If you had to choose between a '78 Trans AM and a '78 Corvette which would you pick?

[David K]

This is may be clear cut to some people but I have a fetish for both classic Trans Ams and Corvettes in general.

Here's the story:

Recently I've been searching for a classic car to work on for when I get back from Ft. Jackson, SC. I came across a both these cars at two different places. I found the '78 Corvette for $5000 from a guy who rebuilds classic cars, he hadn't worked on the 'vette yet. It was in excellent condition and with the exception that the seats need to be replaced.

I found the Trans AM from a Good Ole Boy who was getting tired of it sitting around. He offered me the same price however the engine had been removed so I would need to get it back under the hood. The owner has no idea how many miles are on it and the interior has terrible water damage. But he also told for an additional $1000 he would throw in a 81 Trans Am in a parts car. Now I love Trans AMs but this one does not have the T-top like Bandit's car which to me is a major turn off.

 

[matt]

neither id get a FORD

 

[kb9pvj]

The corvette is the winner over the trans am. When you get the corvette, put some side pipes on it. You'll love the sound and look. Best of luck.

 

[McLaren]

The price sounds decent for the Corvette, but high for the Trans Am given the described condition. However, this is one of the rare situations where when finished a T/A would likely be worth more than a Corvette. Even though they are both horrible in terms of performance for some reason the late 70's T/A has quite a following, especially the '78. I'd assume that Smokey & the Bandit has the most to do with that. The mid 70's - early 80's Corvette's are fairly un-loved models. They may eventually become more collectible than they are now, but I doubt that they will ever be very valuable. The '78 pace cars bring decent money, but in general $5k will buy decent late C3 Vette's all day.