40k Original Miles: 1964 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible

The original owner of this 1964 Corvette had one eye focused on performance but decided that touches of comfort wouldn’t go astray when completing the Order Form for this beauty. They equipped the car with some of the rarer optional extras that serve to increase its desirability in the current market. Adding to its attraction is its status as a two-owner vehicle with 40,000 genuine miles on the clock. Located in Alexandria, Alabama, the seller has listed it for sale here on eBay. Frantic bidding has pushed the price to $50,100 in a No Reserve auction.

Out of a production total of 22,229 cars during the 1964 model year, 3,121 buyers, or 14%, elected to order their new Corvette wearing attractive Silver Blue paint. That doesn’t make it the rarest shade, with that honor falling to Saddle Tan with a figure of 1,765 cars. The seller doesn’t indicate whether the ‘Vette has undergone any form of restoration, but its paint holds an impressive shine. It cloaks panels that are free from any significant defects or cracks. The original White soft-top is in good condition for its age. It is wrinkled, but time in the raised position will probably fix that. A life spent in California has helped this classic to remain rust-free. The underside shots reveal a frame that looks structurally sound, with little more than the occasional spot of surface corrosion. The chrome looks excellent for its age, as does the glass. The Corvette rolls on a set of aluminum knock-off wheels, and since these don’t rate a specific mention in the listing among the list of optional extras, I feel that they are probably reproductions. Still, they suit the car’s character perfectly.

Once you’ve assessed the rest of this Corvette’s condition, the engine bay presentation is slightly disappointing. Maybe I’m being harsh in my judgment, but I expected better from a low-mileage classic like this. Leaving that aside for a moment, we reveal why I believe the original owner was compromising between performance and comfort when they ordered this classic. The engine bay houses the L75 version of the mighty 327ci V8 that produces 300hp. Selecting this motor added a mere $53.80 to the Corvette’s base sticker price of $4,037, making it easy to understand why 47% of Corvette buyers ticked that box. The power from that small-block feeds to the rear wheels via a two-speed Powerglide transmission, while power steering and power brakes round out the mechanical package. Interestingly, only 11% of buyers opted for the automatic transmission, 14% added power steering, and 10% chose power brakes. While these options allow for a more relaxed driving experience and increases its rarity, the Corvette should still be capable of covering the ¼ mile in 15.3 seconds. The seller indicates that the car runs and drives well and has a genuine 40,000 miles on the clock. They don’t mention supporting evidence, but it may be contained in the included collection of documentation. The buyer will receive the original Owner’s Manual, Window Sticker, NCRS paperwork, and a photo of this classic with its original owner.

The positive vibes continue when we examine this Corvette’s interior. Once again, the original owner had an eye on luxury touches when selecting an interior trimmed in Dark Blue leather. Only 6% of buyers chose leather, but the color breakdown is unclear. It presents superbly, with no genuine issues or problems. The upholstered surfaces look excellent, as does the carpet. There is no wear on the wheel, and the dash appears perfect. The original owner ordered this classic with the optional AM/FM radio, providing entertainment if the buyer becomes bored with the tune sung by the small-block under the hood.

There’s no questioning the desirability of C2 Corvettes. Even though this car features the Powerglide transmission that hinders its outright performance, I am not alone in my belief that many enthusiasts would be happy to find this gem parked in their garage. It has already attracted fifty-five bids from thirteen potential buyers, indicating that a few are pretty determined to add the Corvette to their collection. I won’t be surprised if it hits $60,000 before the auction ends because its overall condition would justify that figure. That means that it can not be classed as an affordable classic. Even if you find it beyond your means, there’s nothing wrong with watching an auction like this and dreaming.