There is a lot to be said for survivor-grade classics. They have been driven and enjoyed as their creators intended and typically offer a relaxed driving experience. There are no fears that an errant stone might destroy perfection, but they command respect because they haven’t been squirreled away in garages to gather dust. Those characteristics perfectly describe this 1968 Corvette Convertible. It has no apparent needs, and its specifications guarantee brutal acceleration. The Corvette is listed here on eBay in Arrington, Tennessee. Bidding sits below the reserve at $20,100, but there is a BIN option of $79,950 for those who view it as an automotive “must-have.”

Chevrolet released the C3 Corvette for the 1968 model year. While many of its underpinnings were carried over from its predecessor, it featured a svelte new body that was instantly recognized across the globe. This Convertible is from the first production year and is 1-of-2,918 ordered in Rally Red. That shade accounted for around 10% of the entire production but fell short of the most popular color. That honor fell to Lemans Blue with a tally of 4,722. The overall presentation is comfortably acceptable for a survivor, with no significant flaws in the paint or panels. The White soft-top fits tightly, but the news below the surface will make potential buyers smile. The seller confirms this Corvette is structurally sound, with no rust in the frame or birdcage. The chrome and glass look spotless, and the car rolls on its correct Rally wheels.

Buyers could choose from six engines to power their 1968 Corvette, with this car’s original owner selecting the L36 version of the 427ci V8. They teamed this with a four-speed manual transmission. The big-block produces 390hp and 460 ft/lbs of torque. A ¼-mile ET of 13.8 seconds off the showroom floor proves this is a potent piece of equipment. The seller states that this drop-top is in excellent mechanical health. It runs and drives perfectly and has 44,000 miles on the clock. That last point isn’t an idle claim because the mileage is fully documented. The engine wears its correct original equipment, including the air cleaner, valve covers, and ignition shield. They admit that it is fitted with aftermarket headers that are period-correct. However, these could be replaced with factory manifolds for those craving authenticity.

The Corvette’s interior is tidy, and most buyers will consider it acceptable for a survivor. Hiding substandard trim on any Convertible is challenging, but the winning bidder won’t face that task with this classic. The Black vinyl is in good order, the carpet is excellent, and there are no issues with the dash or pad. The console is remarkably free from the worst of the scratches that often plague this item, and the plastic is crack-free. A retro-style stereo occupies the spot normally reserved for the factory radio, but there are no other additions.

This 1968 Corvette Convertible can hardly be considered affordable, especially if someone hits the BIN button on the listing. However, the figure isn’t unprecedented. Values have defied the odds by rising significantly in the past twelve months, and there is no sign that the trend will end soon. That means that an already expensive car could quickly climb beyond the reach of mere mortals. Therefore, if a big-block C3 Corvette has been on your Wish List, striking now might be wise. Do you agree?