I think we need to clarify something ...
The C3 in its late years was bogged down with smog. And there were more automatics built for sure as well, which is totally undesirable.
But in terms of balance and suspension, this is NOT a bad car at all. It has independent rear suspension and the engine sits behind the front wheels. It also has disk brakes all around from the factory. Having driven A body GM vs Corvette of the same year in stock form, the Corvette is quite respectable. Maybe not 911 respectable, but it is much better than a Chevelle for sure.
Like Byron posted, with the right updgrades, this thing can be fun in the turns for sure. My stock 71 Vette sure was. It had a pretty beefy 350 and rowing the gears, it was a hoot to drive.
G