The seller has been the custodian of this 1965 Corvette Convertible since 1972. They say they treated it to a restoration around thirty years ago, but I prefer to consider it a meticulous refurbishment. It has undergone a few changes as part of that process but remains an excellent driver-grade classic. All good things must end, and they have decided the time is right for the Corvette to find a new home. It is listed for sale here on eBay in Scottsville, New York. The bidding has raced to $42,100 in a No Reserve auction.
There’s a bit for potential buyers to consider with this Corvette. With 15,376 examples rolling off the production line in 1965, the Convertible outsold its Coupe sibling by a ratio of 2:1. Original and unmolested examples can command eye-watering prices, and even modified versions like our feature car perform well in the classic market. The seller indicates they treated the vehicle to a frame-off restoration around three decades ago. However, there are enough changes across the entire car to lead me to consider it a refurbishment. The Trim Tag confirms that the Silver paint gracing its panels is not original, with the first owner ordering the car in Glen Green. It presents well, with no significant problems with the paint, fiberglass, or Black soft-top. There are a few nicks and marks, but this is acceptable after three decades. The seller states the birdcage is sound, while the underside shots reveal a structurally solid frame with no evidence of rust or prior accident repairs. The front bumpers and brackets aren’t attached but are included in the sale. The remaining trim and glass look good, but the side exhaust is another change that motivates me to consider this a refurbished vehicle. However, the ‘Vette still looks excellent for a driver-quality classic.
The Corvette’s interior looks nice, which is a relief. One of the potential negatives with owning a classic convertible is that it is difficult to hide a sub-standard interior. That doesn’t appear to be an issue because the Black leather seat upholstery looks excellent. The same is true of the door trims, dash, and console. The carpet exhibits some light fading but remains acceptable for a driver. The factory radio has vacated its rightful place in favor of an aftermarket stereo, with speakers mounted behind the seats. It is worth noting that the Tag indicates this Convertible rolled off the line with its interior trimmed in Saddle vinyl, which further adds to my belief that this is a refurbished vehicle.
If you remain undecided about whether this Corvette is restored or refurbished, examining its drivetrain configuration could sway your opinion one way or the other. Lifting the hood should reveal a 327ci V8, but that engine made way for a rebuilt 350. Its specifications are unclear, but the power feeds to the back wheels via the numbers-matching four-speed manual transmission. The appearance suggests that this small-block has received a few upgrades, so a power output beyond 300hp would seem feasible. Therefore, this classic should easily storm the ¼ mile in under 15 seconds. For those craving originality, the seller includes the numbers-matching 327 short block. It is unclear whether the remaining parts are present, leaving the new owner to decide whether returning the Convertible to its factory specifications is viable. If the buyer elects to leave well enough alone, this ‘Vette is a turnkey proposition. It runs and drives well and is ready to be enjoyed by its lucky new owner.
Sure, this 1965 Corvette Convertible may not be original, but it is a tidy driver that a new owner could enjoy immediately. Reinstating the numbers-matching motor is an option some may consider, but it is unclear whether the original cylinder heads and other peripherals are present. If I were to hand over my hard-earned cash for this classic, I would probably squirrel away that engine block and drive the vehicle untouched. Do you agree, or would you choose a different path?
Sound’s good to me Adam. I’d put the front bumper back on and hit the road.
Looks like a really decent car. For me, I would do a few things to bring it back closer to original:
1) Replace the side-pipes with the original GM style that have heat-shields
2) Re-attach front bumper .
3) Install OE style: air filter, plug wires, and replace ignition shielding etc.
4) Install OE style radio, and get rid of 6×9 speakers in rear.
Would take a weekend to do. Then enjoy.
The c2s without the front bumpers is like going to store with your pants down
Refreshing to see a,C2 not over restored to the point you can’t drive it. Listen up folks, I was 16 in 1972 and this is how many Corvettes looked then. The NCRS was not around and nobody looked at the engine pad before buying a car. Then the scammers were born.
With a refurbish 3 decades ago 20’000 is a fair price for this.
A repaint, new interior and some tricks under the bonnet
– Weber crossflow intake and 2x carbs – and get rid of
this sidepipes and its a great classic. This side pipes would
never pass emissions or noise controls, for a quick moment
of feeling lucky hearing the hammering V8 doesnt compares
the head aches the new buyer receives with cops demand
for new vehicle inspection. You’re feeling lucky without
I like the car, but first thing I would do is get rid of that plastic fuel filter and the air cleaner. Both those items are a huge, repeat huge fire risk. That style air cleaner uses a thin foam “element” that can easily catch fire with a backfire, or suck the foam into the carb. In addition to those issues, it is one of the worst flowing air cleaners of all time. I could live with the headers for a while, while sourcing a set of factory style reproduction side pipes.