I am 63 years old and have had a passion for Vettes since first seeing the TV show Route 66. I have owned a 1971 LT1 coupe and 1965 327 roadster. The '71 was a blast while the '65 was a bust. But I digress.
My interest fell to indifference after the C3 series ended (no offence to C4, C5 and C6 owners). When the C7 arrived, I fell in love with the brand all over again. When I saw a velocity yellow Z51 up close at a Collingwood show and shine last May, the next week I ordered myself a 2015 coupe.
I still get some buyer's remorse because, with all taxes and extra warranties and fees and surcharges, the the total came to $87,300.47!!! Slapping down the credit card for the initial $1000.00 gets me in the Bowling Green queue was easy. Just $86,300.47 to go. Yikes! My first house didn't cost that much.
I am fortunate enough to have the remainder in cash to just buy outright. The long and short of it is I just don't care about the "investment". The depreciation will just not matter compared to the thrill of driving, not just a Corvette Stingray, but driving a brand spanking new Corvette Stingray. Mmmm, new car smell. There is nothing quite like new car smell.
Someone wise once said, do not buy things; buy experiences. A brand new Corvette Stingray is not a THING to me; it will be an experience. Driving it will be an experience. Polishing it will be an experience. Taking to car shows will be an experience. Going on Corvette cruizes will be an experience.
If buying yourself a Corvette means that by 2022 you will be eating Alpo or cannot pay the rent, then your choice is clear. Roof over head more important than 91 octane in fuel tank. However, if having KD and weiners or some other austerity meal affords you the amazing experience of a brand new Corvette Stingray, then run don't walk to your Chevy dealer and treat yourself to an experience not many will afford themselves.
My father never reached the age of 64. I am 63 - the same age as when my dad died. I refuse to allow myself to deny myself experiences for fear money may be tight later in life.
I totally agree. A Corvette Stingray is a bad investment; but it will be a once in a lifetime experience.
A great lady by the name of Admiral Grace Hopper of the U.S Navy once said "Ships in port are safe. But that is not what ships are for. Go out and experience new things." My father didn't; but I damn well will. If GM ever gets around to building the darn thing!!!!!!! Three months on order and still NO build date yet. Grrrr.
Just my $0.02
Doug in Collingwood