Is a '68 L-79 327ci 350hp worth anything?

I bought my '68 numbers matching vette last Oct. with 76,037 miles.  The car is stock and I plan to keep it that way through next fall.  I'm struggling with keeping it stock or starting to modernize it. I know the numbers matching ramifications of modernizing my care and that is part of the struggle.  I just love the '68, but would love to have updated brakes and engine.

 First thoughts is nothing special just a GM crate 350 for reliability and economy and I was wondering if my L-79 would be worth anything and how to market it.

Well, personally Rick, I would keep your 68 just as it is.  You have a great looking car and it does have 350hp, how much more do you want?  I know it only has 76,000 miles, but if it needs rebuilding, I'd do that.  If you do decide to put in a crate motor, I would keep the 327 as that would be something a new owner would want if you ever decide to sell it.  Good luck. Larry

  Gotta agree.  That advice is as good as it gets.

If I had an L-79 I wouldn't change it a bit - just for the sound!  (Love the sound of that motor, I've even searched on YouTube for them just to listen).  And if I had to rebuild I'd do it stock as much as possible.  (repro L-79 cams are available).  Now, regarding my '76, I don't mind changing a few things up from the way GM originally put it together.   

Rebuild what you have. Make sure they do not grind the numbers with the redecking of the block. Put a new cam in it ... maybe bore it .030 over and put bigger pistons in it ... lots of options to keep you numbers matching which will absolutely make your value greater than a NOM crate motor.       

I had a 327, 350 hp motor in the 67 Camaro I restored.  That engine was a blast.  plenty of get up and go and a top end that didn't want to quit.  If I was a jerk(keep it quiet you folks in the peanut gallery) I'd tell you the engine was worthless and buy it from you.  That was my favorite engine I ever had in a car.

I've got the L76, 327, 365 hp engine in my '64 and I absolutely love it!

If I were you, I would keep the L79 and simply upgrade it like most folks seem to be suggesting.

OK guys thanks for your feedback on the L-79. 

 'Is a '68 L-79 327ci 350hp worth anything?'

Naw....it ain't worth nuthin. I'd get rid of it if I were you. I'd be happy to help ya find a new home for it here in Texas......




I'd have to agree with the others here....keep that puppy, whether you swap in a different engine or not....keep the original with the car.

Thanks, should I swap it and my wife says the engine is taking up to much room and has to go, ...........I'll get a new wife!!!     Nah! couldn't find a better one (I have 2 corvettes).