Numbers-Matching Corvette Born to Run Down Thunder Road
Numbers-Matching Corvette Born to Run Down Thunder Road
Backed by a numbers-matching 350, New Jersey-based ’69 Corvette the perfect escape from the darkness on the edge of town.
The early years of the C3-era Corvette were also its finest. Born at the peak of the muscle car era, the ‘Vette possessed sharp, muscular looks to go with its assortment of V8s. It swam through long highways and mean streets like the badass it was. Few could touch the glory of the first Stingray, and only the Seventies could soften its edge.
Not too long ago, we happened upon this 1969 Corvette living in the land of Bruce Springsteen himself, New Jersey. To say this was born to run down Thunder Road from the darkness on the edge of town would be an understatement.
The current owner picked up this Corvette 16 years ago, adding 4,000 miles worth of stories along the way. It also has a few scratches and chips in its paint, plus a crack at the top of the driver’s side door. Of course, those are just scars with stories of their own to tell, adding to the charm this ‘Vette has.
Through it all, the matching-numbers 350 V8 carried the Corvette to the promised land over some 62,000 total known miles. Backed by a three-speed auto, the big V8 sings its song across the badlands through a set of side pipes. A full set of Goodyear Eagles plant the heavy power down upon the road, while four discs bring it all to a stop.
Inside, the Corvette’s well-loved seats include a patch of tape on the driver’s outer bolster. In front of the driver, an aftermarket steering wheel guides the ‘Vette through every twist and turn and toll booth. There’s an AM/FM radio for picking up your favorite songs from “The Boss,” and a removable hardtop to keep trouble away.
Most Corvettes of this time in the C3 Era usually live sheltered lives in the present day. This one, though, is lived-in, ready to go dancing in the dark with a few pink Cadillacs in Atlantic City. Gems like these stand above the rest, attracting all the attention all the way home.
Photos: Bring a Trailer
