C3 Choices...
 

I am looking at buying a C3 vette...

Either a 70-72 Lt1 roadster or a 69 L71 coupe...
Anyone who has both or either give me the pros and cons...

We have a '70 LT1 Convertible. Al Grenning certified engine and trim tag. Born with OEM drivetrain and an original nose. The heads were ported, slightly bigger cam, .30 over otherwise bone stock. It got an M21 and 4.11s. What a kick ass car. I think total production was about 1200 LT1s in 1970. Convertibles are about 20% of that production I think. They're not easy to find but make a wonderful car. The LT1 is one of my favorite motors ever built. Also, the sharks sit lower, they're sleeker cars... very nice driver experience and with the small block, you don't have the weight of the L71 in the nose.

The Weight and feel was my question... I had a 69 L46 m20 3.70 which I LOVED. I sold it when I went off to college in 1990... wished I still had it.
I flew up and looked at a one owner Original paint daytona yellow 70 LT1 (scale on and in the frame and needs rad support) the other day and am considering a Mulsanne over Blue 70 LT1 roadster (no frame issues) but through a friend have the chance to pick up a 55k mile never been apart Blue Blue redline 69 L71 3.70 M21 which needs paint... Born with drive train formerly owned by Kevin McKay.

3.70 with an M20 L46 feels about the same as a 4.11 with a M21 out of the hole...
Effective first gear ratios
3.70x2.52=9.34
4.11x2.20=9.042

I figured the strong LT1 with the right gearing would be BRUTAL and fun to drive without the big block weight.

Well the 68 L71's are a little less money but long term either the 70 LT1 or 69 L71 would be the best investment overall James. We have a C3 but its a 68 427/400.

I would take a 68 L88...if you twisted my arm... hard. ;)
Personal taste and probably because it's what I had (69 L46 Daytona Yellow) when I was 18... I like the interiors of 69's look much better DASH and door panel wise, I prefer the drop down door handles, and don't like the back up lamp below bumper look.
I really would prefer an original paint car. Probably should have bought the 70 Daytona Yellow LT1 the other day complete to smog pump and tcs solenoids but the rad support being crunchy was concerning.

Don't forget the smallest 427. The 390 H.P. They are easier on the wallet and are very street/driver friendly. What you can save on purchase price can be applied to a higher quality car purchase if you have a certain budget to stay within. Awesome ride for your buck !!! ROB

There is a huge difference in SOLID LIFTERS which is why I stick with solid lifter 4 speed cars.

C-3 Choices
 

X-2 on the Solid Lifter 4-Speeds

I obviously LOVE Big Blocks but after owning an original, un-restored 69 gold L-89 Coupe, I would prefer a LT-1 4:11 gear small block in a C-3. You just can't beat a high winding small block. Just my opinion.
Bill

Totally agree, Nothing beats a Solid lifter 4 speed. Just offering out other options for a budget/driver C3. ROB

I loved my L46... the ability to rev and the light nose are appealing, however I have lusted after L71's since the MID 1980's, that being said... I have since realized that falling in lust or love with a car rarely gets you anywhere other than spending more than you intended.