2009 Corvette Price Guide: C1-C6 Generational Pricing Highlights

In our final analysis of 2008’s Corvette prices, we present an overview of Corvette values by generation. This is an interesting time for Corvette buyers as many models are still showing appreciation despite the lagging market. And with some of the more collectible Corvettes giving back some of the pricing gains earned over the last couple of years, this could be a real buying opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts should the right Corvette present itself.

The following are highlights from our 2009 Corvette Price Guide:

1953-1962:
The first generation Corvettes had mixed results with some models showing a negative 5-7% depreciation factor, while on the plus side of the ledger appreciation results ranged for 2-9%. The high average price for this series was the 1953 Roadster at $294,500. At the low end of the price scale was the 1961 Roadster at an average price of $45,000, showing an appreciation factor of 2%. We expect the 1953 model to continue to show depreciation in average price with the majority of these solid axles showing positive results for the 2009 calendar year.

1963-1967:
The mid-years have regained the appreciation lead with all models showing an appreciation factor of 4-9%. The price leader in average price continues to be the 1967 Roadster at an average price of $61,000. The entry level price for the mid-years continues to be the 1964 Coupe at $35,000 in average price.

1968-1982:
The average price range for this generation of Corvettes starts at $9,200, the average price of a 1978 T- Top that showed no change in average price from last year. The average price for the series tops out at $29,500, the average price of the 1970 Roadster that showed an appreciation factor of 7%. The average price of the third generation Corvettes ranges from a depreciation factor of -8% to a +10% appreciation factor.

1984-1996:
There was quite a change last year in the average price for the fourth generation Corvette models. Our 2008 Price Guide showed many with single digit appreciation factors and a few in the double digit range. The 2009 Price Guide shows none in the appreciation column with two holding on as ‘no change’ in average price. Several are now showing double digit depreciation. The high average price for this series is $52,000, going to the 1996 Grand Sport Roadster. The low end is represented by the 1984 Coupe with an average price of $8,600 and a 1% depreciation factor. Hurting the average price of this series is the pricing of the C5 Corvettes with many selling under the $20,000 mark in average price.

1997-2004:
This series continues to show negative results in average price ranging from a -6% to -18%. The high average price for this series is $31,000, going to a 2003 Anniversary Roadster that showed a –9% depreciation factor. As we have said on numerous occasions, one buys a lot of Corvette power in this series for under $20,000. At some point soon, the double digit depreciation factors will improve to single digits.

2005-2009:
As expected, all models are showing double digit depreciation in average resale price. We don’t expect this to subside since average prices start at $31,500 for a 2005 Coupe and top out at $64,000 for the Ron Fellows Special Edition Z06. The state of the US economy will continue to have a major negative impact on the average price of these Corvettes.

Order the 2009 Corvette Price Guide

The 2009 Corvette Price Guide covers all Corvette years and body styles with high, low and average prices for each Corvette model. Another important feature of the Price Guide is the provisional one, two and five year appreciation factors for each Corvette.

In addition, the Corvette Price Guide provides the original base price and the number of units manufactured. To complete the content, included is information on motors, wheels, hard tops and factory air conditioning. Price is $15 and shipping is free!

Bob Kroupa of VETTE-N-VESTMENTS provided this analysis of 2008’s generational highlights. VETTE-N-VESTMENTS is the data provider for the annual guide and publisher of the monthly Corvette Market Letter.

Source:
VetteFinders.com
Data Provided by Vette-N-Vestments

Related:
Appreciating Corvettes: Top 10 Price Gainers of 2008
Depreciating Corvettes: Top 10 Price Declines of 2008
2009 Corvette Price Guide Released

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