Good time to buy a ZR-1

[ZRapid-1]

Bad time to sell.

Only one ZR-1 at this weekend's Mecum Auction.

Lot F36 // Kansas City 2016 (https://www.mecum.com/lot-detail/KA0316-235419/0/1992-Chevrolet-Corvette-ZR1/auctions.cfm?auctionID=KA0316)// Mar 11-12 https://www.mecum.com/img/sold_small.png $16,500
1992 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
LT5/375 HP, 6-Speed

Engine
350/375 HP
Color
Red

HIGHLIGHTS
- 350/375 HP engine
- 370 ft/lbs of torque
- Only 502 ZR1 Corvettes built in 1992
- One of 130 produced in Bright Red
- Believed to be 42,000 actual miles


With prices like this, it's almost worth buying a second one!

[edram454]

yes they are going for ridiculous amounts. not a good time to sell. keep the faith and enjoy your car. speculators were wrong for buying these cars new for tons of money. These cars are similar to the Porsche 928's. to me, that was the best porsche with avant garde good looks, a porsche v8 etc... but they, for whatever reason, are not worth much money. they were a lot of money new but have no resale value compared to its siblings. I think its the fear of buying a car with a reputation of having obsolete parts and few people to work on them. Nobody wants to buy a problem like that unless they are true fans of the car and willing to pay the potential price.

Porsche 928 are very expensive to work on and parts are also scare so they have the worst resale value of all the porsches. Our cars dont suffer from much engine failures or failures in general just the bose speakers, injectors etc.. that we have all replaced already. It took me a while to buy my z for that very reason.. the fear of something breaking and not being able to find or afford the fix for it. Being a member of this site made me see that this community of owners are committed to helping each other and solving problems so we can keep these cars relevant and on the road. Many people dont know about this site and quite frankly, if it wasnt for this site, I would not have bought my zr1. It is a great time to buy a z just remember you are buying to enjoy the car not for its resale value.. yet..

[gbrtng]

With prices like this, it's almost worth buying a second one![/B]

Make me an offer I can't refuse.
=D>

[PostmanZ]

Indeed great time to buy now.......however we all know what happens when the market reaches the bottom. Only way to go is back up ;-)

I recall (as a Ferrari Testarossa fan) seeing Testas selling for $35-40K even with low mileage for years and years. NOBODY wanted those things as they were deemed "totally 80's" and the styling was too outdated. Not to mention the legendary tales of 5 figure repair bills. Fast forward to 2012/2013 and all of sudden everybody and their brother HAD to have one....next thing you know $35K jumped to $135K. Same thing with the air cooled Porsche 911 market. Nobody gave a $hit about air cooled 911s for many, many years........now look at it.

These things go in waves.....eventually one day down the road years from now, these ZR1s will be deemed "must have" by enthusiasts and we'll be the ones thinking back to these days and how easy it was to get a cherry ZR1 for $20K and under.

[rkreigh]

Indeed great time to buy now.......however we all know what happens when the market reaches the bottom. Only way to go is back up ;-)

I recall (as a Ferrari Testarossa fan) seeing Testas selling for $35-40K even with low mileage for years and years. NOBODY wanted those things as they were deemed "totally 80's" and the styling was too outdated. Not to mention the legendary tales of 5 figure repair bills. Fast forward to 2012/2013 and all of sudden everybody and their brother HAD to have one....next thing you know $35K jumped to $135K. Same thing with the air cooled Porsche 911 market. Nobody gave a $hit about air cooled 911s for many, many years........now look at it.

These things go in waves.....eventually one day down the road years from now, these ZR1s will be deemed "must have" by enthusiasts and we'll be the ones thinking back to these days and how easy it was to get a cherry ZR1 for $20K and under.

value of the ZR-1 is the smiles per miles more than financial. not old enough to be a classic, and most vette guys move to the latest and greatest.

this post is spot on concerning the testarossa, and ferrari's in general

they have shot up lately I saw a pristine low mile Testarossa for 44k about 6 years ago. wish I bought it. I could tack on `100k and likely get it!!! but I buy my cars to drive not sell which I guess is why have so many vettes!!

[PostmanZ]

value of the ZR-1 is the smiles per miles more than financial. not old enough to be a classic, and most vette guys move to the latest and greatest.

this post is spot on concerning the testarossa, and ferrari's in general

they have shot up lately I saw a pristine low mile Testarossa for 44k about 6 years ago. wish I bought it. I could tack on `100k and likely get it!!! but I buy my cars to drive not sell which I guess is why have so many vettes!!



Right, as a whole, the collector/sports car hobby is in a big time "bubble" right now. A few years after the RE crash, investors started turning their sights to classic and low production sports cars and it's completely out of control right now.

As you said these ZR1's aren't quite near being considered "classics", but the time will eventually come years down the road. For classic American sports cars it usually takes a little more time for appreciation to arrive. The fact that the ZR was produced in limited quantities and the great story that came along with these cars, will be the selling points when collectors start looking for them down the road.

[ZRapid-1]

Here is an interesting list of cars which have recently increased significantly in value.

10 Undervalued Retro Cars Suddenly Skyrocketing in Value
http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/g2170/10-suddenly-collectible-retro-cars/?src=nlp&mag=POPL&list=gentlemensessentials&date=03152016

They are worth more than our Z's - but are not as much fun to drive...no free permagrin!

[Vette73]

Right, as a whole, the collector/sports car hobby is in a big time "bubble" right now. A few years after the RE crash, investors started turning their sights to classic and low production sports cars and it's completely out of control right now.

As you said these ZR1's aren't quite near being considered "classics", but the time will eventually come years down the road. For classic American sports cars it usually takes a little more time for appreciation to arrive. The fact that the ZR was produced in limited quantities and the great story that came along with these cars, will be the selling points when collectors start looking for them down the road.

I agree...I think what will def help the ZR1 is the limited number of cars that were built........What could hold it back though is the original sticker price...

Most of the cars, in fact all that were failing in the 80s-90s are way over sticker price for a really nice one now....

