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Genuine Survivor: 1962 Chevrolet Corvette

When the previous owner placed it into storage in 1980, C1 Corvettes like this 1962 model were not particularly valuable. Today, they are highly sought, especially if they are original and unmolested. That is the case with this beauty, and although it isn’t perfect, it is a car guaranteed to receive appreciative comments due to its survivor status. It needs a new home, so it is listed here on eBay in Lakewood, New Jersey. The owner set their BIN at $74,900, leaving the option for interested parties to submit an offer.

The 1962 model year was the last for the C1 Corvette, and our feature car from that year is remarkably well preserved. It recently emerged from storage, a spot it had occupied since 1980. The environment must have been virtually ideal because the ‘Vette hasn’t suffered unduly. Its Ermine White paint isn’t perfect, but it holds up well for a vehicle of this vintage. It has marks, chips, and imperfection, but they are part of the inherent character of many survivor-grade classics. Regardless of the flaws, it still shines nicely. The fiberglass is free from cracks or obvious repairs, but this classic’s underside could be the highlight. The frame carries a light dusting of surface corrosion, but it is rock-solid and shows no evidence of structural weakness. The original owner ordered this gem with a Black soft-top, although there are no photos confirming its condition. A factory hardtop is part of the deal, and its condition is as impressive as the rest of the exterior. The chrome and trim look excellent, and there are no issues with the glass. To provide further insight, the seller supplies this YouTube video. It provides an excellent walk-around, allowing potential buyers to appreciate all this ‘Vette offers.

If a buyer in 1962 ordered their new Corvette wearing Ermine White paint, they could select an interior trimmed in Red, Fawn, or Black. This classic features the last shade, and its presentation is as impressive as the exterior. The seats are free from wear and damage, with the same true of the remaining upholstered surfaces. There is stretching on the seat bases, but this is expected after sixty years. The carpet is slightly faded, but the lack of wear or damage would prompt me to leave it untouched. The dash looks flawless, and there are no aftermarket additions. The company didn’t offer many comfort options for the Corvette’s interior at this time, but the original owner equipped this one with a factory AM radio.

The 1962 model year marked an increase in the Corvette’s V8 engine capacity from 283ci to 327ci. That also brought power increases across the board, with the entry-level motor rising from 230hp to 250hp. That’s what we find hiding under this classic’s hood, while the original owner added the optional four-speed manual transmission and a 3.36 Posi rear end. After initially underwhelming potential buyers during the early years, the 1962 Corvette offered performance more in keeping with its character. If the driver pointed this classic at a ¼-mile, the journey would become a memory in 15.3 seconds. This classic is numbers-matching, but it has a further claim to fame. It is 1-of-2,934 vehicles ordered with the optional Direct Flow Exhaust System. That represents a take-up rate of around 20%, adding to this classic’s rarity and desirability. The seller rescued this Corvette from storage, working through the revival process after more than four decades in hibernation. It was worth the effort because this survivor runs and drives perfectly. It needs nothing beyond a new owner to slip behind the wheel and revel in the classic car ownership experience.

Chevrolet produced 14,531 examples of the Corvette in 1962, marking it as the badge’s most successful year. That is impressive, considering buyers knew a new model was waiting in the wings for 1963. Placing a value on a vehicle like this can be challenging because it isn’t pristine. If it were, it would undoubtedly command a price in six-figure territory. However, as an original and unmolested genuine survivor, I find it more desirable than a perfect car. It wears its survivor tag with pride, and true enthusiasts will appreciate its story and all it offers. That’s why I think the BIN figure looks competitive and why I believe it won’t take long for this classic to find a new home.

Comments

  1. Avatar Michael Garner

    And it’s gone. that was fast. Nice looking C-1. We have a C-4 Convertible, and like it, but oh to have a first generation….

    Like 4
  2. Avatar BuickNut

    Every time I see a ’62 ‘Vette, Im reminded of the time way back in 1968 when a buddy of mine offered me his ’62 for $900.00. My mom was recovering from tuberculosis at the time and when I drove it out to the convalescent home she was in, she took one look at it and said “all I see is you and your brother dead in that car”. Needless to say, I didn’t buy it. She probably was right but, I stoll think of what I passed up.

    Like 5
  3. Avatar Ike

    In 1968 Dad and I split the cost of a 62 Hondouras Maroon Vette; $1300. The previous owner had dropped in a new engine; 327 stroked and bored to 375 HP with a 4:11 posi. Left for school after the Summer; Dad said your grades go down; Vettes gone. Went to Miami for Xmas break and called home; Dad; grades came. Me: How’d I do? Dad: Vettes gone. Me: should I come home? Dad: I would. I’ve been like Captain Ahab searching for that car…..Oh and Dadsold it for $1600 and kept it all.

    Like 2
  4. Avatar Tort Member

    Before I finished reading the description and the owner’s asking price I thought to myself there is no way the car is still available. Someone got a great deal on a beautiful car!

    Like 0
  5. Avatar moosie

    Very nice C1, I’d love to own it. i wonder what GB62 ‘s opinion is on this one ?

    Like 0

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