Importing

[Rickgt]

Hi All, I’m new to the club and my dream is to own a C3 Stingray preferably a 1970, could anyone tell me if it’s worth going to the US finding one and then trying to import it from the US or should I try to find one here in the UK
Also when is the next meet I can go to in the East Anglia region
Many thanks
Rick

 

[Nassau65]

There will be a wider choice of vehicles available in the US than here. Prices are quite/very strong in the US for corvettes especially the early C3 chrome bumper models. The exchange rate is NOT favourable to the pound and shipping is also priced in dollars.
Bargains can still be found tho, just takes time searching for them.

 

[antijam]

As Nassau says, you'll find a much greater choice in the States. If you visit the States you may have to cover a lot of ground to find a car you want, but unless you're prepared to go and check a car out yourself or you know someone over there whose honesty and expertise you trust, you'll be relying on the sellers description or you'll have to pay an unknown agent to inspect the vehicle on your behalf. Remember that your ideal car will be 54 years old but because glassfibre bodywork doesn't rust it may look perfect in pictures. It may take longer to find a car you like over here but at least you'll be able to check it for horrors like birdcage rot before you buy. There are a number of dealers over here who often have good C3's for sale, Gavin at EMC is one who has a good reputation with the club and is very helpful.
I bought my 1971 350/270 Manual convertible over here five years ago from an individual who'd imported it a couple of years earlier. He'd found it needed a lot of unexpected work that he'd spent considerable money on and that he didn't recoup from me. When I bought it it still needed a lot or work but at least I knew what I was letting myself in for.
It's taken a while and a significant expense to bring the car to the standard I want, but I do now have a presentable and reliable great drive.....



Good luck with your hunt and do remember, it's what's underneath that's important.

 

[Roscobbc]

Full membership of the club is useful - as is interaction with local CCCUK members at club meetings and visited events. You'll often get 'heads-up' not just of cars perhaps coming up for sale but also information about already on the market, whether private or trade sales.
Unfortunately so many people purchase a vehicle and only join the respective club after buying their car.......sadly some will only then find they have bought perhaps unwisely.

 

[Pitre]

Hi All, I’m new to the club and my dream is to own a C3 Stingray preferably a 1970, could anyone tell me if it’s worth going to the US finding one and then trying to import it from the US or should I try to find one here in the UK
Also when is the next meet I can go to in the East Anglia region
Many thanks
Rick

I've messaged you about the next East Anglia meeting Rick, will send you full details if you would reply

 

[Nassau65]

There was a 1970 Coupe on eBay listed on Monday. Daytona yellow, purchased in USA by current owner 20 years ago. No BIN but auction. Starting was £20k with a reserve?
Might be worth a look.

 

[Nassau65]

Inspections are readily available and IMO worth every penny. They are very comprehensive and are backed up by photos. All the inspectors are fully insured and bonded. If their inspection is faulty you can sue them. I’ve used their services a few times in NY, FL and CA. All different companies. $400-500.
Best money I’ve ever spent.

 

[Rickgt]

Hi Guys, thanks for your comments and advice, I will certainly become a full member to find and buy the car