Why C3 Corvette over a pre-built FFR 65 coupe?
10-09-2009, 03:06 PM
#1
Instructor
Thread Starter
Why C3 Corvette over a pre-built FFR 65 coupe?
All,
I have been pretty silent on the boards but have been browsing for quite some time.
I have been considering a resto-mod 69-71 C3 and also the FFR 65 Coupe. http://www.factoryfive.com/coupehome.html
Why should I pick the vette?
Im not too concerned about re-sale value and depreciation, Im looking for a toy that will be a blast to drive.
Im looking to spend 20-30k.
Thanks for your inputs, they are greatly appreciated.
Andrew
I have been pretty silent on the boards but have been browsing for quite some time.
I have been considering a resto-mod 69-71 C3 and also the FFR 65 Coupe. http://www.factoryfive.com/coupehome.html
Why should I pick the vette?
Im not too concerned about re-sale value and depreciation, Im looking for a toy that will be a blast to drive.
Im looking to spend 20-30k.
Thanks for your inputs, they are greatly appreciated.
Andrew
10-09-2009, 03:12 PM
#2
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10-09-2009, 03:19 PM
#3
Burning Brakes
All,
I have been pretty silent on the boards but have been browsing for quite some time.
I have been considering a resto-mod 69-71 C3 and also the FFR 65 Coupe. http://www.factoryfive.com/coupehome.html
Why should I pick the vette?
Im not too concerned about re-sale value and depreciation, Im looking for a toy that will be a blast to drive.
Im looking to spend 20-30k.
Thanks for your inputs, they are greatly appreciated.
Andrew
I have been pretty silent on the boards but have been browsing for quite some time.
I have been considering a resto-mod 69-71 C3 and also the FFR 65 Coupe. http://www.factoryfive.com/coupehome.html
Why should I pick the vette?
Im not too concerned about re-sale value and depreciation, Im looking for a toy that will be a blast to drive.
Im looking to spend 20-30k.
Thanks for your inputs, they are greatly appreciated.
Andrew
This quistion has no real answer to it from any body but you! These two cars are so different what is it you want dicide and go far it!
10-09-2009, 04:08 PM
#4
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10-09-2009, 05:30 PM
#7
Le Mans Master
The reason I'd choose a Vette is it's simply one of the most beautiful cars ever designed, the availability of parts, the sheer number of Vettes available, it's an American icon, there's really no limit as to what you can to do to it.
Glenn
Glenn
10-09-2009, 05:42 PM
#8
I've had 4 C3's. Each one cost between $5200-$7500. An FFR is going to run about $20,000-$30,000. That's why I buy C3's. I will own an FFR car someday. I don't have one yet because of the money and also because half the fun is BUILDING the car, which I can't devote the time to right now. Time & money are what it boils down to.
Jay
Jay
10-09-2009, 05:42 PM
#9
Melting Slicks
10-09-2009, 07:47 PM
#10
Race Director
You can get a lot of resto-mod Corvette for that kind of money. I doubt that you can do the same with the FFR 65. At the very least you need to ride in if you can't drive both of these cars. I'm going to guess that as crude as a C3 is by todays standards it's refined compared to the FFR 65.
10-09-2009, 08:31 PM
#11
Instructor
Thread Starter
All,
Thank you to all who are providing meaningful inputs.
I have driven a C4 and liked it. I want to at least ride in each before I make my decision - but yes, thats a great point.
As far as the C3, Im not too concerned about 'modern' day handling but would do some sus. work to improve it. The C3 that Im inclined to is the BB 4spd.
I love the looks of both so driving each would be great deciding factor.
Keep the inputs coming,
Andrew
Thank you to all who are providing meaningful inputs.
I have driven a C4 and liked it. I want to at least ride in each before I make my decision - but yes, thats a great point.
As far as the C3, Im not too concerned about 'modern' day handling but would do some sus. work to improve it. The C3 that Im inclined to is the BB 4spd.
I love the looks of both so driving each would be great deciding factor.
