Joined: Mon Nov 16 2009, 04:01PM
Location: Lompoc, CA
Posts: 43
When I first got my car I didn't realize how rare the HP440 was in these. The 69 Polara 500 convertible is rare enough on its own at 573 units, factor in engines and who knows. What I do know is there is one in the Netherlands (69monaco on FCBO) and apparently one in Canada needing restoration.
I have only been around C-bodies about 12 years now and my focus was entirely on the CHP cars. For those that may know more about these do you know of others in any condition or seen listed somewhere?
What would a reasonable speculation on percentage of the original production have been? 5-10%, 30%?
Looks like the 318 was standard and the 383-2, 383-4 and the HP440 were optional.
I know it really doesn't matter but it is fun to think about.
Joined: Mon Oct 10 2005, 06:00PM
Location: 5000 ft above sea level
Posts: 1521
There is a fellow in Nebraska. He has the only EV2 70 Polara convertible built and a Rose Bowl car both 440s. He has two 69 Polara 440 HP convertibles. I'm certain they are both 500s but I could be wrong. I haven't heard from Mike in a while. A few years in fact. I don't think you could get the standard 440 in the 69 500, could you?
Joined: Mon Nov 16 2009, 04:01PM
Location: Lompoc, CA
Posts: 43
The car is a very solid and complete car, very original. It had been repainted a couple times along with some questionable repairs. It is almost a rust free car, three silver dollar size holes on the front passenger floor, playing card size hole below the wiper motor and the dutch man panel (badly repaired).
The car has been repainted and is going back together. For the most part it is a total restoration. That will not stop me from driving it almost like a daily driver.
The front sheet metal should be going back on tomorrow.