Topic: Numbers Matching
in Forum: C3 General Discussion
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Was wondering what dictates a numbers matching Vet. I have read the engine, trans and rear-end are all stamped. I bought a 1980 L48 that has only 17,000 miles on it but it was wrecked. I haven’t actually received the car yet (October 3rd its delivered) but it looks like the front clip might need replaced.. Definitely needs a hood but maybe just the passenger’s front fender…. So even if I find NOS parts I assume they need to be from 1980…Any help would be appreciated! Also I live in Pa. are there any good Salavage yards around?
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As I understand, that's sort of a "basic" description of a numbers matching car and those three items alone constitute some degree of collectibility. However, it goes further in that you can determine the markings, casting numbers and date codes on all of the engine parts to be sure that for instance, the engine still has its original cylinder heads, water pump, carburetor, etc. In fact, a whole bunch of parts all over the car have special markings, casting numbers and date codes. If you wish to pursue a "top flight" certification from the NCRS authenticating your vettes restoration, then you'd need to get the judging manuals for the 1980 vette and make sure that any parts that you replace are not only from a 1980 vette, but also, if the part is date coded, that the part was manufactured within the acceptible date range for your vettes assembly date, generally up to six months prior. Given that your vette was wrecked and will require a new front clip doesn't preclude it from being flight judged as a restoration, but will likely preclude it from getting any certifications of originality such as the "Bowtie" or "Duntov" awards or Bloomington Survivor. With such low mileage, it might be worth it to pursue a flight award for authenticity, but on the other hand, depending on the amount of damage from the wreck, it may be perfectly acceptible to replace some parts with generic aftermarket or even to customize the car. I would encourage you to join the NCRS and do some research before deciding how to restore it. Good luck.

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Duncanville, TX - USA
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Vette(s): #1-1974 L-48 4spd Cp Med Red Metallic/Black deluxe int w/AC/tilt/tele./p/w-p/b/
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Take a look at this Matching Numbers thread, also.
The term is wildly out of control, imho. You can actually build a "matching numbers" car out of 15 wrecks....that don't make it real...OR original...the more honest term is "Factory installed components"

Take a look at this Matching Numbers thread, also.

The term is wildly out of control, imho. You can actually build a "matching numbers" car out of 15 wrecks....that don't make it real...OR original...the more honest term is "Factory installed components"
Joel Adams
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in Forum: C3 General Discussion
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