Some classics tick so many of the “right” boxes that it is seemingly impossible to identify a single greatest attribute. This 1969 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible is a prime example deserving a close look. The seller recently revived it following a twenty-year barn slumber. It has belonged to the same family since Day One and has a big-block under the hood. Early C3 Corvettes are inherently desirable, but the seller’s decision to offer this Convertible with No Reserve has ignited a bidding war. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this beauty listed here on eBay in Clermont, Florida. The price has soared to $25,000, and with No Reserve to complicate matters, it is only days away from finding a new home.
After a warm reception upon its 1968 release, the C3 Corvette went from strength to strength in the years that followed. Chevrolet made only minor changes for the 1969 model year, limiting exterior updates to a few trim pieces and revised door handles. This Convertible has been part of the same family since it left the lot. The seller confirms it underwent a repaint in the 1990s, when the color was changed from the factory LeMans Blue to an unspecified Turquoise. The seller indicates it isn’t perfect, suggesting another cosmetic refresh wouldn’t go astray. If the winning bidder follows that path, it would be the ideal opportunity to return the car to its factory form. The fiberglass has a crack in the front clip between the headlights, but is otherwise okay. The seller confirms that the frame and birdcage are rock-solid, with no rust or other problems. The trim looks acceptable for a driver-grade restoration, and the glass is clear.
The seller confirms that they recently revived this Corvette after a twenty-year barn hibernation. It features a 427ci V8, a three-speed Hydramatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. It appears this is the L36 version of the big-block, generating a factory-quoted 390hp and 460 ft/lbs of torque. The company offered more potent versions, but this one would still pin occupants in their seats if the driver floored the gas pedal. The first thing to note is that the Corvette no longer houses its numbers-matching motor. The original V8 failed in 1972, and the engine bay now holds a dealer-installed replacement. The recent revival was successful because the car runs and drives well. The big-block produces plenty of power, and the transmission shifts smoothly.
This Corvette may have received an exterior color change, but it retains its original Blue vinyl interior. It isn’t perfect, with the images revealing a few seatcover splits, deteriorating door trims, and tired carpet. Perfectionists will probably opt for a retrim if they refresh the exterior, and while that won’t be cheap, it could be an excellent long-term investment. The owner has resisted the temptation to install aftermarket equipment, and although they didn’t load the ‘Vette with factory options, they splashed $172.75 on an AM/FM radio.
If this 1969 Corvette Convertible proves nothing else, it demonstrates that there are still extremely desirable classics lurking in sheds and barns, awaiting the day when dedicated enthusiasts will liberate them and return these vehicles to their rightful place on our roads. This Corvette isn’t perfect, but the interest it has generated is extremely impressive. It has received 31 bids at the time of writing, and the Watch List tally of 114 suggests that figure should climb as the auction heads to its conclusion. If you’ve previously owned a C3, are you tempted to recapture those glory days by joining the bidding war on this Convertible? I wish you luck if you do.
Hats off to the photographer who perfectly captured the beauty of the early C3. Nailed it.
Haha, Chevrolet might have “made only minor changes for the 1969 model year” but there were a lot of them.
Were the front seats switched?
Can i assume overrevving damaged the 427 – or is there something inherently wrong with that motor? – i know of several original 400 cube tin indians with cast rods with over 250k miles that are still kicking with no smoke or ticking.
I didn’t realize that backup lights were an optional feature on the 1968 Corvette – possibly the only ’68 US Car that could be had w/o them?! – in which case u got four red tailites – which was a good safety idea if 1 bulb burned out – tho not for cops writing tickets. IMO, 4 taillites minimum should have been law – for safety’s sake.
How about 6 tail lights on these?
Those wheel covers have to go! Any Corvette from 1963-1972, especially a convertible needs a manual transmission. Just my own old school opinion. That body style will always look great.
With days left on the listing, the price on this will certainly double.
neat color not often seen
I would normally agree on the hub caps but those are some of the best ever produced ,and suit the car .They look fantastic in person ,especially on a roadster , for some reason .
“price has soared to 25k …..” ? There is a lot more soaring to go ,at least $ 50k and very possibly 75 .