Can you see the ZR1 fetching 70-80 grand? Of course not, at least in my opinion..Will they and should they go up in value down the line? Yes...After all, put headers , some porting work and you have a car that can produce horsepower in the low to mid four hundred range.So,they will keep up with today's technology......You can't say the same thing for many of the so called sports cars fetching tons of money,except maybe of course the Ferraris..

Second or third owner ZR1s down the line should hopefully see an upswing in value on there car....Stay tuned.....

[Bob Eyres]

I'm kind of glad that our cars are still cars, not a commodity.

I bought mine back in '94 when you could get a virtually new one for half the new price, and they were still one of the fastest cars on the road.
Now they're about as quick as a new standard Corvette, but still a lot of fun to drive.

Pity the guy who would like to putt around in an old Splitwindow, or even a '67 big block Corvette, forget it. It will cost you five times what the car is intrinsically worth, just for a "driver". And those cars aren't even driven anymore, except by weenies who would never ever think about putting the hammer down and enjoying it like it was meant to be enjoyed. :censored:

It's a blessing that these cars aren't worth much except to the guys that love them, and love to drive them.:thumbsup:


OK, rant over :cheers:

[PostmanZ]

I'm kind of glad that our cars are still cars, not a commodity.

I bought mine back in '94 when you could get a virtually new one for half the new price, and they were still one of the fastest cars on the road.
Now they're about as quick as a new standard Corvette, but still a lot of fun to drive.

Pity the guy who would like to putt around in an old Splitwindow, or even a '67 big block Corvette, forget it. It will cost you five times what the car is intrinsically worth, just for a "driver". And those cars aren't even driven anymore, except by weenies who would never ever think about putting the hammer down and enjoying it like it was meant to be enjoyed. :censored:

It's a blessing that these cars aren't worth much except to the guys that love them, and love to drive them.:thumbsup:


OK, rant over :cheers:


Absolutely true.....the moment big money gets involved, everything turns into a goat f*ck. Countless hobbies and interests have been completely ruined by investors and speculators. Corruption, scams and gouging soon follow.

[WARP TEN]

I think Hib's Barney is the steal of the century. An exceedingly well cared for car with great history and a rare and exciting color. For peanuts. Amazing that no one has jumped on it.--Bob

[FU]

I agree with that Bob !!

[ZRapid-1]

Barrett-Jackson, Palm Beach, FL, 4/8/2016 - 4/10/2016

1991 ZR-1
Lot #504 - White with red interior, Bloomington Gold Certified, this very original ZR1 has 350/400hp with a 4-speed manual transmission. From The FAC Collection.
Sold for $19,800.

I'm still wondering when the bottom will be.


In contrast, 1977 to 1980 Trans Ams sold for $50 to $70K!
Two Buick Grand National GNXs sold for ~$120K.

And they can't compete with the performance of our ZR-1's.

[32valvesftw]

I think Hib's Barney is the steal of the century. An exceedingly well cared for car with great history and a rare and exciting color. For peanuts. Amazing that no one has jumped on it.--Bob
FACT!
Anyway, I agree with what most say that the bottom of the market may ben approaching. But I am not convinced the ZR-1 will ever fetch air cooled 911 money, why you ask? Different buyers, the cars have distinctly different personalities as do their owners. I think a Guy who buys an old 911 would have a dim view of a C4 Vette even a ZR-1. Us ZR-1 owners recognize how special the car is, many of us are DIYers, kind of cause we have to be. 911's have been around forever in basically the same configuration which breeds all sorts of experts. True LT-5 ZR-1 experts are few and far between. This makes people fearful of the LT5, and lets face one other issue...flame away guys, but a 911 is screwed together better than the Chevy, so in my opinion the 911s age better.
All said I truly hope I'm wrong and ZR-1 values will go up.
In the meantime I plan to drive the heck out of mine, and will enjoy beating 911s every chance I get.

[ghlkal]

In contrast, 1977 to 1980 Trans Ams sold for $50 to $70K!
Two Buick Grand National GNXs sold for ~$120K.



While I _suppose_ I can see mad money for a GN, but for a 77-80 "Trans Am" ??!? Good grief :cry:

[edram454]

yeah you wonder why a 1977 trans am is worth 30 to 50k.?? slow, bad quality, heavy and about 180 horsepower... who the hell wants that?? to be like burt reynolds?? have you seen him lately??? porsche 911 (volkswagen carmen ghia) anybody see the awesome performance of a 1990 911 porsche?? pathetic. The one thing these cars have is the availability of parts and experts to fix them. We lack both and that creates fear. Fear makes people run from a zr1 purchase. I ran for a long time until I finally bought one. I had to truck my car out of state to have it worked on at a grand a tow. The motor is robust and reliable but it can scare off people because such few people really are experts at diagnosing and repairing these engines.

A friend of mine recently bought a zr1 from a known person who did some of the work himself and some very important things were done incorrectly or not done at all. He is rectifying these issues and will have a great car but it had to go out of state, to an expert to be diagnosed and repaired correctly. When the car is repaired correctly and maintained correctly, it will run forever and run very good. It is the fear of one day not being able to get a part that you need to fix something. We have some people who are life savers and provide parts for our cars exclusively and that is great but unless you are in the zr1 subculture you wont know it. One day these cars will get the respect it deserves and people will realize how special it is. If a pig trans am can garner 50k then a zr1 should be 100k.

ed ramos #3028

[PostmanZ]

flame away guys, but a 911 is screwed together better than the Chevy, so in my opinion the 911s age better.


As a former owner, I wouldn't necessarily say "screwed together" better, but maybe a little more "simply" put together. My 930 was an oil slobbering son of a bitch, that no matter how many times we tried to fix the leaks....they just kept coming. Also you will be hard pressed to find many air cooled 911 turbos capable of going much past 75,000 miles without requiring a $15-20K rebuild. Luckily the owner before me absorbed that hit to the tune of $17K. The 3.2s (premature valve guide wear) and 3.6s (clutch, lack head gasket, fly wheel) also had many issues of their own that popped up from time to time. Every NON turbo air cooled 911 I drove from back in those days were complete dogs as well....you'd pin the throttle and they never felt like they went anywhere lol. If you wanted that rush, you had to go with a turbo. I would however certianly say the interior on those 911s were better looking and more simply designed than the Corvettes, but engine wise, I would take a reliable and durable LT5 power plant over anything that Porsche put out back in those days.

