In the past I've collected/restored corvettes where matching #'s was extremely important to the value of the car. I'm new to 442's and I'm looking for feedback regarding the value of matching # engine pad stamp for the 442's. I'd appreciate any opinions, particularly if the value of a matching # engine is less important on a highly optioned car with an attractive color combination. I thought this forum would be a good place to get a feel for this.

Thanks....

 

ANY car with a matching #'s drivetrain will be worth
signifantly more than to not have it. Just my 2 cents.

 

its no different than corvettes...un-orig motor kills the value..

 

I think it depends, I wouldn't say it "kills" the value but certainly diminishes it. The rarer the car the more it affects it. Also with 1970 442s (68 - 71) you know by the VIN that the car is a 442 and its not like the 442 had many different engine options like a Charger (318, 383, 426, 440 etc. ) Some of the rarest COPO Chevelles have had their original engine blown and have replacement blocks and those cars still go for nutty prices.

I'd prefer a matching number and my car is but it wouldn't exclude me from buying a non matching motor car.

 

it always helps to have the original engine. if you at least have the original transmission and all the correct parts on another engine block it isn't as bad another complete 455 engine from another year car.

 

Any thoughts on what a service replacement motor does to the value? The original owner blew the first motor up drag racing. Since he had 4:33's installed, which were not intended for street use, he argued that he was doing nothing wrong by racing it. Olds replaced the motor under protest. Everything else on the motor is correct with the exception of the VIN pad. It reads LIST 2649.

This info was confirmed by the dealership mechanic, who collects W cars. And for whatever reason, as of 15 years ago, still had the well ventilated block from my car in his possession.

 

No argument that matching numbers count on a real 442, overall condition being equal. A well done swap likely helps the value of a Cutlass S or F85, especially if it started life with a 2bbl and jetaway. "Tributes/Clones" and 1972's vary depending on level of execution from a big minus to a big plus.

 

A car is only worth what someone is going to pay for it. Of course it will raise the value, but then again... you might find someone who will pay top dollar for a clone/tribute just because its exactly what they want.

 

344870M, I would like to see pics of your twilight blue w30 with the black. I have a 70 442 twilight blue with white stripes, white vinyl top and parchment interior. Thanks and look forward to your pics if possible.

 

You have the paperwork to prove its a W30 that's more than most folks can say so your replacement engine isn't that much of a killer. Of course the original motor is better but not much as yours is a factory replacement engine and you have docs - of course this is just my opinion.

 

With the documentation, it won't affect it much. The 4:33's on the other hand will!

 

I disagree. Replacement or not it is no longer a matching numbers car and the value will reflect that. Would I buy a W-30 with a replacement engine? Yes. Would I pay anywhere near matching numbers price for it? Nope.