Many enthusiasts prefer to park a driver-grade classic in their garage rather than opting for a pristine example. That is understandable because those cars offer a more relaxed ownership experience. The occasional chip of mark is unlikely to cause the same level of anguish than if it marred perfection. This 1957 Corvette fits that mold, and while it isn’t totally original, its overall condition would still turn heads. The time is right for it to find a new home, with the seller listing the Corvette here on eBay in Lambertville, New Jersey. Bidding has raced to $48,100, although that figure falls short of the reserve.

The 1957 model year was an evolutionary one for the Corvette. The car received no cosmetic updates, with the changes hidden below the surface. Chevrolet offered buyers the choice of seven single-tone paint shades and the same number of two-tone combinations. The most popular was Cascade Green and Ivory, selected by 319 owners. That is what graces this classic’s panels, and its presentation is impressive for what the seller describes as a driver-grade vehicle. There are no significant flaws or imperfections, with the fiberglass continuing that trend. It is unclear whether the Corvette has undergone any restoration work, but the deep shine and minor evidence of possible trim masking suggest it has. There is no mention of hidden rust problems, and the car comes with the factory hardtop and frame for the soft-top. The trim and glass are excellent, with the original steel wheels featuring their factory hubcaps and whitewall tires.

The most significant change to this Corvette is revealed when we tip the hood forward. The exterior badges suggest it rolled off the line equipped with a 283ci “Fuelie” V8. However, that motor is a distant memory, with the Corvette powered by a later 327ci powerplant equipped with a  dual-quad setup. The seller provides no information on the engine’s specifications, indicating its power feeds to the road via a four-speed manual transmission. They mention an odometer reading of 62,500 genuine miles, but I am never sure how relevant that is when a classic has lost some of its more significant mechanical components. The engine bay presents superbly and is one of this car’s highlights. There are no signs of long-term fluid leaks or other issues. There are no indications of how it runs or drives, although the appearance suggests the news should be positive.

The Cascade Green and Ivory theme continues inside this Corvette, and there is little to criticize about its condition. The upholstered surfaces look crisp and clean, with no wear or physical damage. The paint shines nicely, and the gauges feature clear lenses and markings. The only sign of aging is developing cracks on the wheel. Sourcing a replacement shouldn’t be challenging, although fitting a wrap would protect the wheel from further deterioration for those on a tight budget.

The lack of originality hasn’t lessened buyer interest in this 1957 Corvette. The seller opened their auction at $1,000, and it took under two days for the bidding to reach its current level. It is unlikely to threaten the six-figure sum a seller might expect for an original Fuelie, but I see no reason why it couldn’t reach $60,000 before the hammer falls. Do you agree, or do you have a different figure in mind?