And let me tell you, driving a 930 in the hot desert climate like LV is asking for trouble.....I had MANY problems with oil coking in my turbos (even after always letting them cool before turning off) that led to more $$$ wasted trying to fix the problems caused by the coking. Not to mention the frequent valve adjustments became an annoyance after a while (and expensive as adjustments are something I've never wanted to toy with myself)

They're fun cars to hit the twisties with, but air cooled 911s certianly aren't as "bulletproof" as many have claimed them to be (I know first hand). The 911 itself is a cult vehicle for car club guys and enthusiasts (which drives the prices). Guys like Magnus Walker and all his buddies have done an excellent job with video blogs/reviews/stories etc. on YouTube to help build the 911 phenomenon. But as somebody who went through that, I'm glad I don't have to worry about maintaining those money pits anymore. I happily enjoy my relatively trouble free ownership with my LT5 ;-)

[Z51JEFF]

Not to hijack the topic here but Ive got a 1991 issue of R&T and they did a comparison between a ZR-1 and a 930 and it really disgusted the author the declare the Z the winner between the 2 but I do think the Porch,no spell error here,came out tops on the interior comparison. Side by side the Z just looks better.

[Tony Davila]

I had the only ZR-1 in my town and now I found two for sale, one at a car lot and another at a dealership. Both were trade in vehicles and it looks like some guys are just getting rid of them.
I knew one of the owners but not the other. They were not really a part of the brotherhood, they were just Corvette owners.

[We Gone]

I've seen some unbelievable sales over the last year, never would I have thought the ZR-1 would drop so low. If I won the lottery I would buy a warehouse full of them :) So yes it is a great time for buyers right now.

[PostmanZ]

Not to hijack the topic here but Ive got a 1991 issue of R&T and they did a comparison between a ZR-1 and a 930 and it really disgusted the author the declare the Z the winner between the 2 but I do think the Porch,no spell error here,came out tops on the interior comparison. Side by side the Z just looks better.


http://www.caranddriver.com/comparisons/1991-chevrolet-corvette-zr-1-vs-1991-porsche-911-turbo-submodel-comparison-test

This one?

[8cam]

These cars are similar to the Porsche 928's. to me, that was the best porsche with avant garde good looks, a porsche v8 etc... but they, for whatever reason, are not worth much money.

<snip>

Porsche 928 are very expensive to work on and parts are also scare so they have the worst resale value of all the porsches.

Having owned two 928s, I agree completely. Cheap to buy, most expensive cars I have ever owned, and I will never own another one even though I still like them. At least their values have started to climb.

Here is an interesting list of cars which have recently increased significantly in value.

10 Undervalued Retro Cars Suddenly Skyrocketing in Value
http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/g2170/10-suddenly-collectible-retro-cars/?src=nlp&mag=POPL&list=gentlemensessentials&date=03152016

They are worth more than our Z's - but are not as much fun to drive...no free permagrin!

Ok my judgement is pretty good, but my timing is waaaaay off. I've owned several cars on that list, but hey at least I still have one of them. I'll keep it until the value tanks again, just so I don't get all highfalutin.

It's a good time to drive.

[Hib Halverson]

Barrett-Jackson, Palm Beach, FL, 4/8/2016 - 4/10/2016

1991 ZR-1
Lot #504 - White with red interior, Bloomington Gold Certified, this very original ZR1 has 350/400hp with a 4-speed manual transmission. From The FAC Collection.
Sold for $19,800.

(snip)

The guy paid 19,800 for a ZR1 with a 4-speed?
Boy did he get ripped. Most ZR1s had 6-speeds.
;)

[FU]

The guy paid 19,800 for a ZR1 with a 4-speed?
Boy did he get ripped. Most ZR1s had 6-speeds.
;)

He didn't want the 2 extra gears.

[Vetman]

Maybe it was a 71 zr-1. That would be a 4 speed and 19000 would be a bargain! Lol

[Hib Halverson]

Maybe it was a 71 zr-1. That would be a 4 speed and 19000 would be a bargain! Lol

Ah, a first gen ZR-1....yep...19000 would be an unbelievable bargain.

I wonder if there is anyone in the ZR-1 Net Registry who owns a 71 ZR-1?

[rush91]

I was watching that Barrett Jackson auction on SPEED, when that ZR-1 came across the block. They gave the history of the ZR-1, talked about how much folks paid for them originally. Then after the final sale price, BOTH announcers said "that's all?" They were shocked by the price, as was I watching.

[PostmanZ]

I was watching that Barrett Jackson auction on SPEED, when that ZR-1 came across the block. They gave the history of the ZR-1, talked about how much folks paid for them originally. Then after the final sale price, BOTH announcers said "that's all?" They were shocked by the price, as was I watching.

Great time to buy indeed.....

[efnfast]

Ah, a first gen ZR-1....yep...19000 would be an unbelievable bargain.

I wonder if there is anyone in the ZR-1 Net Registry who owns a 71 ZR-1?
Nelson007 might. Nelson?

[32valvesftw]

By screwed together I was really thinking of interior trim and such. The LT5 is a way better built motor than the 911.

[G-Sting]

Yes, it's a good time to buy a ZR-1 and have a good time with the ZR-1! :thumbsup:

All it takes is one person 'in the spotlight' to take a liking to these unique and sporty machines, and the prices could rise overnight. I'm not going to worry about it... just going to enjoy the Z and the community here. :saluting:

[MarkSS]

I have been enjoying my newly bought ZR1... It took 25 years from when I first wanted one... But it was worth the wait.

