Im restoring a 78SA.  It appears Im very lucky as this car is in very good shape.  Literally been parked in a barn since 90. Last registered in 89. It is 100% original with the exception of the EFE set up of which I have most of the components. Ive repaired all of the vacuum systems everything works. Ive traced and repaired all of the electrical system and its all working fine, even the alarm. Radio works fine but I havent found an 8-track to test the tape player. Original wheels shined up pretty good. The original paint isnt horrible, just spiderwebed. Ive sanded and painted the frame and engine compartment,  rebuilt front and rear suspension with rubber instead of poly to stay original. My dilemma is what to do under the hood. Engine is in the machine shop and and everything is OK. I see so many cars with beautiful engines and I would like to improve the performance of my engine and the looks under the hood.  Am I hurting the value of this car by not staying stock and original under the hood? I have to make a decision soon as engine parts need to be ordered. Stock exaust or headers? Chrome or no chrome?  I value everyones opinion here.  If there was ever a place to "ask the experts" this is it.

As long as anything you do is "bolt on", and you keep all of the original parts, you're not really gonna hurt the value.
A little bling is fine.

Don, got my '72 in February and intend to go the entire opposite way, i.e., all original and even shooting for NCRS top flight someday.  It seems that you can't win at the local car shows unless you have some "bling" as Joel mentioned.  Oh well, I don't go to the car shows for trophies but just to enjoy comraderie with fellow classic car owners and showing my car off to appreciative 'Vette lovers

The question... is the car for an investment or to drive and enjoy.  You can have it both ways.  Like Joel said keep all the original parts, then "personalize" it to your taste and enjoy.

Stock is excellent.  If not keep the parts.

I personally like a more personalized look. I think that "bling" as some of the other people suggest is just that. Its appealing to the eyes. I like to lift the hood up and show off some shine. Of course I also beleive they should be "driven like ya stole it!"

I just want a little "bling."  I dont have the money to make this a competition show car, stock or custom. At least not for a while.  I am rebuilding the engine and thinking about maybe a chrome water pump, breather, refinishing my stock valve covers, maybe chrome headers. This car is soooo original though. Heck, I even have my ugly yellow spare tire ( never been on the ground ).  Im not sure what the future holds as far as how long I will keep her.  I know Im in love now. Reminds me of when I was engaged.  I just dont want to get together with you guys and someone say " OMG!  You Ruined This Car "

Burleson, TX?  We're practically neighbors!  Sometimes just talking about your ideas will help you clarify your own thoughts and make a decision regardless if the other persons ideas are different.  Would love to see your L82 in person and be a sounding board. Will be out of town this weekend, but send contact info in a PM.