Author Topic: Matching Numbers...... Important or Not? (Read 6043 times)

Richo · « **on:** January 13, 2012, 12:08:03 PM »

Hi all,
Im a new member to this forum, and I am currently looking to purchase my first Vette.
Looking at purchasing a 69-72 model preferably in RHD.
Have been doing a lot of looking and reading etc. Have found some information but nothing to convince me one way or another.
Was after some advice from the experts.. on the importance of a 'matching numbers' vehicle. Does it 'add value' if they are matching, and likewise should i pay less for an equivalent car, if the numbers dont match. Any advice on this greatly appreciated, and any other things to look out for on inspection of a potential car to buy. Hoping to look at 2 next week.
Thanks in advance

StephenSLR · « **Reply #1 on:** January 13, 2012, 01:26:53 PM »

Matching numbers definitely adds value and matters to many people particularly restorers but does it matter to you?

If the car is non-matching you can always use this as a bargaining tool to lower the price but keep in mind what the car is, its condition and what similar cars fetch for.

Right now the US is a soft market for cars, are you looking here or abroad?

s

bfit · « **Reply #2 on:** January 13, 2012, 02:20:09 PM »

Matching number
Just what is it all about
If you are into the originality and investment being the reason to buy a particular car
Then yes it matters
If you are looking for something that suits you and you want to put your own influence in the car
does it matter.

You are looking for RHD

If number matching car is important the you would also have to GO LHD in my view

For me Number matching means American BS
having said that when looking for a car
one that is number matching may just turnout to be a good buy when it comes to condition.

AS above it is what suits you that is important

one thing that is important when it comes to Pre 72 cars
make sure the engine is correct for Pre 72

if the engine is a post 72 engine you can run in to ADR issues

beware the polished vehicle
know where the problem are
and have a real good look
Get professional help if you are not sure

some nice vehicle come up on this form from time to time, and there could be a few people who know the history, that you can talk to regarding those vehicle

There is company at Taren point that specialize in finding vehicles for prospective Buyers
Good luck
Bfit

Richo · « **Reply #3 on:** January 13, 2012, 02:27:25 PM »

Thanks guys for your responses. Some good points there.
Im not looking for the most pure example, just a good clean car.
The fact that im after a RHD (obviously not how they were originally built) is really for driveability on NSW roads. Have read all the other posts on LHD v RHD, but i personally prefer RHD. WHEN IN ROME...
Really just looking for available Vettes in Australia, not O.S, will travel interstate to view etc.
Just looking to find a good clean example.
Any tips on specifically what to look for in a Vette i.e typical rust spots, common faults, etc.
Thanks again

StephenSLR · « **Reply #4 on:** January 13, 2012, 02:44:09 PM »

I suspect C3's are similar to C2's so check the A pillars rust bubbles, particularly the lower section, the door jambs, door strikers, windscreen frame - see if you can remove trim panels, bird cage - ask if you can get them to remove the glove box.

Get a camera and take photos of underneath the dash then view them, those probe cameras come in handy.

Remove kick panels near where your feet go. Inspect the frame underneath - good if you can stab it with a screwdriver to check but some may not like everyone doing this. Take a look at the suspension, you don't want it heavy in rust.

Rub your hand along the wheel wells and check for cracks.

Check the VIN but this is like numbers matching and if you want original options, non matching is a deal breaker to some.

s

bfit · « **Reply #5 on:** January 13, 2012, 04:53:10 PM »

Richo
there is a club member building a RHD vehicle at the moment
I think he will be selling it.

Mate come along to a few meetings
meet a few people and you will be soon picking up info on what to look for
there is a BBQ third Tuesday of the month
will worth the time to go and have a chat
Bfit

Richo · « **Reply #6 on:** January 13, 2012, 05:26:25 PM »

Thanks Bfit,
Yes i did see that you meet regularly. And quite locally for me too.

Ill come along next week, and introduce myself.

Cheers

sirfixalot · « **Reply #7 on:** January 14, 2012, 07:48:34 AM »

Richo you have U2U

MR 69ER · « **Reply #8 on:** January 23, 2012, 12:55:47 PM »

I also sent you a U2U Richo!