[Vette73]

Yes, it's a good time to buy a ZR-1 and have a good time with the ZR-1! :thumbsup:

All it takes is one person 'in the spotlight' to take a liking to these unique and sporty machines, and the prices could rise overnight. I'm not going to worry about it... just going to enjoy the Z and the community here. :saluting:

Since I bought my Z back in November of 2014 I have been watching prices of these cars.....I'm noticing a lot has to do with mileage on the car....Of course the more mileage the lower the price....Consistently 90-92 cars I see in the 20-22 range for a nice quality driver...

Thing is if you look at a standard C4, prices are less than half of a ZR1....With both cars looking so similar.....Maybe just maybe it will take the standard C-4 to rise in price in order for the ZR1 to rise in value....Will see..

[Corvettes White]

Yes, it's a good time to buy a ZR-1 and have a good time with the ZR-1! :thumbsup:

All it takes is one person 'in the spotlight' to take a liking to these unique and sporty machines, and the prices could rise overnight. I'm not going to worry about it... just going to enjoy the Z and the community here. :saluting:

Wait! I'm in the spot light. Damn, the lamp is burned out. :) George

[lisounds]

yeah you wonder why a 1977 trans am is worth 30 to 50k.?? slow, bad quality, heavy and about 180 horsepower... who the hell wants that?? to be like burt reynolds?? have you seen him lately???

how special it is. If a pig trans am can garner 50k then a zr1 should be 100k.

One day these cars will get the respect it deserves and people will realize

ed ramos #3028


It is my opinion that every car has it's day. as each decade passes the once highly desired cars do start to soften in value. with the exception of a few iconic cars of course. look at the cars from the fifty's the prices of those are falling.
Now as far as the cars of the 70's they are now getting there recognition. Yes i agree they do not preform anywhere near the performance of a zr-1 but neither does a '69 camaro or 60's mustangs and we all see how much money they can bring on auction.
what puts the trans am back on the map is "Smokey and the Bandit" when i bring my trans am out to cruise night i over here people say " wow i remember the movie, i use to have one, my buddy had one in high school or the guy had one down the block when i was growing up" that is what I believe helps stimulate awareness and interest of a certain car then up goes its value at auction. because people want to relive those special time of there lives.

My prediction is the corvette c4 zr-1 Will have it's time to really shine.

The ZR-1 / LT-5 is truly in a "Super Car" class.

I fell within the this decade the ZR-1 market will rise.

Hagerty Insurance Valuation Guide is putting the car value in the $50,000 +.
in #1 condition.
So that's a start.
Once the "money people" & Collectors get into the ZR-1 Market that will light the fire.
Just as it did the Porsche air cooled cars which are the late 70's to 1996.
those Porsche's doubled in value and only the later preform like the z.

But most important Buy car that make you smile and enjoy it


Take a look at Hagerty Insurance Valuation Guide:
https://www.hagerty.com/apps/valuationtools/search/Auto?by=year





My Trans Am which i have owned for 23 years

1979 400 4 speed ws6 Y-84 (bandit package)
1 of 1107 made

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/C345VETTE/DSCF4426_zpslvjvq24z.jpg (http://s79.photobucket.com/user/C345VETTE/media/DSCF4426_zpslvjvq24z.jpg.html)

[Vette73]

It is my opinion that every car has it's day. as each decade passes the once highly desired cars do start to soften in value. with the exception of a few iconic cars of course. look at the cars from the fifty's the prices of those are falling.
Now as far as the cars of the 70's they are now getting there recognition. Yes i agree they do not preform anywhere near the performance of a zr-1 but neither does a '69 camaro or 60's mustangs and we all see how much money they can bring on auction.
what puts the trans am back on the map is "Smokey and the Bandit" when i bring my trans am out to cruise night i over here people say " wow i remember the movie, i use to have one, my buddy had one in high school or the guy had one down the block when i was growing up" that is what I believe helps stimulate awareness and interest of a certain car then up goes its value at auction. because people want to relive those special time of there lives.

My prediction is the corvette c4 zr-1 Will have it's time to really shine.

The ZR-1 / LT-5 is truly in a "Super Car" class.

I fell within the this decade the ZR-1 market will rise.

Hagerty Insurance Valuation Guide is putting the car value in the $50,000 +.
in #1 condition.
So that's a start.
Once the "money people" & Collectors get into the ZR-1 Market that will light the fire.
Just as it did the Porsche air cooled cars which are the late 70's to 1996.
those Porsche's doubled in value and only the later preform like the z.

But most important Buy car that make you smile and enjoy it


Take a look at Hagerty Insurance Valuation Guide:
https://www.hagerty.com/apps/valuationtools/search/Auto?by=year





My Trans Am which i have owned for 23 years

1979 400 4 speed ws6 Y-84 (bandit package)
1 of 1107 made

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/C345VETTE/DSCF4426_zpslvjvq24z.jpg (http://s79.photobucket.com/user/C345VETTE/media/DSCF4426_zpslvjvq24z.jpg.html)

Thanks for the Hagerty update....Presently I have my 91 Z insured for 22,000...It is definately a solid # 2 in condition....I think I will call my ins company and raise the value...I did that with my 73 Stingray years ago and I had no problem doing it..

Nice Trans Am......My first car was a 79 Trans am ....Great shape, yellow with tan interior and T-tops....It's funny how back in the day they can build such a high displacement motor and give it such crappy power....Back in the day I thought that was fast..Lol..

Had the 80 pace car years later with the turbo 301.....Who builds a turbo with no inter cooler if I remember correctly.....Had the car 60 days before it was stolen in Manhattan...

[Hib Halverson]

Someone thinks it's a good time to sell.

If we can believe this ad, 95 VIN 00447 is for sale.
http://www.cargurus.com/Cars/inventorylisting/viewDetailsFilterViewInventoryListing.action?entit ySelectingHelper.selectedEntity=c447&entitySelectingHelper.selectedEntity2=c417&radius=200&zip=01867&minMileage=0&maxMileage=39000&trimNames=NONE_NONE&trimLevelNames=NONE_NONE&colors=NONE_NONE#listing=141473609

[XfireZ51]

671 miles!

[BigJohn]

With Pete's car Bing the best ZR-1: he should get a real good price in another fifteen to twenty years!!

