'66 Big Block

[Mel Goff #33968]

Help! Got the mid-year bug. I'm currently searching for a '66 BB. My preference is a coupe. I'm not looking for a $50,000 Top Flight or Bloomington Gold car, but a nice restored 390hp driver with original motor and side exhaust. With prices on BB's all over the place, I have a few questions that you guys with mid-year savvy could possibly help me out with.

1) Is a budget of $30,000 realistic?

2) How much does a 400 or 425hp motor add to the car's value?

3) Located in Connecticut, it seems that prices here are lower than in the South or Western areas of the US. Can anybody comment on this?

4) Roadsters seem to command higher $$ than coupes. Is this just a trend or long standing history of mid-years?

5) I have seen a lot of nice looking driver NOM's around for 20-25k.What is a fair estimate of how much less one could expect to pay for a NOM car vs a matching numbers car?

6) This purchase is also one for investment value. Would the NOM car be a complete loser in this department?

Thanks....Mel

[Chris H.]

Re: '66 Big Block

Mel, I've just purchased my first midyear, an awesome 396 coupe. The keys to getting what you want in this hobby and not getting hosed is education. There are many shady characters all too willing to seperate you and your money. You must become an absolute exepert in the year/option car you want. You should also know what mechanical/condition (rust) problems to look for.

To this end I recommend buying a gazzilion reference books (many are located on the NCRS book store).

When you finally find a car I recommned hiring an NCRS/Blomington judge to check the car for you.

As far as NOM, correctness is most important to me versus originality. If OM is important to you I would know the correct numbers for that motor and check for broach marks on the engine pad.

Documentation (titles etc) is also desirable.

For $30k you should be able to get a decent driver. The search may take awhile and drive lots of cars before you decide. Good luck.

[Joe L.]

Re: '66 Big Block

Mel-----

I usually don't get involved in discussions of values or prices of cars, but I'll offer this:

1) Prices in the northeast may be lower since many cars that "live" there suffer from extensive corrosion problems. Any car which suffers from this type of problem is probably NOT WORTH the seller's asking price. Few sellers are prepared to accept the reality that cars which suffer from extensive birdcage and frame corrosion are only woth a TINY FRACTION of what a sound car is worth.

2) Convertibles have traditionally commanded a significant premium over coupes. Even though for most of the mid year models, convertibles were produced in greater numbers than coupes, and thus are presumably now more plentiful, demand keeps the prices for convertibles higher. Usually in the $5,000-10,000 premium range.