Hi,

Have a question. And possibly a stupid one. Would my 69 firebird convertible be worth more with the matching number 350 YE motor or would it be more desirable if I obtained a 400 motor for it, plus added bonnet and other 400 attributes, basically making it a non matching numbers clone? Thanks .

In the long run, probably numbers matching. Why not pull the 350 and keep it in case you change your mind?

If what you call bonnet is the boot cover, those came standard with all 'vert models. You would need to decide if you are willing to drill holes in the trunk lid though.

I think "bonnet" is the hood.
Keep it original!
If you do decide you want a 400, keep all the parts for the next owner. It will be worth a lot more.

I believe you asked two questions, is it worth more as a number macthing 350 or more desirable as a 400 clone.

I would believe the number matching 350 would be worth more, but the 400 clone would be more desirable.

But that is what the market here in the U.S. is, I see your in Australia and would think Firebirds are pretty rare

making the car desirable on it's own. It worth is what people are willing to pay, and you have a better idea

what the Austaliaen martet is looking for. And the " bonnet " is a 400 hood correct. just my $ .02

Learn something every day.

Guess I should change my other post then for the 400 bonnet in Ohio...

Australian key:

Bonnet = Hood
Boot = Trunk
Hood = Convertible top or Roof
Wing = Fender
Oily bits = anything under the bonnet
Near side = Driver's side
Far side = Passenger side

I only understand Polish myself...

A 69 TA convertible clone would be the best value and a broader market.
Very-very few people care about a "matching number" 350 Firebird.

Yes, good point! Us '67-'68 guys always forget about those!

Awesome fella's.thanks heaps for your replies. It is a beautiful car, all original and have the rally 2 rims.
Thing is car dealer tried a swifty on me. The car was sold to me as a 400. Has the bonnet and emblems etc.when I first inspected it on day of first seeing it, I went through it and soon saw it wasn't a 400 block.
He played dumb and said he didn't realise.yeah right! So I had a desicikn to make. Paperwork actually said YF but block was YE- a 350. The 400 69's were YW and YT I beiieve. N e way I should have offered lots less but I didn't I paid him way more than what a 350 would be worth. 36000 350's made, only approx 6000 335hp 400's made. Now as I said I will have to take a loss when I sell. I don't want to keep the lie going and try and pass off as 400 to next buyer unless has 400 motor. Not a good situation.or maybe ask him to buy it back off me for closer to what I paid.he laughed all the way to the bank on sale day. Any advice appreciated.thanks guys n gals?.

Get the PHS history of the car, then you'll know exactly what it is.
http://www.phs-online.com/

Get a Lawyer... (after you get the PHS)

Well buyer beware. If it's a fresh buy maybe get him to take it back if you feel you paid too much. If it's a done deal just enjoy the car as long as you want and wait for prices to go up till you will get your investment back.

Thanks 68.cheers bob.

Well, what is your interest in the car? If you bought it to flip, find a 400 engine and advertise it as a clone. If your interest is driving & enjoying, then I would drive & enjoy.
Cal

response to original question...it all depends on who your buyer is....if its a "regular" 350 , might not be worth more than a 400, but if its a 'reare" 350 version , with original options ,it may be worth more.