Keep the inputs coming,
Andrew
10-09-2009, 08:33 PM
#12
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Asking this on a vette forum might get some fires started
Even thought my roots are also deep into kit cars...ahem and replicas,
I staff here... www.priceofhistoys.com
I would take a ragged out c3 over a Coupe Daytona clone, but I was never a Cobra fan,
If you are building the vette as a restro rod then it can handle and perform just as well as the Daytona, and it's a "real" car not a replica, apples and oranges,
Both cars are very sweet, the coupe is cramped and more of a "art" car the vette is more refined, so to speak,
This is not something any of use can tell you, which one do you dig the most?
Even thought my roots are also deep into kit cars...ahem and replicas,
I staff here... www.priceofhistoys.com
I would take a ragged out c3 over a Coupe Daytona clone, but I was never a Cobra fan,
If you are building the vette as a restro rod then it can handle and perform just as well as the Daytona, and it's a "real" car not a replica, apples and oranges,
Both cars are very sweet, the coupe is cramped and more of a "art" car the vette is more refined, so to speak,
This is not something any of use can tell you, which one do you dig the most?
10-09-2009, 08:37 PM
#13
Safety Car
I do see your delema as i love the look of both cars too. I am also in the market for a c3. from what i have heard and seen the corvette c3 is way more refined then the kit car and if you are going on long drives (100 plus miles) i would stick with the corvette.
10-09-2009, 09:53 PM
#14
Race Director
Refined?
When I think of kit cars the old Avenger (cheap Valkyrie version) on an old VW bug floor pan that looked and operated terribly, first comes to mind.
If you compare a C3 to something like that, then yes.
The modern stuff is amazing. For long trips get a good sitting pillow or better seats.
GT40 replicas with tig welded stainless monocoques and full blown Koni double adjustable coilovers (same as used in F1 racing), a/c, pretty well all the modern comforts and race proven geometry.
There are some Cobras running around here similarily set up, but with rectangular tube frames, LS7 engines, 6 speeds with hyd throwout, rear cv axles the good Koni coilovers, a/c, and the latest rubber.
As far as the the Daytona Coupes, the very few originals were all handbuilt, so they could probably be called the original high dollars kit cars.
Comparatively, a C3 is soapbox derby material, but I still keep them.
When I think of kit cars the old Avenger (cheap Valkyrie version) on an old VW bug floor pan that looked and operated terribly, first comes to mind.
If you compare a C3 to something like that, then yes.
The modern stuff is amazing. For long trips get a good sitting pillow or better seats.
GT40 replicas with tig welded stainless monocoques and full blown Koni double adjustable coilovers (same as used in F1 racing), a/c, pretty well all the modern comforts and race proven geometry.
There are some Cobras running around here similarily set up, but with rectangular tube frames, LS7 engines, 6 speeds with hyd throwout, rear cv axles the good Koni coilovers, a/c, and the latest rubber.
As far as the the Daytona Coupes, the very few originals were all handbuilt, so they could probably be called the original high dollars kit cars.
Comparatively, a C3 is soapbox derby material, but I still keep them.
10-09-2009, 10:08 PM
#15
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Refined?
When I think of kit cars the old Avenger (cheap Valkyrie version) on an old VW bug floor pan that looked and operated terribly, first comes to mind.
If you compare a C3 to something like that, then yes.
The modern stuff is amazing. For long trips get a good sitting pillow or better seats.
GT40 replicas with tig welded stainless monocoques and full blown Koni double adjustable coilovers (same as used in F1 racing), a/c, pretty well all the modern comforts and race proven geometry.
There are some Cobras running around here similarily set up, but with rectangular tube frames, LS7 engines, 6 speeds with hyd throwout, rear cv axles the good Koni coilovers, a/c, and the latest rubber.
As far as the the Daytona Coupes, the very few originals were all handbuilt, so they could probably be called the original high dollars kit cars.
Comparatively, a C3 is soapbox derby material, but I still keep them.
When I think of kit cars the old Avenger (cheap Valkyrie version) on an old VW bug floor pan that looked and operated terribly, first comes to mind.
