34k Mile 1968 Chevrolet Corvette L79 4-Speed

Only a select group of cars feature styling that is so iconic that it is recognized globally. The original Volkswagen Beetle and Mini fall into that category, as does the C3 Corvette. Our feature car is from the first year of C3 production and is a two-owner classic with a genuine 34,000 miles on the clock. It has some minor needs, but the new owner could address most of them in a home workshop. Potential buyers could join the bidding battle on this ‘Vette, although some may choose to throw caution to the wind by hitting the “Buy It Now” button to guarantee they take it home.

Chevrolet’s C3 Corvette was a sales hit from the moment the first cars hit showrooms for the 1968 model year. The total of 28,566 ‘Vettes that found homes that year was a record, and the tally would grow throughout the 1970s. LeMans Blue was second only to British Green in the popularity stakes, with 4,722 buyers selecting that color. The seller is this car’s second owner, purchasing it from the widow of the first owner, who had been its custodian for over fifty years. It had led a sheltered life, but the seller felt it deserved a birthday treat. Therefore they performed a cosmetic refresh that included a repaint in the original color. The Corvette presents well as a high-end driver, with no issues or problems. The repaint involved stripping away areas of the factory LeMans Blue, revealing this is a no-hits body. The seller restored the Rally wheels, adding new center caps so they present in as-new condition. The glass and trim are in good order, and the headlamps operate as they should. However, the same can’t be said for the wiper door, which will go onto the winning bidder’s to-do list.

Chevrolet’s L79 engine was a popular choice in 1968, which is understandable. The entry-level 327ci V8 produced 300hp and 360 ft/lbs of torque, and when backed by a four-speed manual transmission, it allowed the car to cover the ¼-mile in 14.7 seconds on its way to 131mph. The L79 added a mere $105.35 to the sticker price but boosted power to 350hp. The results were immediately obvious, with the ¼-mile ET dropping to 14.2 seconds, and the top speed rising to an impressive 150mph. That was the combination chosen by this Corvette’s first owner, and the car retains its numbers-matching drivetrain. The seller replaced the master cylinder and brake calipers, adding a new exhaust, fuel tank, battery, and a host of suspension components. They suggest the brakes would benefit from an additional bleed to eliminate any possible air from the system, but that seems to be its only pressing need. Otherwise, it runs and drives extremely well.

I admire the seller because they are candid about this Corvette’s needs. They admit the carpet is well beyond its best, and the seatcovers are deteriorating markedly. However, there are no issues with the dash or pad, and the plastic looks acceptable for a driver-grade classic. I can’t spot any aftermarket additions, with the factory AM/FM radio occupying its rightful place. The parts required to lift the presentation are readily available, and fitting them would make an enormous difference.

The seller listed this 1968 Chevrolet Corvette here on eBay in Jasper, Georgia. The auction action has been quite subdued, with five bids pushing the price to $17,600. That figure falls short of the reserve, although there is a BIN option of $28,500 for those who find this car irresistible. The repaint means it technically isn’t a survivor, but the fact it is a numbers-matching vehicle with a known history and a low odometer reading may make it irresistible. Do you feel that way, and do you believe the BIN price is justified?