[PostmanZ]

Someone thinks it's a good time to sell.

If we can believe this ad, 95 VIN 00447 is for sale.
http://www.cargurus.com/Cars/inventorylisting/viewDetailsFilterViewInventoryListing.action?entit ySelectingHelper.selectedEntity=c447&entitySelectingHelper.selectedEntity2=c417&radius=200&zip=01867&minMileage=0&maxMileage=39000&trimNames=NONE_NONE&trimLevelNames=NONE_NONE&colors=NONE_NONE#listing=141473609



Definitely an exception to the rule lol....under 700 miles! :eek::eek:

Gonna be interesting to see what this fetches....this is about as new as it gets, so whatever the final bidding ends at, that's pretty much the ceiling for these cars right now. My guess is around $45,000.....don't think he even gets close $70,000.

[Bob Eyres]

Someone thinks it's a good time to sell.

If we can believe this ad, 95 VIN 00447 is for sale.



What a sad case. Because the only way to maintain it's value now is NOT to drive it. Which, in the end, is all that it is good for.

Catch 22, you lose. :cry:

I bought mine 22 years ago for half the money this car is offered for. And now, with 67K mi. of fun on it, I can still drive the hell out of it with no penalty.
This happens rarely, but......I win :dancing

IMHO, the only C4 ZR-1's worth the big bucks in the near future will be the high performance Lingenfelter cars, 415's, and turbos. They can still keep up with the fast cars a generation after they were built.

BTW Hib, have the regrets kicked in yet?

[PostmanZ]

Someone thinks it's a good time to sell.

If we can believe this ad, 95 VIN 00447 is for sale.
http://www.cargurus.com/Cars/inventorylisting/viewDetailsFilterViewInventoryListing.action?entit ySelectingHelper.selectedEntity=c447&entitySelectingHelper.selectedEntity2=c417&radius=200&zip=01867&minMileage=0&maxMileage=39000&trimNames=NONE_NONE&trimLevelNames=NONE_NONE&colors=NONE_NONE#listing=141473609


Well it's up to $50,000 now......but I smell some serious bull$hit here, reeks of shill bidding to me, especially knowing a "dealer" is selling this car :rolleyes:

eBay has become a haven for shill bidding in recent years as a means of "creating a buzz" and driving up false prices. I honestly don't trust ANY dealer auction on eBay. I've personally witnessed a dealer here in Vegas in the last couple months shill the price a VERY well used 1991 ZR1 well over $20,000.....auction ends and everybody thinks it "sold"....lol.....yeah a month later is back on EBay with a $15,000 BIN......uhhhh what happened to all the "buyers" bidding over $20,000???? Riiiiight.

[George Maz]

I've totally lost confidence in ebay & paypal.
I'd always rather buy from an owner, than a dealer.
And I have difficulty grasping the concept of owning a car that you can't actually drive the way it was intended...might as well go back to hanging posters of cars and making vroom vvrrooom noises.

[We Gone]

I've totally lost confidence in ebay & paypal.
I'd always rather buy from an owner, than a dealer.
And I have difficulty grasping the concept of owning a car that you can't actually drive the way it was intended...might as well go back to hanging posters of cars and making vroom vvrrooom noises.


100% right on :cheers:

[Paul Workman]

I've totally lost confidence in ebay & paypal.
I'd always rather buy from an owner, than a dealer.
And I have difficulty grasping the concept of owning a car that you can't actually drive the way it was intended...might as well go back to hanging posters of cars and making vroom vvrrooom noises.

Ah, so true...on both counts!:cheers:

[Dockroger]

So what's wrong with your cars gaining significant value
These cars represent a turning point in GM's. history
It's great that you got to enjoy them at the grass routes level
They are awesome cars
Let the marketplace take its rightful direction

[KILLSHOTS]

So what's wrong with your cars gaining significant value
These cars represent a turning point in GM's. history
It's great that you got to enjoy them at the grass routes level
They are awesome cars
Let the marketplace take its rightful direction
You may want to read the entire thread to gain some context.

[jay23ls]

Read through several of these posts. Its good to know you guys are enjoying your Zs like they should be enjoyed. I almost bought one but want to travel the world next year, probably my only chance, so I got a C4 for about 8.5k and it needs only about $2k in work

I was shocked at how much attention the car was getting that day I bought it and drove it home. I think the C4/ZR1 styling is starting to really catch ppl's eyes w/ so much pop culture being centered around 80s & 90s items and icons.

You got movies (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Jurassic World and how it tied to JP), clothing, certain music genres and of course other cars from that period becoming incredibly popular. And even ppl who didn't experience that generation want to be cool and have a part of it. And they got $$$ so prices should go up, just hard to tell how much for a Z or C4.

I'm seriously considering buying a $6-7k C4 as my DD. Why spend the $6k on a beater sedan from 2005/2006? lol

[PostmanZ]

Read through several of these posts. Its good to know you guys are enjoying your Zs like they should be enjoyed. I almost bought one but want to travel the world next year, probably my only chance, so I got a C4 for about 8.5k and it needs only about $2k in work

I was shocked at how much attention the car was getting that day I bought it and drove it home. I think the C4/ZR1 styling is starting to really catch ppl's eyes w/ so much pop culture being centered around 80s & 90s items and icons.

You got movies (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Jurassic World and how it tied to JP), clothing, certain music genres and of course other cars from that period becoming incredibly popular. And even ppl who didn't experience that generation want to be cool and have a part of it. And they got $$$ so prices should go up, just hard to tell how much for a Z or C4.

I'm seriously considering buying a $6-7k C4 as my DD. Why spend the $6k on a beater sedan from 2005/2006? lol



We see this trend with every generation as they hit their 30's and 40's. Back in the 80's and early 90's, sports cars from the 50's and 60's exploded in value because those cars were what my dad's generation grew up with. Same with baseball cards of that generation. A 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card was next to worthless in the 1970's.....once those 35 to 45 year olds in the 1980's starting feeling nostalgic about their boyhood baseball cards, prices started skyrocketing. Now today that 52 Mantle approaches a half million dollars in higher grades......totally absurd for a piece of cardboard with an image printed on it (in which THOUSANDS of them were printed) went from being worthless in the 70's to worth than most people's house today!