If you compare a C3 to something like that, then yes.
The modern stuff is amazing. For long trips get a good sitting pillow or better seats.
GT40 replicas with tig welded stainless monocoques and full blown Koni double adjustable coilovers (same as used in F1 racing), a/c, pretty well all the modern comforts and race proven geometry.
There are some Cobras running around here similarily set up, but with rectangular tube frames, LS7 engines, 6 speeds with hyd throwout, rear cv axles the good Koni coilovers, a/c, and the latest rubber.
As far as the the Daytona Coupes, the very few originals were all handbuilt, so they could probably be called the original high dollars kit cars.
Comparatively, a C3 is soapbox derby material, but I still keep them.
Sorry...you missed the boat...only a little,
The fellow said a RESTRO-MOD C3 not stock.
To compare the stock c3 to a modern Race car replica isn't fair, apples and oranges so I end that right there.
We are talking "modern" Cobra coupe VS modded C3
Well that modded C3 could be a custom frame with state of the art suspension and drive train, engine, with a C3 body..a member here owns one like that and many other restro-mod C3's will keep right up with a Daytona Coupe replica, and do it more refined, and not need a pillow in the seat...
To compair a C3 to a GT-40 well then be fair go get a Greenwood Can-am Vette...or other road race prepped modded vette.
And yes, I do know the difference between a grass roots VW rebody like the Avenger or the just as poorly built Valkyrie and a new Replica of some exotic or super car.
10-09-2009, 11:02 PM
#16
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I was seriously considering the FFR roadster with a big shiny crate engine but after driving one (a very tight squeeze) and hearing my friend in Texas who has an FFR deal with the heat, lack of a top & windows, getting caught in the rain a few times, the C3 became the better choice for me. Already have a C6, so I have the performance vehicle. I consider the lines of the 65 cobra and the C3 both classicaly an art form, so the ability to put the top up, roll up the windows and turn on the AC, and own a true classic made the C3 decision easy for me for something to maintain and drive on weekends. Something about 500 hp in a 2300 lb car sure was tempting though!
10-09-2009, 11:20 PM
#17
Race Director
I don't do boats. 
Correct me if I misread, but the OP said
not a
No not modern at all, to be a little more clear, I was pointing out the four corner coilovers on the 45 year old designs of these cars, infinately adjustable to whatever comfort/handling desired and to this day, is still a design standard almost unparalleled.
I suppose everyones' definition of refined is their own, but I sold my Pantera (older than the C3's) about a year ago, and I would call that refined compared to my C3's. Same thing, coilovers, but no cv's.
I hope you get the impression I like coilovers.
I am fortunate in the sense that down here, I see a lot of these replicas or kit cars or C3's on an almost daily basis.
You should come down here for a peek, there are Daytona coupes at a carshow every weekend.
The term kit car sort of has a tacky connotation, so a member from Jamestown, North Dakota may not have had an upclose peek at any of these kits. Could be a little informative and dispell that misconception.
BTW, the seat cushion thing was "tongue in cheek"
Anyone whining about a 100 mile drive might consider a Mercedes.
Correct me if I misread, but the OP said
but would do some sus. work to improve it
could be a custom frame with state of the art suspension and drive train
I suppose everyones' definition of refined is their own, but I sold my Pantera (older than the C3's) about a year ago, and I would call that refined compared to my C3's. Same thing, coilovers, but no cv's.
I hope you get the impression I like coilovers.
I am fortunate in the sense that down here, I see a lot of these replicas or kit cars or C3's on an almost daily basis.
You should come down here for a peek, there are Daytona coupes at a carshow every weekend.
The term kit car sort of has a tacky connotation, so a member from Jamestown, North Dakota may not have had an upclose peek at any of these kits. Could be a little informative and dispell that misconception.
BTW, the seat cushion thing was "tongue in cheek"
Anyone whining about a 100 mile drive might consider a Mercedes.
