Some classic cars fascinate me because I wonder why a seller would part with a project when the finish line is within reach. However, that is the case with this 1960 Chevrolet Corvette. Its engine bay houses the legendary Dual-Quad V8, but a transmission upgrade would make it an effortless heavy-traffic or open-road cruiser. This promising project is listed here on eBay in Dana Point, California. The seller set a BIN of $46,900, and with plenty of time remaining on the listing, it provides an opportunity for enthusiasts to determine whether it is the ideal car for them.
There’s a bit to unpack with this Corvette, starting with its exterior. It appears the seller commenced their restoration, ensuring the fiberglass was in good order before laying on a coat of Gray primer. It is unclear whether the Roman Red paint in the coves is original, but if that is the case, it won’t be one of the 3,309 cars ordered with the optional two-tone combination. The buyer must check the Tag to confirm it is the correct shade, but with Roman Red second only to Ermine White in popularity, it would be unsurprising if it is. There is no information on the frame’s state, but the lack of visible corrosion in other areas suggests the news is probably positive. The mechanism and bows for the soft-top are intact, but the top itself is gone. The seller treated every piece of trim and chrome to a trip to the platers, resulting in as-new presentation. The hubcaps and glass are flawless, and with nearly 89% of buyers selecting whitewall tires, the ones on this Corvette are appropriate.
Don’t be fooled by this photo because the engine block stamps confirm this is our Corvette’s numbers-matching 283 Dual-Quad V8. It currently wears a different induction system, but the rebuilt original carburetors, intake, and valve covers are included. The seller instituted changes to make this classic a more practical daily driver. It originally featured a three-speed manual transmission, but a four-speed automatic feeds the V8’s 245hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque to the original 3.70 Posi rear end. Other changes include power assistance for the steering and upgraded disc brakes. The modifications are reversible, and many potential buyers may contemplate this to maximize the Corvette’s long-term investment potential. The seller feels it may require a new radiator, but with that installed and a basic tune-up, this classic is ready to return to its rightful place on our roads.
The new owner won’t need to put much effort into this classic’s interior because most of the hard work is complete. The carpet and door trims are excellent, the dash is impressive, and several bright trim pieces have been replaced. The seller includes a set of reproduction seatcovers for the buyer to install. Those would add the perfect finishing touches to an interior that would be considered high-end driver quality.
The photos and listing text suggest that returning this 1960 Chevrolet Corvette to its former glory would take more time than money. It would undoubtedly turn heads once complete, but some purists may view the mechanical upgrades negatively. It comes down to personal taste and the desire for originality. Reversing the changes is possible, and this strategy would probably maximize the car’s investment potential. However, the vehicle in its current form will offer a relaxed and enjoyable motoring experience. Those characteristics will be key drivers for some, but are they enough to convince you to add the cosmetic finishing touches and enjoy all it has to offer now?
There is really nothing to dislike about these cars. Good power and good looks all in one package.
Bro i would it get it running and drive it just as it is.
There were no trim tags on C1 cars. No sure way to verify original paint color(s), but looking in hidden areas can usually tell you what the main body color was.
Replace those Edelbrock valve covers with the correct ones, reinstall the proper 3-speed and reinstall the correct induction assembly and you might have a real steal at $46K. A proper paint job and the other finishing touches needed will bring the total investment to $60k plus change. Apparently the seller might be in need of the money.
3 Speed??
How about a T10 or Muncie. Nothing wrong with a 200-4R or 700-R4. A 200-4R doesn’t really fit well though as the trans mount is too far back.
Unless the owner has the original 3 speed there is no way to tell what manual trans was in the car, 3 or 4 gears.
No telling if that dual quad setup is original or something put together with mismatched parts, unless numbers are checked
No info on frame condition.
A car like this needs an in person inspection.
Not everyone likes the same things of course, but to me the 1960 Corvette is one of, if not the most beautiful American car ever made.
The 1969 Mustang is a very close second.
Had the same car in a red ’61 … bought it for $1200 in 1974 … nothing like hearing those 2-4s opening up – and pushing you back in the seat … traded it for a ’55 TBird … regret it now, but that’s what we did back then …
Why would someone sell this when it is close to being finished? Because they are naming their price and if someone is willing to pay it, then it is on to the next project.