The 1962 model year marked the end of the line for Chevrolet’s C1 Corvette. After coming perilously close to oblivion during the 1950s, the C1 went out in a blaze of glory, setting a new sales record in its final year. This ’62 is a solid and clean driver but isn’t original. The numbers-matching V8 is long gone, with the engine bay housing a 350ci small-block. It needs a new home and is ideal for someone less worried about authenticity than a rewarding ownership experience.
The history of this Corvette is unclear, although the seller describes it as an older restoration. They don’t indicate whether the Tuxedo Black paint cloaking its exterior is original, but with other aspects of this classic changed, the same may be true of the paint shade. It isn’t perfect, although the presentation is acceptable for a driver-grade vehicle. The paint exhibits swirls that often develop with age, but careful work with a high-quality polish may eliminate those. The fiberglass is in good order, and the Black soft-top fits as tight as a drum. The seller supplies several underside shots, revealing a rock-solid frame. The chrome and glass look impressive for their age, and the Corvette rolls on its correct steel wheels with narrow whitewalls and hubcaps.
The 1962 model year saw the introduction of the 327ci V8 to the Corvette range, and buyers could choose from four versions to power their new purchase. It is unclear which this car’s first owner selected, but that is now irrelevant. It is long gone, with its rightful place occupied by a 350ci powerplant. The seller supplies no information on its specifications, leaving us flying blind. I would speculate that the driver will have at least 300hp at their disposal, although a higher figure is feasible. Its power feeds to the road via a four-speed manual transmission, and if my estimate is close to reality, a ¼-mile ET of 14.6 seconds beckons. This ‘Vette might not be original, but it is a turnkey classic that the seller describes as fun to drive. I find that claim easily believable, and there is no reason why the new owner can’t enjoy this classic during the remaining warm summer months.
The only aspect of this Corvette’s presentation that disappoints me is its interior. It isn’t battered or neglected, but the seatcover fit has an almost amateur look about it. That is a shame because there is little else deserving criticism. However, it isn’t a disaster because some careful stretching and new hog rings might eliminate the problem for a few dollars. Otherwise, it appears to have no cosmetic needs. The seller confirms that the air conditioning doesn’t blow cold, but that is the only functional shortcoming.
The seller listed this 1962 Corvette here on eBay in Lafayette, Indiana. The lack of originality hasn’t quelled interest from potential buyers, with twenty-five bids pushing the price to $44,000. That figure is below the reserve, but there is time for the situation to change. Placing a potential price on a vehicle of this type is challenging due to the modifications. However, it could potentially nudge $50,000 before the hammer falls. Would you pay that price, or do you have a lower figure in mind?
With a car this nice originality means nothing. A car to enjoy, not just sit and look at. If upholstery and a new top (notice the gap at the rear of the top) are all it needs it’s certainly going to be big money to buy but would be worth it.
Speculation on the horse power. You have no idea what it is
It has a lot of potential, Adam.
It needs a 1962 327 replacement engine instead of the 350 to be right. It would be worth the 50k asking price or more.
There is some paint flaking off of the steering wheel which might indicate a red interior at one time. And no hardtop listed indicated or shown. Hardtops command bigger money when included in a sale. The seats may tolerate refoaming if the vinyl is pliable enough to stretch. Also the Vin number may reveal the factory colors.