Listed here on eBay in Wethersfield, Connecticut (near Hartford) is this very nice 1961 Corvette, with both soft and hard tops. Better hurry—there are only two days left in the auction, with the bidding up to $46,000. Frankly, if I were selling a big-ticket car like this, I’d go all out on providing a detailed description with accompanying photography. Here, we have a paragraph, nice as it is, and just five not-very-revealing photos. It doesn’t matter though. This is an iconic 1961 Corvette, and there’d be big bidders even if the ad said “CurVet 4 Salle” with one grainy black-and-white photo.
The owner claims it’s all original and “in almost excellent” condition. Haven’t heard that formulation before. Recent work “a few years back” included a complete engine and transmission overhaul, along with new upholstery (including door panels). “It runs and drives as it did when new,” the owner says. “Just had brakes completely done and complete exhaust done…You can eat off this car, and it is mostly original paint. Never been in the rain or snow. Bought off the second owner, who owned it since 1972.” It certainly looks good.
Considering how most old Corvettes have been thoroughly molested, this seems an opportunity to one that’s been treated very gently. The mileage, presumably original, is 49,473. The 1961 Corvette is a transitional model, with a held-over nose but a four-taillight rear end that anticipated the modernized ‘63s.
The ad doesn’t say what motor is under the hood, or if it’s the original. This year was the last for the 283-cubic-inch engines in Corvettes. The base was a 230-horsepower version coupled with a three-speed manual. But there were plenty of variations (five), all the way up to 275 horses with twin four-barrels, or 315 hp with Ramjet fuel injection. Maybe the experts can tell us what we’ve got here.
There’s likely to be much more bidding on this car. Classic.com says the average price for a 1961 Corvette is $100,788. And this one has originality, plenty of recent work, and two tops going for it. Are you making a bid?
It is a 4 speed. This car was in much rougher condition at one point. Look at the steering column just behind the wheel. I like these, helped my Dad restore a 62 back in the early 90’s, same color combo.
It’s been repainted,and they put the side emblems on wrong.
Those red and blue bars above and below the CORVETTE side emblem?
They should be staggered, with the top bar forward of the bottom bar, the slanted front and back of those bars should make straight slanted imaginary line between the two, basically following the sweep angle of the rear of the front fenderwell.
Those bars are stacked vertical, typical rookie mistake.
Doug
Judging by the low red line shown on the tach it probably has the base 283. Nice ’61, I like it/
The aluminum intake and single carb tells me this engine may have other mods,too.
What a pretty car. Need anyone say more?
When you think of all the cars available of this caliber….all I need say is if you can afford it. Buy it. You won’t find nicer.
This is one of the most over-described and under-photographed cars on eBay. Well… except for the outright scams. “You can eat off this car and it is mostly original paint.” Sweet Baby Jeebus on a wee donkey!
Judging from the hood, side trim, and front bumper fits, it’s been hit hard and poorly repaired in the past.
No thanks. It’s only about $30,000 worth of parts in my opinion.