C3 rear window louvres – anyone interested in a remake?

[ClassicPrintWorks]

Hi all,

I’m new here, based in France. I design and 3D print replacement parts for classic cars, and I’m currently working on louvres for a 1970 Capri Mk1.

While researching, I noticed that the 70s-style rear window louvres for the C3 (68–77, between the sugar scoops) seem very hard to find now. I’d like to try remaking a set.

A few questions before I start:

Would any C3 owners here be interested?
Does anyone have a set (or photos with measurements) I could use as a reference for the fit?
Would you prefer them removable (clipped or bolted) or bonded to the glass?

They would be printed in black ABS+ (UV and heat resistant). No price yet: I want to get the fit right first, and I’ll share photos of the prototype.

Thanks,

 

[Nassau65]

Found this picture of the rear louvers for a 68-77 coupe that fits between the buttresses.
To my eyes it’s a no no. I must admit I’ve never ever seen one fitted.

 

[Nassau65]

Later ones for the 78-82 however were better looking and I’ve seen plenty fitted.

 

[Nassau65]

Here’s a old add from Ecklers

The centre 68-77 picture looks best to me

 

[Roscobbc]

I'd be very surprised if C3 owners would go for these - IMHO only the small one that fits against the rear window stands any chance of interest (but not me, sorry)

 

[Nassau65]

I'd be very surprised if C3 owners would go for these - IMHO only the small one that fits against the rear window stands any chance of interest (but not me, sorry)

Seen many over the years on 78-82 models. Some designs are better than others. I don’t like the 3-piece versions, but the large single one is OK, and very of that period.
Collected one for. 3rd generation Camaro from Heathrow airport once, never seen a box that big. I thought it would go in a caprice estate but it didn’t. Strapped it on the roof, and went home at a snails pace.

 

[Chevrolet]

Look awful on a C3, but good on a C7?

 

[antijam]

Interesting idea.....



......where exactly do they go...?

 

[Nassau65]

Love the original
Where it all started.

 

[Nassau65]

Remembering the 70’s on the current shape Dodge Challengers. Also available on current shape chargers

 

[Chuffer]

Always liked them on a Boss Mustang but they make a 78 - 82 C3 Corvette look like an armadillo IMO . Just aweful !!

 

[Nassau65]

The aftermarket accessories guys are very quick to get on the band wagon once something proves popular. Rear louvers were very popular during the 70’s and to most people’s eyes “looked the part”
Personally had and fitted many to different cars over the years from capri’s to Camaro’s. At the time of fitting they were all the rage. Nowadays?? Only on certain cars I suppose.
Agree with you Mr Chuffer that now on a 78-82 corvette they look too big and bulbous, but back then I liked them.
I advertised one for a GM F body a few years ago and was surprised how much interest I got in it. I must admit I thought it was something for the dump. It sold straight away

 

[teamzr1]

My 1989 C4 RacnVet having to deal with the brutal Texas Sun's heat & high UV where get inside, and the steering wheel burns your hands and cabin temps 130 F plus so those louvres helped reduce internal temps of an all black Corvette

 

[Nassau65]

That’s why white is a very popular colour in the southern “sunbelt” states.

 

[Roscobbc]

Kinda works with 71-73 'Breadvan' Mustangs

 

[Nassau65]

Looks great to me, I’d put one on any 71-73 fastback. But then I like louvers.