I always appreciate candor from sellers and admire those who don’t portray their classic as something it isn’t. However, I had a wry smile when I read the description of this 1965 Chevrolet Corvette, with the seller boldly stating that this is a case where you can’t put lipstick on a pig. Restoring it to its former glory will be beyond the capabilities of many enthusiasts due to underlying issues. That said, it has generated significant interest since the seller listed the Corvette here on eBay in Springfield, Nebraska. Bidding has raced to $24,101, but it is unclear whether this is due to the car’s potential or to the allure of the No Reserve auction.

After its stellar introduction in 1963 and minor changes in 1964, Chevrolet’s C2 Corvette received further cosmetic refinement in 1965. Upgrades included a smoother hood and functional front fender vents, while below the surface, it signalled the arrival of the first big-block under the hood. The first owner ordered this ’65 Coupe in Nassau Blue. The seller doesn’t pull any punches, admitting that the paint is tired and that there are visible repairs to the front clip from a fender bender at some point. However, it is when we climb beneath this ‘Vette that we discover its nasty secret. There is frame rot, impacting the doglegs on both sides. The single image paints a bleak picture, and the seller indicates that it will require major work to be structurally sound. They have decades of Corvette experience and have “spliced together” a 1967 frame that could be included for an additional $1,000. The frame issues raise questions about the birdcage, although with the doors opening and closing easily, it might be okay. Many trim pieces require replacement, but the glass looks acceptable for a driver-grade build.

This Corvette’s first owner teamed its Nassau Blue exterior with an interior trimmed in Code 414 Blue vinyl. It is largely complete, with nothing significant missing beyond the seat runners. The dash is in good condition, and the console retains the factory AM/FM radio. However, it does require a retrim and a few minor pieces to return to a factory-fresh state. Kits are available to achieve that goal and represent the most cost-effective solution. Unfortunately, this Corvette no longer features an engine or transmission, making it a mechanical blank canvas. It is unclear which V8 occupied the engine bay, but if my information is correct and this car’s tachometer is original, it was the L79 version of the 327 generating 350hp. That said, I am happy to be corrected if I am wrong on that score. The transmission was a four-speed manual, and locating replacements for both should be possible if someone plans to follow the faithful path. Otherwise, they could splash their cash to create the C2 of their dreams.

We’ve seen quite a few classics at Barn Finds that have generated interest when they’ve hit the market, but this 1965 Corvette is almost in a league of its own. The listing has accumulated 821 views in the past day, and 234 people have added it to their Watch List. There is no doubt that without a reserve to hinder proceedings, it will find a new home in a few days. Would you consider joining the action, or will you sit back and observe, fascinated by what the winning bidder pays for this tired classic?