Driver-Grade Survivor: 1968 Chevrolet Corvette

I am probably not alone in believing that the C3 Corvette is best photographed from a low angle. Doing so accentuates the sleek and aggressive lines that help these classics to stand out in any crowd. These cars are bold and brash, an impression that is emphasized by the paint shade gracing this 1968 Corvette’s exterior. It is an extremely tidy driver-grade vehicle that appears to need nothing but a new home. If a C3 has been on your Wish List, this ‘Vette deserves a close look.

Very few cars receive global recognition based purely on their styling. The original Mini and Volkswagen Beetle are both members of that group, and we can add the C3 Corvette to the list. It came to represent all that was great about the American automobile manufacturing industry, with sleek styling that was complimented by exceptional performance. This 1968 example adds to that impression, courtesy of its dazzling Safari Yellow paint. The seller’s emphasis on originality suggests it has never undergone any form of cosmetic restoration, although only an in-person inspection would reveal the truth. One item worth noting is the hood, which is a big-block item. I am happy to be corrected if I’m wrong, but it doesn’t show as a stand-alone item on the Options List that I have, and I believe it was only fitted to cars with an appropriate V8 occupying the engine bay. That suggests that this classic may have received some attention from a shop if the hood is, as I suspect, a later addition. There is little to criticize about its appearance because there are no significant paint flaws or evidence of cracking fiberglass. The news is equally positive below the surface, with the seller indicating that the frame and birdcage are rock-solid. The chrome and glass are excellent, as are the Rally wheels, center caps, and trim rings.

This Corvette continues its positive impression when we focus on its interior. The Black vinyl trim is in good condition, with no evidence of wear or distress. The matching carpet has avoided fading which is often seen with age, and the plastic and console are in good order. The factory radio has made way for a radio/cassette player, which appears to be the only aftermarket addition. Overall, the interior is comfortably acceptable for any buyer seeking a high-end driver.

Tilting this Corvette’s hood forward reveals a 327ci V8 that sends 300hp and 360 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed automatic transmission. The first owner’s decision to equip this classic with power-assisted steering and brakes should make driving an effortless experience. This engine and transmission combination makes this the least potent version of the Corvette offered in 1968, but with the ability to cover the ¼-mile in 15 seconds on its way to 140mph, this is no automotive slug. The seller has been this car’s custodian for over five years, mainly using it for shows. However, it runs and drives perfectly, making it a turnkey proposition for the new owner.

The only thing that surprises me about this 1968 Corvette is the subdued auction action. This classic has only received two bids since the seller listed it here on eBay in Fenton, Michigan. This has pushed the price to $18,000, which is below the reserve. Even the Watch List total of twenty-three is lower than I would typically expect for a chrome-bumper ‘Vette. Perhaps some people are biding their time, deciding whether to bid or if hitting the button on the BIN figure of $23,000 is more appropriate. Only time will tell.