If you want to ensure the classic you’re selling commands plenty of attention, several strategies almost guarantee success. High-quality photos are a good starting point, as is a competitive auction opening bid figure. The seller has ticked those boxes with this 1973 Chevrolet Corvette, while their decision to offer it with No Reserve could be the icing on the cake. The auction action has been spirited, and with the listing heading into its final days, I suspect that it will intensify. The seller has listed the Corvette here on eBay in Clermont, Florida. Bidding has scorched to $14,600, and with No Reserve to complicate matters, it is destined to find a new home shortly.
The seller is candid about this Corvette, emphasizing that it isn’t a Concours example or a show car. The Mille Miglia Red paint shines beautifully, but close inspection will reveal a few flaws and imperfections. However, none are bad enough to prevent the car from turning heads, and if the sale price is low enough, performing a cosmetic restoration could be financially viable. Its greatest exterior strength could be the lack of damage to the urethane front bumper cover, because it is an item that is prone to chips. The fiberglass is in good condition, with no obvious stress cracks or other problems. This Corvette’s beauty is more than skin deep, with the underside shots revealing the frame is rust-free. The trim is in good condition, and the glass is clear. The Rally wheels appear virtually perfect and are wrapped in shiny new BF Goodrich tires.
Powering this Corvette is its numbers-matching 350ci V8. As the L48 version of the small-block, it produced 190hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque when the car rolled off the showroom floor. The first owner ticked the boxes on the Order Form beside the three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission, power brakes, and power steering. That combination would provide an effortless driving experience, ensuring that the person behind the wheel wouldn’t need to be muscle-bound to maneuver the ‘Vette in tight locations. The seller assures potential buyers that they have maintained the car meticulously, and that it runs and drives well. Therefore, the winning bidder could fly in and build a relationship with their new toy as they drive it home.
The first owner didn’t spend a fortune on interior features, so this Corvette doesn’t have desirable options like air conditioning, power windows, or a tilt/telescopic steering wheel. They opted for vinyl trim in Medium Saddle, and although it isn’t perfect, the presentation is acceptable for a survivor-grade classic. There is slight wear on the driver’s seat outer edge, and the carpet has seen better days. I also believe they may have replaced the passenger-side door trim because its color doesn’t quite match the rest of the interior. The factory radio has made way for an aftermarket radio/cassette player, which is the only obvious addition. I believe that if the buyer replaced the carpet and the missing driver’s side grab handle, and sourced an appropriate adapter for the stereo, those items would dramatically improve the appearance.
The popularity of some classics can be questionable, but the C3 Corvette has been a strong market performer for years. The seller’s decision to list this 1973 example with No Reserve has created a frenzy. It has already attracted thirty-five bids, and with sixty-eight people adding it to their Watch List, I feel there is more to come. I would be interested to learn whether any Barn Finds readers would consider joining a potential bidding war. If you are tempted, what would be the maximum you would pay for this classic?
Speaking of improving the appearance, the buyer would probably want to look into changing out those mufflers.
They just need to be re-positioned to the stock location. They are fugly set up this way and just asking for that front lower corner to rot out.
What’s with the 4×4 stance?
Big Len, that was my question, is this an off-road model I’ve not heard about. From the looks of the center console, and the firewall, it appears to have aircon from the factory.
Being an L48 with the automatic? This would be a perfect Sweet 16 birthday present for someones daughter. Nice and slow, but with a hint of sportiness.
You are exactly right about this being a perfect example of a young ladies car. I also agree with Big Len re: the stance. I’m not exactly sure what would make it sit so high.
All that aside, pretty decent car if the bidding doesn’t get too crazy.
I’ve read in the past that the higher stance on some of these muscle cars can be caused by new springs etc
Certainly far from factory correct. AC compressor missing, wrong air cleaner, ignition shielding missing, and what’s up with those mufflers. Sorely overpriced. 73s are great cars, vastly improved over 68 to 72 models. I have obe, with all correct parts and a 4 speed.
$7,100 with 26 bids.
This one is a slow mover.
One day left and No Reserve. Someone could get lucky and get a decent deal.