Some classics are a “what you see is what you get” proposition, and this 1959 Chevrolet Corvette fits that mold. It is a stalled project offering many possibilities. Returning it to a showroom state is possible, although other options are worth considering. The seller listed it with No Reserve, helping it to generate considerable interest. The ‘Vette is offered here on eBay in Miami, Florida. Bidding has raced to $30,100, and with No Reserve in play, someone is about to sink their teeth into a potentially rewarding project build.
The seller admits this Corvette has sat for years and requires a total restoration. Corvette buyers in 1959 could order their new purchase with a two-tone paint finish, with 2,931 ticking that box on the Order Form. The most popular was the Roman Red and White, with this car being 1-of-805 wearing that combination. It shines well, but the listing suggests that a close inspection will reveal flaws and imperfections. How severe these are will probably determine the buyer’s approach to this build because significant paint or fiberglass issues may prompt them to strip the car and start from scratch. There is no soft-top, but the sale includes a hardtop in matching Roman Red. Structural issues aren’t a consideration, with the seller describing the frame as solid. Some trim pieces require a trip to the platers, while others should present well following a careful and thorough polish.
One aspect of this Corvette requiring little attention is its interior. It is missing some small items like window handles and the upper door trim chrome strips, but it is otherwise complete. The upholstered surfaces are pretty respectable, although some potential marks on the seats (the photos are inconclusive on that point) may prompt a perfectionist to order new seatcovers. However, if considered purely as a driver-grade vehicle, the condition is acceptable. The carpet looks relatively new, and the dash is tidy. One item exhibiting noticeable deterioration on close inspection is the wheel. It is probably beyond restoration, meaning the buyer could spend as much as $800 on a good genuine secondhand replacement or $550 on a reproduction item. Which option they choose will depend on their desire for originality.
This is not the first Corvette we’ve seen from this seller, and as has been the case in the past, they aren’t very forthcoming about its mechanical specifications or health. The engine bay houses a small-block V8, but its capacity is unclear. If it is correct, it should be a 283, but the only certainty is that it is hooked to a two-speed Powerglide transmission. It looks like a two-barrel carburetor is bolted to the intake, making me confidently stick out my neck and state that this Corvette almost certainly isn’t numbers-matching. That will negatively impact the car’s ultimate value, but it also means the winning bidder could treat it as a blank canvas project. Reviving this V8 and ensuring its specifications match one of the factory powerplants offered in 1959 is an option, but so is pulling it and slotting something more modern or powerful under the hood. Some might find the restomod path irresistible, and the car could still command a healthy price in that guise. Reading your comments to see what direction you would choose will be fascinating.
This 1959 Corvette offers so many opportunities it is impossible to know where to begin. Its interior is surprisingly nice, and the solid frame means there are no structural weaknesses. That leaves its drivetrain, and this is where the winning bidder could let down their hair and go for broke. They could pursue an almost infinite combination of drivetrain combinations that could transform the ‘Vette into a potent classic commanding respect. It has attracted thirty-three bids, with plenty of time for that figure and the price to climb significantly. Even if you feel it is beyond your means or ability, monitoring this auction could be entertaining.
Agree there is still a lot to do on this car but the more I look the more I see that isn’t right. Engine information not shared, spray can paint on it not the Chevy orange, wiring looks shot, hood is warped, and don’t remember ever seeing those wheel covers on a Corvette. I’m sure there is more but my brain doesn’t work that well this early in the morning. Don’t think this one is worth more than the present bid. Note: Chevy Orange on our engines.
Not a doubt that’s just a older small block dropped in and doesn’t look as it’s run in a long time. That 2bbl carb says it’s out of passenger car. This is just an old Corvette that would make a great driver with a few bucks and some attention. Want a show car keep moving.
The engine compartment is a disaster,can’t go to far without a fan and shrought the hubcaps look something like a 61chevy
A car with this make and year certainly deserves to be blocked out to get rid of all the ripples and have a proper paint job just to add to what’s already been said.
It’s wearing ’61 Chevy wheel covers, and they look really out of place here.
Here we go again – thanks Adam for highlighting this less-than-honest EBay Seller.
Someone here already got raked by this guy, why not make it two?