We recently came across this video by a young chap named Hoovie’s Garage on YouTube titled, “Here’s Why the 1969 Corvette is Better than the New Stingray.” The video caught our eye for several reasons. Firstly, it’s Corvette! The fact that it is based around the stylistic flair of the early C3 Corvette just draws us in that much more. You’ll quickly note that the car in question is not factory original, which doesn’t detract from our viewing pleasure in the least. Sure, it’s non-factory paint and aftermarket wheels won’t win any NCRS credits, but we still like it.

Another factor of note, is that the gentleman narrating the video is not your stereotypical Corvette owner (if you buy into the stereotype stuff). He’s a younger-ish type, and instead of spouting off about what all is wrong with cars, he’s apparently quite the fan of the C3-era Corvette. We’re glad to see that not only are the non-late-model Corvettes popular, but that they strike a chord with a younger market. That’s good for the future of the hobby.

Of course, there’s some engine-revving and a chance to highlight the true pop-up headlamps of the C3 Corvette that is so revered by the Corvette faithful.

Beyond simply liking them, “Hoovie”, as we’ll call him, is actually quite fluent in explaining why he feels such a liking for the early Sharks. Of course, there is the styling. Undoubtedly, there is no other generation of Corvette that stands out among the crowd as the C3 generation. That long, swooping hood and goal-post like fender swells immediately identify this car as a third-gen Corvette.

This thing could have a 10-second 0-60, and it’d STILL be cooler than a new Corvette!

But, beyond that, Hoovie begins to attest to the “visceral feel” of the early cars, and how the additional input via steering, seat and surroundings immerse the passenger(s) in a feeling of speed, even when not speeding. Just when you thought smooth but dull-riding suspensions and electronic gizmos were all the rage, this video restores our hope in a generation that can appreciate life without all the add-ons designed to save us from ourselves.

All in all, the video does give a well-rounded view of the car and Hoovie’s friend, who lent him the car, even lets him get on it a few times so you can hear the vintage power through the exhaust. While we appreciate a self-shifting transmission, we definitely wouldn’t poo-poo the car because it’s a manual either! Likewise, as Hoovie describes it, “the car has— patina!” Which is a nice way of saying it’s worn. We don’t care; there’s something about sliding into an interior with some experience in keeping its occupants cozy.

Hoovie goes on to explain why the C3 Corvette avoided the trappings that hinder the modern generation Corvettes. He says, “Journalists used to blast the Corvette for being goofy and primitive. They were generally harsh on cars that take any sort of styling risk— too bad that General Motors listened to them.”

He goes on to explain his view on why he feels the C3 will remain iconic while newer-gen cars run the risk of their futures finding them as simply old, used cars. He states that new Corvettes aren’t as good as the C3 at “capturing the hearts of a generation”, and later generations “just start blending in”. He’s honest in his evaluation of today’s horsepower and fuel mileage benefits, but adds, “This thing could have a 10-second 0-60, and it’d STILL be cooler than a new Corvette!” We’d say it all depends on what you’re looking for in your perfect Corvette.

Hoovie doesn’t go into much detail of the engine on this particular car, but he does allow us to hear that throaty exhaust a few times.

Take a few minutes and view the video and then let us know what you think, of both the video, and his assertation of the C3 generation. Of course, the car he’s talking about is a ’69, with chrome bumpers and all. But, does the same go for the entire third generation of Corvettes? We actually like the early-80s versions as well, but ALL are Corvettes! Let us know your thoughts, and no matter what generation Corvette you might encounter along the highway, don’t forget to wave!