Some cars tell a story better than others. And, when the car in question has some interesting anecdotes in its history file, understanding the intentions of the previous owner can help form a colorful picture of its past. This 1967 Chevrolet Corvette convertible left the factory loaded with options, and was previously owned by a well-known Bloomington Gold judge and Corvette collector named Vernie Thomas. Equipped with a 4-speed manual, a 427ci V8, Positraction, and air conditioning, it is an incredible example of a C2 Corvette. It’s listed here on Hemmings.com for $135,000.
This Corvette presents a quandary, but one that can be resolved looking through the robust digital history file the seller included when it previously hit Bring A Trailer. In that file, you see half a lifetime of records, photos, correspondence, and awards that Vernie Thomas collected while it was in his care. It was clear that the Corvette was a source of pride for him, and he oversaw various levels of reconditioning to both improve upon it while preserving its originality. As a Bloomington Gold judge, originality carried particular importance to him, and it showed in the detailed letters he exchanged with the eventual next owners of his car.
Of course, when it comes to old muscle cars, there’s always the chance that things get changed before it becomes particular valuable. Obviously, this was always a special Corvette, but there wasn’t necessarily as much obsession over originality as there is now. The Corvette doesn’t wear the same color as its trim tag indicates, as it left the factory wearing Goodwood Green paint. In addition, the block was restamped when it was decked during a rebuild in 2000, which does lead to some ongoing questions about originality; however, in the same history file referenced above, you can see that the original casting date on the motor is I76 which works out to be September 7, 1966. The car was assembled Friday, September 23, 1966, showing it to be a date-correct motor.
The interior remains in excellent condition with a beautiful dashboard and teak steering wheel. The 4-speed manual puts this Corvette over the top for me, along with the robust history behind it which – for my money, any way – absolves it of some of the details that show various departures from being completely as-delivered from the factory. I’ve always said you’re buying the owner, not the car, and while Mr. Vernie Thomas may have since passed away, I still feel confident that a Corvette like this is the kind of specimen a Bloomington Gold judge would be proud to drive every day. The selling dealer is asking $135,000.
That day when you realize that classic car ads are more of an obituary.