We're seeing similar trends now with this generation of 30-45 year olds who grew up the 80's and 90's. Now they have disposable income to spend on nostalgic items from their childhood. Everything 80's is taking off like wildfire now. Time will tell if it starts affecting the prices on C4 Vettes.

[jay23ls]

We see this trend with every generation as they hit their 30's and 40's. Back in the 80's and early 90's, sports cars from the 50's and 60's exploded in value because those cars were what my dad's generation grew up with. Same with baseball cards of that generation. A 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card was next to worthless in the 1970's.....once those 35 to 45 year olds in the 1980's starting feeling nostalgic about their boyhood baseball cards, prices started skyrocketing. Now today that 52 Mantle approaches a half million dollars in higher grades......totally absurd for a piece of cardboard with an image printed on it (in which THOUSANDS of them were printed) went from being worthless in the 70's to worth than most people's house today!

We're seeing similar trends now with this generation of 30-45 year olds who grew up the 80's and 90's. Now they have disposable income to spend on nostalgic items from their childhood. Everything 80's is taking off like wildfire now. Time will tell if it starts affecting the prices on C4 Vettes.

Yeah, 80s stuff is fire. I've shown pics of my newly acquired C4 to ppl (female friends) who don't give a rats arse about cars and they really like it :-D

But I think the 80s and early 90s were special. I dont think America will care about the 50s, 60, 70s like they will the 80s.

Great to see yall are enjoying your Zs though. Maybe I'll have one one day :D

[Dynomite]

Yeah, 80s stuff is fire. I've shown pics of my newly acquired C4 to ppl (female friends) who don't give a rats arse about cars and they really like it :-D

But I think the 80s and early 90s were special. I dont think America will care about the 50s, 60, 70s like they will the 80s.

Great to see yall are enjoying your Zs though. Maybe I'll have one one day :D

Well.......if you can get the ZR-1 SMOGGED in SOCAL.....that is the BIG Question :p

[BlackSheepz]

Speaking of good time to buy, how about a 90 ZR-1 Black/Red with only 700 miles on it?

Stumbled on this one today, I feel like $29,900 is a VERY reasonable price for this... Wish I had an extra $30k sitting around. It's my Dream Color Combo!

http://www.vettehound.com/geo/classifieds.php?a=2&b=10095 (http://www.vettehound.com/geo/classifieds.php?a=2&b=10095)

[jay23ls]

Well.......if you can get the ZR-1 SMOGGED in SOCAL.....that is the BIG Question :p

Man I was sooo eager to jump on one that had a great price that I almost didn't think about researching potential smog issues. Luckily for me (in a way) it sold by the time I contacted the seller.

[jay23ls]

Speaking of good time to buy, how about a 90 ZR-1 Black/Red with only 700 miles on it?

Stumbled on this one today, I feel like $29,900 is a VERY reasonable price for this... Wish I had an extra $30k sitting around. It's my Dream Color Combo!

http://www.vettehound.com/geo/classifieds.php?a=2&b=10095 (http://www.vettehound.com/geo/classifieds.php?a=2&b=10095)

So crazy. Must be one of those investor Zs.

[Z51JEFF]

Speaking of good time to buy, how about a 90 ZR-1 Black/Red with only 700 miles on it?

Stumbled on this one today, I feel like $29,900 is a VERY reasonable price for this... Wish I had an extra $30k sitting around. It's my Dream Color Combo!

http://www.vettehound.com/geo/classifieds.php?a=2&b=10095 (http://www.vettehound.com/geo/classifieds.php?a=2&b=10095)

This cars been kicking around for more than a year. Last time I saw it for sale I think it was maybe $45,000. It's got paint issues and a few scuffs here and there but at $30,000 that a smokin price and a desirable color combination.

[Bob Eyres]

"I think the 80s and early 90s were special. I dont think America will care about the 50s, 60, 70s like they will the 80s."

[/QUOTE]

Wow, that's the first time I've seen that opinion expressed. I guess it's evidence that the generations are really passing, and the boomers like me are truly becoming ancient and over the hill.
My life actually parallels the history of the Corvette in some ways. My first experience with a Corvette was when Dad took me down to the Chevy dealer to see the new 1953 "plastic" sports car. Now that's old :)
A lot of us from that era think the sixties was the "golden era", especially for the Corvette.
Unlike the eighties, there were three generations of Corvettes within ten years C1's, C2's, and C3's. With a wide, and wild variety of engines and drivetrains. From the boulevard cruisers, to the beasts that had no real function other than racing. That was a hell of an era for automotive development and design.

My earnings peaked in the eighties, that's probably why I bought a ZR-1 then, when they were still making them. And I still have it. I can't imagine myself ever buying a C7, it's just too 21st. Century for me :)

There's no doubt that the ZR-1 has always been, and will always be a very special Corvette. But I've got my doubts whether, in the future, there will be enough "car guys" to bid them up to big money like the geezers of today do with those great sixties Corvettes.

[BigJohn]

Yep, most of the late Seventy's and early Eighty's cars and trucks were not very reliable; when you turned off the ignition they would continue running for a few seconds.

[8cam]

"I think the 80s and early 90s were special. I dont think America will care about the 50s, 60, 70s like they will the 80s."

Wow, that's the first time I've seen that opinion expressed. I guess it's evidence that the generations are really passing, and the boomers like me are truly becoming ancient and over the hill.
My life actually parallels the history of the Corvette in some ways. My first experience with a Corvette was when Dad took me down to the Chevy dealer to see the new 1953 "plastic" sports car. Now that's old :)
A lot of us from that era think the sixties was the "golden era", especially for the Corvette.
Unlike the eighties, there were three generations of Corvettes within ten years C1's, C2's, and C3's. With a wide, and wild variety of engines and drivetrains. From the boulevard cruisers, to the beasts that had no real function other than racing. That was a hell of an era for automotive development and design.

