By 1968, the Corvette had run for two generations and the third generation made its appearance. Sadly, most of the third generation, which spanned 1968 to 1980 would see the worst of the Malaise Era and emissions controls. Power outputs would be severely constricted as a result. This is why pre-1973 cars such as this 1969 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray are comparatively desirable to their younger brethren. This particular example has done a light for its age 79,899 miles and appears to be a well-kept example.

Exterior and Interior

The third generation Corvette would see a radical new styling direction by Bill Mitchell and Zora Arkus-Duntov. Modeled after a concept car by Larry Shinoda called the Mako Shark, the bulbous fenders, and muscular outlook would set it apart from the second, as well as fourth generations. This 1969 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray comes with a dark blue paintjob and polished silver rims that play host to suitably meaty BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires. The pop-up headlamps on the C3 are present and correct, and take a moment to note the semi-podded appearance of the double headlamps, as well as the fact that they can be partially viewed through the grille when lowered. Further details include the white detailing on the inner parts of the side vents, the iconic Chevrolet logo, and the Stingray badging, which on the third generation onwards, became one word rather than two. The black two-seat interior of this 1969 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray appears in similarly good condition, and appears as period correct as possible. Purists will note the push-button radio, original gauges, and the little indicators in the cabin that alert the driver if a tail lamp or license plate lamp is out. The center console hosts a plaque with the engine power and torque figures, as well as switches for the power windows.

Engine

As the plaque on the center console informs us, this 1969 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray packs a 350ci V8 that was factory rated for 350hp and 380lb-ft, with a 11:1 compression ratio. This is one of the major reasons why early third-gen ‘Vettes are so desirable, as by 1975, the 350ci was strangled to its lowest output of just 165hp! A Turbo-Hydramatic 3-speed automatic gearbox handles power transfer to the rear wheels.