Restored Numbers Matching Corvette Stingray Roadster LS5 454 V8 4 Speed

By now, you've probably memorized most of the Corvette story. From Zora Arkus-Duntov to the Mako Shark to the bankruptcy years, each of the car's seven generations has its own key moments and cast of colorful characters. At this point, the third generation Corvette accounts for the middle section of the brand's lineage and, looking back, it's a remarkably appropriate car to hold that place. With visible nods to both Chevrolet's heritage and future, examples like this sweet Mulsanne Blue roadster are finding firm footing in a collector market that will inevitably grow stronger. The subject of a thorough, frame-up restoration, this numbers-matching Stingray features options like a storied LS5, a tough Muncie 4-speed and 4-wheel disc brakes that make it both fun and surprisingly capable. There's never a bad time to buy a good Corvette, so if you're looking to add an impressive C3 to your collection, you've come to the right place!

Assembled in St. Louis on February 17th, 1970, this awesome drop-top is bathed in a vivid coat of correct Mulsanne Blue two-stage. Under that striking paint, the car's lightweight fiberglass body flows well, presenting a solid feel that conveys a mostly rust and drama-free existence. That body's panel gaps have been narrowed to better-than-factory standards, creating a smooth finish that, devoid of noteworthy issues, testifies to a high quality, frame-up restoration. And overall, this vintage cruiser is a clean, well-maintained classic that provides the kind of style and reliability not normally found in moody trailer queens or butch barn builds.

With such a svelte body, ornamentation could have easily ruined the C3's presence. Thankfully, Chevrolet did a great job of placing form over function and keeping brightwork to a minimum. At the front of this Vette, chrome-trimmed 'eggcrate' grilles center small parking lamps between a thin bumper and subtle chin spoiler. Above that bumper, a cross-flag-branded header draws the eye to a chrome-trimmed hood that's detailed with bold “454” emblems. That hood reflects raked glass that's framed in mirrored stainless and capped by a bright white top. At the sides of that stainless, cursive “Stingray” scripts perfectly complement slick rocker trim and correct chrome mirrors. And at the back of the car, a “CORVETTE” branded valence hangs signature tail lamps and two chrome bumpers between a luggage rack, a familiar cross-flag fuel filler and square stainless exhaust tips.

In 1970, if you wanted a top-of-the-line Corvette, you had two options. You could order an LT-1 car and put up with a moody, uncivilized small block that didn't like running accessories. Or you could order an LS5 car and have a nicely optioned, well-rounded big block that stomped pretty much anything on the street. Either way you'd have an awesome ride! Rolling out of the factory with 390 horsepower and a massive 500 lb./ft. of torque, this Stingray's original LS5 hangs a familiar 3963512 casting number behind a correct “CZU” assembly stamp and matching partial VIN, verifying its authenticity. At the top of the mill, a chrome, correctly decaled air cleaner forces wind in to a big Rochester 4-barrel that's cinched to fresh stainless fuel lines. At the sides of that carburetor, mirrored valve covers cap correct heads and fully restored exhaust manifolds. At the back of those manifolds, chrome-cased ignition sequences spark through silver-sleeved plug wires. And, opposite that ignition, a shrouded radiator circulates water through pliable GM hoses and reproduction tower clamps. Naturally, the car's Satin Black engine bay and Chevy Orange block are highlighted by a series of factory-accurate markings. And all of the engine's belts, hardware and ancillaries are in the kind of clean, road-ready condition that ensures great performance.

Peer under this low-slung roadster and you'll find a Satin Black chassis that's straight, solid and ready to pound the pavement. The LS5 sends power to an original Muncie 4-speed, which hangs a Muncie (P) assembled on February (B) 11th, (11) 1970 (0) build stamp between a correct 3925661 casting number and matching partial VIN. In front of that transmission, a double A-arm suspension is complete with factory power steering. Opposite that steering rack, a transverse leaf suspension does an excellent job of increasing grip. In the middle of the car, an aluminized, true-dual exhaust system pipes spent gases through fresh, rear-mounted mufflers. At the corners of the car, power-assisted discs mix rapid stops with great handling. And all that fully sorted hardware rolls on handsome Rally wheels, which spin fresh 245/60R15 BF Goodrich Radial T/As around stainless trim rings and turbine center caps.

Slip in to this Stingray's correct Black interior and settle on one of its comfortable vinyl buckets. Those seats are as original, with correct lap belts framing their bases. The carpet below them was replaced, even in the cargo area, where you'll find a small amount of storage space. The door panels at the edges of that carpet are, like the rest of the car's side panels, pliable and crack-free. There's a broad console that accommodates a small shifter, cool wheel-style heater controls and a “CORVETTE” branded tape deck. From the driver's seat, a satin-spoke steering wheel laps a set of factory gauges. And all that hardware unites to create a simple, comfortable cockpit that's befitting of a performance oriented brand like Corvette.

As the value of third generation Corvettes continues to grow, clean, numbers-matching cars like this Mulsanne Blue roadster will become serious investment pieces. With a strong color combination, an original drivetrain and a nice restoration, this C3 is not only a fun car to own, but also a great example of the brand's evolution. Whether you're a seasoned Chevy owner or a potential first-time buyer, don't miss your chance to park this sweet Stingray in your garage!