10-10-2009, 12:40 AM
#18
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On the subject of price, you can get a complete and likely very nice C3 corvette for $30,000. I doubt you woult be able to finish the Factory Five car for that ammount of money. The starting price for the kit is roughly $20,000 leaving you only $10,000 for drivetrain, paint, etc. Not enough, in my opinion. I was looking in to the estimated finishing cost for one of thier other cars, the 33 roadster, and they state on thier website $37,000. I would assume this is not far from what it would cost to finish the coupe, and in any calculator I own $20,000 (cost of car kit) + $10,000 (left over for project) does not equal $37,000 (needed to finish the project). Just my $.02.
Kelly
Kelly
10-10-2009, 08:14 AM
#19
Melting Slicks
If money wasn't an issue then it would be the 65. Beautiful car. BUT....they say it cost 40k IN PARTS, they're careful in thier wording except for "you get everything to finish the car" . EXCEPT for engine, transmission, rear end and wheels, just the small items.
10-10-2009, 09:04 AM
#20
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I don't do boats.
Correct me if I misread, but the OP said
not a
No not modern at all, to be a little more clear, I was pointing out the four corner coilovers on the 45 year old designs of these cars, infinately adjustable to whatever comfort/handling desired and to this day, is still a design standard almost unparalleled.
I suppose everyones' definition of refined is their own, but I sold my Pantera (older than the C3's) about a year ago, and I would call that refined compared to my C3's. Same thing, coilovers, but no cv's.
I hope you get the impression I like coilovers.
I am fortunate in the sense that down here, I see a lot of these replicas or kit cars or C3's on an almost daily basis.
You should come down here for a peek, there are Daytona coupes at a carshow every weekend.
The term kit car sort of has a tacky connotation, so a member from Jamestown, North Dakota may not have had an upclose peek at any of these kits. Could be a little informative and dispell that misconception.
BTW, the seat cushion thing was "tongue in cheek"
Anyone whining about a 100 mile drive might consider a Mercedes.
Correct me if I misread, but the OP said
not a
No not modern at all, to be a little more clear, I was pointing out the four corner coilovers on the 45 year old designs of these cars, infinately adjustable to whatever comfort/handling desired and to this day, is still a design standard almost unparalleled.
I suppose everyones' definition of refined is their own, but I sold my Pantera (older than the C3's) about a year ago, and I would call that refined compared to my C3's. Same thing, coilovers, but no cv's.
I hope you get the impression I like coilovers.
I am fortunate in the sense that down here, I see a lot of these replicas or kit cars or C3's on an almost daily basis.
You should come down here for a peek, there are Daytona coupes at a carshow every weekend.
The term kit car sort of has a tacky connotation, so a member from Jamestown, North Dakota may not have had an upclose peek at any of these kits. Could be a little informative and dispell that misconception.
BTW, the seat cushion thing was "tongue in cheek"
Anyone whining about a 100 mile drive might consider a Mercedes.
Keep the comparison fair,
If the C3 is pretty much stock and the Daytona is state of the art then of course the Daytona wins...in performance, looks is a matter of personal taste...
As far as the pillow in the seat comment..don't back pedal, we both know most all replicas like their real counterparts are very cramped and uncomfortable.
Makes a person look foolish, to speculate about what a person has or has not seen,
Remember...I have been doing "kit cars" and "replicas"for over 30 years...I staff www.priceofhistoys.com
I am well aware of all the stigmas the early "nightmare in a box" VW based kits had,
Most were sadly hack jobs,
I assure you I know the difference between a "kit car" and a "replica"
But there are nicely build "kit cars" and hack job replicas.
I sure would hope you believe your stock Pantera was more refined than a stock C3 of the same year, compare that "old" Pantera to a c6 even some c5's and well then the Vette is more refined. ( some would say a nice c4 is more refined than a stock Pantera )
In many cases even a stock c3 of any year is more "refined" than a replica of a racer, I didn't say the c3 was higher performing just more refined.
My point is...a restro mod C3 can be up to par with Any Cobra or Daytona or surpass it,
All replicas are not created equal nor is every restro rod C3,
It simply isn't fair to compare apples to oranges.
I think we have made our points, I am done with this one,
Have a good one,