My earnings peaked in the eighties, that's probably why I bought a ZR-1 then, when they were still making them. And I still have it. I can't imagine myself ever buying a C7, it's just too 21st. Century for me :)

There's no doubt that the ZR-1 has always been, and will always be a very special Corvette. But I've got my doubts whether, in the future, there will be enough "car guys" to bid them up to big money like the geezers of today do with those great sixties Corvettes.

I was born in 68 and definitely a child of the 70s/80s, lots of great memories from then. Lots of my friends feel the same way, and things from the 80s are becoming collectible. I couldn't care less about C1s or C2s, just don't do anything for me...but I do appreciate the unique style of the C2. Early C3s are very cool, but after driving them I can't stand the way they feel. But when the C4 landed, I thought it was straight from space, amazing style, clean and unfussy, more euro than US, which is probably why most of the Corvette world doesn't like them (and probably why I like them). Even Chevy "corrected" that with the C5/6/7, going more and more 'murrican-gonzo with each generation. Traditional "Corvette" people will never think much of the C4, but 80s people like me just might push them up a bit. It's always a good time to buy one!

FWIW I think the C7 is awesome, totally over the top American style, in your face and proud of it. But I probably won't ever buy one.

[Racinfan83]

But I've got my doubts whether, in the future, there will be enough "car guys" to bid them up to big money like the geezers of today do with those great sixties Corvettes.

Yeah I shake my head at some of that. I was at a show in Ky last year, there was an older couple there with a 69 convertible. Junk. Wouldn't stay running, top didn't work, paint about a 2 out of 10, cracks in body, interior roached, just junk I tell Ya. My DD beater 98 Civic with 250k miles is in better shape. They had a For Sale sign on it with $19k. And people were actually talking to them about it. Unfrickinbelievable. :confused::redface::dontknow::eek:

[ZRapid-1]

On the topic of 80’s car values, Buick Grand Nationals also have appeal to some people.

Here’s a typical example:
Feature Car: 1987 Buick Grand National
Sold at $25,300
S/N 1G4GJ1170HP433961
Black over black-and-gray cloth interior. 245-hp, 3.8-liter turbocharged OHV V-6; four-speed automatic transmission. Power features, tilt steering wheel, air-conditioning, high-power factory stereo. Good paint, brightwork, and black trim. All-original interior shows well. A good, clean example but far from brand new with 48,752 miles.
http://www.automobilemag.com/news/the-2016-barrett-jackson-russo-and-steele-auctions-in-scottsdale/ (http://www.automobilemag.com/news/the-2016-barrett-jackson-russo-and-steele-auctions-in-scottsdale/)

Nothing exceptional about this one – but it did bring $25K. And it’s not even the highly sought after Buick GNX.
Think of the Buick GNX as an upgrade to the Buick Grand National - as the ZR-1 is an upgrade to the base Corvette.

Thus, it really does seem like the bottom is near.

[Johnny5]

yes they are going for ridiculous amounts. not a good time to sell. keep the faith and enjoy your car. speculators were wrong for buying these cars new for tons of money. These cars are similar to the Porsche 928's. to me, that was the best porsche with avant garde good looks, a porsche v8 etc... but they, for whatever reason, are not worth much money. they were a lot of money new but have no resale value compared to its siblings. I think its the fear of buying a car with a reputation of having obsolete parts and few people to work on them. Nobody wants to buy a problem like that unless they are true fans of the car and willing to pay the potential price.

Porsche 928 are very expensive to work on and parts are also scare so they have the worst resale value of all the porsches. Our cars dont suffer from much engine failures or failures in general just the bose speakers, injectors etc.. that we have all replaced already. It took me a while to buy my z for that very reason.. the fear of something breaking and not being able to find or afford the fix for it. Being a member of this site made me see that this community of owners are committed to helping each other and solving problems so we can keep these cars relevant and on the road. Many people dont know about this site and quite frankly, if it wasnt for this site, I would not have bought my zr1. It is a great time to buy a z just remember you are buying to enjoy the car not for its resale value.. yet..

AMEN to the BROTHERHOOD!!

[Z51JEFF]

They are awesome cars
Let the marketplace take its rightful direction
That would be great if that direction didn't keep pointing in the toilet.

[G-Sting]

That would be great if that direction didn't keep pointing in the toilet.

The toilet is a great place... to sit and contemplate buying a second ZR at these prices! :mrgreen::-D:D

[Performawheels]

If you want a ZR-1, it's never a bad time to buy. No one makes or loses money on a car until they sell it. I'm not as troubled about the monetary value of the car as I am that its significance in Corvette/sports car history isn't better known or appreciated.....these cars are so cool!:Eagle:

[ZRapid-1]

contemplate buying a second ZR at these prices! :mrgreen::-D:D

You're thinking what I'm thinking....mine is stock and I think I gotten used to the power and want more!!!! The second one would be modified. I like the idea of 510 HP. Marc Haibeck's engines are future classics.

[G-Sting]

You're thinking what I'm thinking....mine is stock and I think I gotten used to the power and want more!!!! The second one would be modified. I like the idea of 510 HP. Marc Haibeck's engines are future classics.

Yes!

… I mean, No!

I mean… YES! Exactly. :-D

[We Gone]

You're thinking what I'm thinking....mine is stock and I think I gotten used to the power and want more!!!! The second one would be modified. I like the idea of 510 HP. Marc Haibeck's engines are future classics.


No one can have just one I went the Haibeck route 2 years ago and want more!!

[Sphinx]

There's an interesting "price compression" that I think is going on. There are a ton of cars in a very narrow price range. $10-15k gets you a well worn 100k to a clean 50K car. You only need a motivated seller. Otherwise the cars are just sitting there. I decided two weeks ago to get a zr1 and now I'm just hunting for a good deal. I just can't believe how good they are. I was going to buy an old miata till I saw how these are selling.

[XfireZ51]

You're thinking what I'm thinking....mine is stock and I think I gotten used to the power and want more!!!! The second one would be modified. I like the idea of 510 HP. Marc Haibeck's engines are future classics.

Another, possibly less expensive alternative, is to buy a second motor, and have it modified while keeping the original for stock.

