It can sometimes be challenging to determine whether a classic is genuinely desirable, but this 1968 Corvette leaves no doubt. It is a tidy and solid driver with only a few minor needs. That makes it unsurprising that it has received twenty-one bids since the seller listed it here on eBay in Pittstown, New Jersey. However, that action has seen bidding sit below the reserve at $15,100. There is plenty of time remaining, meaning both the bid total and price are sure to rise before this auction ends.
Chevrolet released the C3 Corvette for the 1968 model year and probably had no idea of the impact it would have. Its styling radically differed from its predecessor and would become one of the most instantly recognizable classics globally. The company offered buyers ten paint shades, with our feature car 1-of-3,435 ordered in Silverstone Silver. That represents a take-up rate of around 12%, with only British Green and LeMans Blue proving more popular. It presents extremely well, with the seller describing the paint and fiberglass as perfect. The structural news is equally positive, with the slightly blurred underside shot suggesting the frame is rock-solid. The seller doesn’t mention any problems with it or the birdcage, but only an in-person inspection would confirm that all is well. The trim and glass are acceptable for a driver-grade vehicle, and the spotless Rally wheels are wrapped in new tires. There are a few functional issues for potential buyers to consider. A leak in the vacuum system means the headlamps and wiper door don’t function as they should, but this is a common occurrence where parts are readily available.
The seller admits this Corvette isn’t numbers-matching. The engine block for its 327ci V8 is date-coded for 1965, and the motor’s specifications are unclear. The air cleaner decal suggests it is the L79 version producing 350hp, but since anyone can buy and apply one of those stickers for under $10, I wouldn’t rely on its accuracy. The small-block sends its power to the road via a four-speed manual transmission, ensuring this classic provides an entertaining driving experience. There are a few mechanical shortcomings for the buyer to address, but none should consume much time or money. The parking brake adjustment is out, the rear exhaust pipes show wear, and the seller indicates the rear suspension would benefit from new bushes. Otherwise, it runs and drives well, the motor is strong, and the transmission shifts smoothly. The mentioned flaws are an irritant, but it appears that none require immediate attention if the new owner wants to hit the road to maximize the fun during the remaining summer months.
The Corvette’s interior continues the theme of impressive presentation. There are no signs of wear or abuse on any Black vinyl upholstered surfaces, with the dash and console looking spotless. The beautiful teakwood wheel is free from wear, and there is no apparent carpet fading. The original owner didn’t load it with factory options, meaning the winning bidder doesn’t receive items like air conditioning or power windows. The retro-style stereo is the only aftermarket addition, and the only functional faults are an inoperative temperature gauge and clock. That second item is unsurprising because it is a known weakness. The new owner could spend around $120 on a rebuild kit or throw caution to the wind by sourcing a replacement for about $200.
The photos and listing suggest this 1968 Corvette would suit an enthusiast seeking a spotless driver-grade classic. Its presentation is hard to fault, and its few shortcomings won’t cost a fortune to address. The bidding history confirms people like what they see, and I hardly blame them. The loss of the original motor is disappointing and will impact its potential value. However, history demonstrates that these highly-prized classics continue appreciating. That makes the right car a worthwhile investment at an appropriate price. A journey beyond $20,000 seems inevitable before the hammer falls, but what do you think the sale price will be?
Very nice car someone will be lucky to own it
FYI that’s not a teak wheel it’s a plastic simulated wood wheel
Those are Center bolt valve covers. Not original.
The teak wheels were available on the 1965 and 1966 Corvettes as an option for something around $48 or so. Nice appearing Corvette, but as mentioned, the first C2 had numerous teething issues, and many parts are not interchangeable with later cars.
I don’t think it’s a 327 motor
The ad says it is a 327 block, but the heads are clearly 87 and up.
Years ago I read in a Vette collector magazine the 68 model year was not a good collector year. Maybe being the first year had something to do with that I don’t know. So I don’t get that excited unless it’s a big block. Maybe someone can give an opinion on that for me. Thanks
I bought and sold Corvettes in the late 70’s the 68 model was a tuff sale because it was a first year run of a new body design. It had all kinds of body integrity issues. It was the least wanted Corvette at the time.
The engine sure looks like a GM / Chevrolet Performance 350 / 333 HP crate motor. Those “tin” valve covers with center bolts are a dead giveaway and are definitely not for a 327 nor is the air cleaner, as Carlos and Paul pointed out. I put one of those in my 1970 Chevy C-10 in 2007 so I recognized them immediately. Luckly, I took off those valve covers and air cleaner and replaced them with a better style.
Maybe the block is a 327 but NOT the heads!
Would love to have the car though!!
I actually have one of those HO engines myself. Actually pretty good engine
Regardless of the early teething problems by now they should all be done with. I’ll bet that whoever buys this car isn’t interested in matching numbers and just wants to go out and have a bunch of fun driving it. I know I would.
Yes it’s definitely a nice vette
At the current bid of 16.6K, this is a good buy, but 1K higher and you have to start wondering about it.
Glad that the seller mentions the work that is needed, but no excuse for no including more photos.
The emergency brakes on these cars do work if properly adjusted. I have owned two early C3s, still have my 73. One of the biggest problems is of course rust, from driving in bad weather, and not using the parking brake peridocially They do go out of adjustment, but when properly fixed and the shoes work, it will hold the car. Yes, the 68 had issues when new. Car and Driver slammed the car terribly in its review. One of the biggest issues is it has many one year only parts, doors, headlamp buckets, steering wheel, etc. But I really like the back up lamp design and it is the last year you could order off road, N11, exhaust from the factory. Nice sound, not ridiculous, like obnoxious N14. A close friend bought a red/red 327/350 hp 68 roadster in 1973 and daily drove it for many years to work. He sold it with about 285,000 miles. Yeah it needed some work, but still had the original drivetrain.