If performance trumps originality in your mind when choosing a classic to park in your garage, perhaps this 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible is the car of your dreams. It presents well, with no rust issues or other structural shortcomings. However, the 454ci V8 isn’t original, but promises mindblowing performance. The buyer receives a documented history for this turnkey brute, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Corvette listed here on eBay in Cape Coral, Florida. The seller set their BIN at $56,000 with the option to make an offer.

C2 Corvette sales were gaining strength following the 1963 unveiling. The 1965 model year produced another sales record, with 23,562 buyers handing over the cash to drive one home. That tally included 15,376 Convertibles, almost double the Coupe tally. This ’65 Convertible looks attractive in Rally Red with a contrasting White soft-top. The paint shines nicely, and with no visible fiberglass issues, it ticks the box as a tidy driver-grade classic. The seller confirms that there are no frame or birdcage problems, but affirms that close inspection will reveal that the bumpers show their age. The remaining trim is in good condition, and the Cragar-style wheels are the first indication that this Convertible is anything but average.

One of the most profound changes to the Corvette for 1965 was the introduction of a big-block engine option. It proved exceptional value for money, sounding the death knell for the iconic 327ci Fuelie. The indications are that this Corvette may have originally featured a 396, but that motor is long gone. The engine bay now houses a 1971-vintage four-bolt 454ci V8. It is equipped with a steel crank, forged pistons, a mild solid-lifter cam, “snowflake” aluminum cylinder heads, a dual-plane intake, and a 750cfm carburetor. The factory big-block placed 425hp at the driver’s disposal. It would be fair to expect this 454 to deliver more. A four-speed Muncie manual transmission handles shifting, and the seller believes the rear end was recently rebuilt. The deal includes an extensive collection of receipts and invoices for parts and labor, confirming what hides beneath this Corvette’s skin. It appears that potential buyers can immediately slip behind the wheel for a rapid motoring experience.

Piecing together the supplied images confirms that this Corvette’s interior presents well for a driver-grade classic. Trimmed in Black, there is no significant wear or signs of abuse. The gauge cluster contains the correct elements for a big-block ‘Vette, and the dash is in excellent condition. It appears to feature an aftermarket radio, which is unsurprising given the changes made elsewhere. The interior has no apparent needs and should remain presentable for decades in its current form if treated respectfully.

I’ve previously discussed modified classics and how placing a value on such vehicles is almost impossible. They write their own rules, and this 1965 Corvette Convertible is no exception. However, if the listing statistics are an accurate guide, this potent drop-top has generated plenty of interest. It is hard to say whether that will translate into sales success, but I won’t be surprised if it does. After all, it would certainly demand respect once people discovered what was hiding under the hood.