[ZRapid-1]

ZR-1 Auction results this weekend:

1990 Red / Black,
18,000 Miles,
$22,000


1990 Black / Black,
Mileage N/A,
$18,000


1990 Dark Red Metallic / Saddle,
53,500 Miles,
$18,000

Drive 'em and enjoy 'em. I know I am.

:iroc:

[Bob Eyres]

If you want a ZR-1, it's never a bad time to buy. No one makes or loses money on a car until they sell it. I'm not as troubled about the monetary value of the car as I am that its significance in Corvette/sports car history isn't better known or appreciated.....these cars are so cool!:Eagle:

Exactly. I think the disappointment expressed here is mostly due to the perceived lack of respect. Because respect in the collector car world is expressed in $$$$$$.

Do those current auction results indicate a slight up-tick in re-sale value? Or is it my imagination?

[PostmanZ]

Exactly. I think the disappointment expressed here is mostly due to the perceived lack of respect. Because respect in the collector car world is expressed in $$$$$$.

Do those current auction results indicate a slight up-tick in re-sale value? Or is it my imagination?


$22,000 for an 18,000 mile ZR1 doesn't scream uptick to me. I think on average the market is still WAY in favor of the buyer right now. And will continue to be for the foreseeable future.

[Vette73]

I think it's just time to stop worrying about price values and enjoy the car.....Think about it, after the third generation late 60s early 70s stingrays what Corvette has seen a huge bump in resale? What? Maybe a low mileage pace car?

Even a C5 Z06 are selling for low 20s for a nice example...I believe that car when it came out was around 58,000.....

The ZR1 may very well get an upswing in price down the line due to its limited production numbers, but to me it's going to take a while....

In the meantime a true car guy or a Vette guy will compliment a nice C4 ZR1 when he sees one because they are rare..

[ghlkal]

In the meantime a true car guy or a Vette guy will compliment a nice C4 ZR-1 when he sees one because they are rare..

I agree. I've found that many car guys and Vette guys do know what a special car the ZR-1 is. :)

[Dafink]

So those of you that think these will appreciate and become collectibles, what is your best guess as far as when? I think the build #'s will make this car desirable at some point as well, my best guess is about 10 years out when they are over 30 years old.

I am taking delivery tomm of my new to me 91, white over red. I will add the vin to the registry and drive it on the reg.

[BigJohn]

So those of you that think these will appreciate and become collectibles, what is your best guess as far as when? I think the build #'s will make this car desirable at some point as well, my best guess is about 10 years out when they are over 30 years old.

I am taking delivery tomm of my new to me 91, white over red. I will add the vin to the registry and drive it on the reg.

It is normally about forty years to get it out of the clunker stage!


:(

[Vette73]

The limited production numbers should help somewhat....
The C4 generation is not the most popular but the LT-5 motor
should help the value of the ZR-1...

[Fully Vetted]

Styling always seems to comes around. Who thought the 70's would end up being cool and now look. The 80's are beginning to come into their own even.

[Vette73]

Still can't get over what the Trans ams are going for..

I owned a 79 and the 80 pace car ( crappy motor) in the eighties..

Don't know why people go crazy over smokey and the Bandit....I mean the movie was OK......Funny thing is every dealer who gets a black and gold Trans am advertises it as a smokey and the bandit edition....

Hey everybody I believe the original car was a 77 with black vinyl interior....The second was I believe an 80 turbo with black interior...Anyway except for a decent amount of torque they were not performance cars but if you do spot one on the road, it does garnish a ton of looks...

[George Maz]

So, we just didn't get a good enough movie role?

...the height of values was initial dealership sales, not to be seen again. In 1997 all I could do was drool and hope for a ride in a ZR-1...a modified ride I never forgot. Years later, I now own two Z's, grateful for the slump in C4 market. I absolutely love the exclusivity connoisseurs choice of this legendary ZR-1...even better that it's underground, unappreciated, and basement bargain priced.
Enjoy them...fully.

[Corvettes White]

What good is whiskey if it just stays in the bottle?

[Dafink]

I agree that all cars are meant to be driven and not parked, but this discussion is just about value not desire to drive/garage.

So lets assume that the magic # is 40 years. What do you think the price does between now and than? I just don't know how low a the price can go on these cars. Are there any other cars that are a good comp on the ZR1's?

[RussMcB]

Anybody posting here what they think these cars are worth in 15 years is guessing or wishing. Just think about all of the variables that would affect prices (and those are only the variables you can think of).

[Dafink]

I don't think anyone is asking for a definitive answer, this is a discussion in a message board. Feel free to guess away. Nobody is giving out grades for accuracy.

[RussMcB]

I don't think anyone is asking for a definitive answer, this is a discussion in a message board. Feel free to guess away. Nobody is giving out grades for accuracy.OK. I think the value will go up 13%.

We'll check back in May, 2031 and see if I was right. :-)

Happy Memorial Day weekend!

[Dafink]

13% on 20gs ain't much, better than -13% I guess

[32valvesftw]

The one thing that may help the value of all "classic cars" is the rise of the Hybrid and electric cars. My personal opinion is that in time the electrics cars and their self driving features, will make gas burners a rarity / novelty.
For what it is worth I bought mine because its a great value for the money when you consider speed, handling, and fun factor.

[8cam]

I think they will pace inflation, maybe plus a few percentage points. I used to think they were headed up but not so much any more. I'll just keep on driving.

[mike100]

I figure that GM will have to have an unsuccessful model or make them massively complex, make the C8 $150k and produced in very small volumes, or discontinue vettes entirely to make the older ones worth a lot. Even C6 Z06's are really affordable...

maybe if vettes go Tesla and toss the ICE, then you will have the demand for the older ones improve. The best modern example is the air cooled vs water cooled Porsches.

[ZRapid-1]

One thing that seems consistent is that when new, ZR-1s were about double the price of a base corvette.

That seems to still be the case.

Base C4s are just very inexpensive today.

[JFFerner]

What good is whiskey if it just stays in the bottle?
I'll drink to that!