) my goal was to keep the car true to 1969 as possible. The only “upgrades” I splurged on were leather seats (still have the original mesh vinyl covers) and Custom Audio sound system with removable rear 6×9 speaker enclosures.
Engine Specifications
Drivetrain
Acquiring the Car – The Backstory
As the second car in the collection, I determined that finding a decent priced, all original Corvette convertible in Le Mans Blue would be a tall order, so I focused on that model. Found the car listed on HaggleMe.com for sale via a broker who was representing the buyer. It was located in of all places… Cadillac, Michigan.
Car spent a good amount of time with the second owner in Arizona. He treated this car like it was a baby. The undercarriage is immaculate and looks like it came off the factory floor. He kept detailed records and provided a “care and feeding” guide detailing the recommended engine care, fuel type and full specs for all drivetrain stamping.
I flew and drove to the car location and in December, you can guess there was a ton of snow on the ground. Like I could not see the sides of the road in my rental car. That meant no test drive. Just a start up and forward/backward 10 feet in the garage location. After a bit of discussion and “haggling”, we agreed on a price, and I had the car shipped back to Texas.
The Restoration Process
Completely gutted the worn and tired interior. Stripped it down to bare metal then installed Dynamat, sound deadening, new leather seat covers/foam, new carpet and audio. Took about nine months to complete the project. Had the carb overhauled, radiator replaced (still have the original) and replaced the brake booster. Also troubleshooted the numerous vacuum hoses to get the wiper door to function properly. The paint was in solid condition and just needed a good clay bar, compound, polish, and wax.
Have the original tank sticker and owner’s manual. And I plan to take it to a future Bloomington Gold event to get it certified. Given all the detailed info on parts stamping and numbers, she should show quite well. For now, I take the car to area shows and just enjoy the rush of top-down cruising.
Beauty Shots
