Hello all! I am thinking of purchasing my first corvette. It's a 73 L82 with the side pipes. I know my way around cars but I have to admit, I know nothing about corvette's.

If anyone can assist with some advice, it would be greatly appreciated. Is the 73 a good buy for $8500. It appears as though it has not been in an accident but it needs a paint job.

Thank you in advance!

 

Welcome to the forum.

Price sounds cheap. You'll have to post some pics and give more details. Like T-top or roadster, options, frame condition, does it run, etc? If you know someone who is very knowledgeable about Corvettes then have him look at it. If not, then strongly recommend that you become knowledgeable. While you can repair/replace everything on a Corvette, it can become very expensive even if you do your own work.

 

Your biggest area of concern should be the condition of the frame. Many Corvettes rot out at the rear frame kick ups (area behind the door that goes up over the rear suspension).

 

And also rust/rot sets in in the frame around the windshield.

 

I have 73 L82 automatic and I really love it looks . It is fun to ride it but as you are getting it in so cheap price, I think there might be some problem in it. If it is working all perfect then definitely it is worth to buy it.

 

Welcome,
If rust is not an issue, it sounds like it might be a deal. Try to post some pics for the experts to look at. Think about having some one who knows vettes look at it for you, there is no subsitute for experience.
Good luck.

 

Another area of major concern is the rear suspension.
Trailing arm bushings and the center differential mount are criticle areas that require inspection.