No Reserve: 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible

Enthusiasts will typically accept a classic’s shortcomings if it is either completely original or exceptionally cheap. This 1963 Corvette Convertible has a few issues, and it isn’t completely original. However, with the seller listing it with No Reserve, it might sell for a figure below the expected market average. Why not take a closer look to determine whether this is a project you might consider tackling?

Chevrolet introduced the C2 Corvette for the 1963 model year, and despite early management misgivings, the company added a Coupe variant to the mix. This proved a wise decision because the strategy propelled the latest model to record sales that eclipsed the previous figure by almost 50%. However, the Convertible was still the popular choice by a slim margin. The seller is candid about this Convertible, pointing out that the color change from its original Sebring Silver is the first of many changes. The car wears the wrong front fenders and hood, and the wheel arch flares, modified headlamps, six-light rear, wider wheels, and side exhaust are later additions. They state that the birdcage is solid, and I wish I could say the same for the frame. The underside shots reveal holes requiring attention, and only dismantling the vehicle to the last nut and bolt would ensure a high-end result. There is no soft-top, but the factory hardtop is in good order.

Ordering a ’63 Corvette brought a selection of 327ci V8s, and it is unclear which this car’s first owner selected. That is now irrelevant because the engine bay houses a 350ci V8, backed by a four-speed manual transmission. The seller indicates that the small-block features an upgraded camshaft, teamed with an Offenhauser intake, a Holley 750 carburetor, and Hooker headers. The improved breathing will have unlocked additional power, making a figure beyond 300hp realistic. They state that not only are the headers and side exhaust new, but the same is true of the Cooper Cobra tires and brakes. The car runs and drives, although with the brakes pulling to one side, the winning bidder may need to perform further tweaks before the car is genuinely roadworthy.

The modifications continue inside this Convertible, courtesy of the C3 seats, swapped gauges, Hurst shifter, and the aftermarket wheel. Treating everything to a deep clean would seem a logical first step as the winning bidder improves the presentation. The door trims and dash seem in good order, so achieving driver-grade presentation should be realistic. The new owner must decide how much they are willing to sink into this project, especially if returning the inside to a factory-fresh state is part of their brief. That will entail sourcing and replacing the listed parts, which will add to the project cost.

The wholesale changes made to this 1963 Corvette might deter some potential buyers, while the presence of rust means that its restoration is a frame-off proposition. The seller listed it here on eBay in Mishawaka, Indiana. Twenty-four bids have pushed the price to $20,100, and with No Reserve in play, it is guaranteed to find a new home in a few days. Is this a project you would consider tackling, or will you sit out this dance?