The styling of very few vehicles enjoys immediate global recognition, with the original Mini and Volkswagen Beetle notable inclusions to that list. No less worthy is Chevrolet’s C3 Corvette. It is fair to say that when the company released its latest offering for the 1968 model year, it laid the foundations for a vehicle that would become a styling icon. However, our feature car demonstrates that these cars had the muscle to match their looks, with the engine bay housing the original and potent L79 version of the 327ci V8. This classic isn’t totally original but is ideal for an enthusiast seeking a high-end driver.
Chevrolet released its C3 Corvette for the 1968 model year, and with record sales of 28,566 cars, the company undoubtedly had a winner on its hands. Our feature Convertible is a first-year example that presents beautifully. The Blue Metallic paint isn’t an original shade from that year, and I am unable to determine the exact color name. The car also features a tight-fitting White soft-top and a factory hardtop. Faulting the Corvette’s overall presentation is seemingly impossible. This is understandable, with the seller suggesting they hold a binder of Invoices and Receipts documenting its restoration. Scrutinizing the images seems to indicate that the Convertible hasn’t seen much action since the work ended. The paint holds a mirror shine, and like the fiberglass panels, it appears faultless. The beauty is more than skin-deep, with the underside shots revealing that the frame wears a consistent coat of Black paint and is rust-free. The headlamps and wiper doors can be a weak point on early C3 Corvettes, developing a reputation for not functioning as they should. The seller emphasizes that there are no such problems with this classic. The trim and glass are spotless, as are the Rally wheels.
The theme of spotless presentation continues inside this classic, suggesting that the interior received a similar level of TLC to the exterior. The Black vinyl trim is immaculate, as is the carpet. The dash features clear gauges, and the console has avoided the minor scratches that can occur with age. The seller confirms that this ‘Vette features an upgraded stereo for tunes on the move, although reversing that change would be easy if the winning bidder prefers a “factory” appearance.
The 1968 model year might have been the first for the C3 Corvette. However, it also marked the end of an important era. It was the last where Chevrolet offered its small-block V8 with a 327ci capacity in a Corvette. It would climb to 350ci in 1969, remaining a staple for the remainder of the C3’s production life. This car’s first owner selected the desirable L79 version of the 327, allowing 350hp and 360 ft/lbs of torque to feed the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. They also elected to equip the car with power-assisted steering and brakes, which many buyers will welcome for a more relaxed driving experience. The seller confirms that this Convertible retains its numbers-matching drivetrain, although it is easy to spot a range of cosmetic enhancements and aftermarket headers. Once again, the changes are reversible, although buyers seeking a driver-grade classic will probably leave things untouched. It appears that the Receipts collection includes some for an engine rebuild, which is positive news. The seller describes the car as fun to drive, a claim I find readily believable.
Spotless originality is often a key consideration as enthusiasts search for a classic to park in their garage. However, this 1968 Corvette Convertible confirms that people are willing to make an exception if the vehicle in question meets a high standard. The seller listed the ‘Vette here on eBay in Auburn, Washington. Bidding has soared beyond the reserve to $22,800, with plenty of time remaining for the price to climb further. Why wouldn’t it? The changes made are reversible if someone wishes to return this classic to a factory-fresh state, but it seems to tick every box for buyers seeking a high-end driver. It is days away from finding a new home, and it will be fascinating to discover whether we have any readers who find this Corvette irresistible.
Beautiful car. It’s hard to fault the C3 package with good looks and good power. One thing I don’t understand is why GM didn’t put decent exhaust manifolds on their engines or why the comments these days from the purists insist on taking them off. It’s proven the headers increase power and fuel mileage and in the long run are better for the engines.
Nailed it, bobhess-these are the climatic design of the Iconic 60’s-70’s Corvette. IMHO, the SBC made more sense in a sports car for handling/weight reasons.
Too, I saw what you did with “ It’s proven the headers….in the long run are better for the engines.” – a great play on words, sir.
The thing about tube headers is that they are more expensive to produce, often increase engine noise, make some maintenance more difficult, and have a very limited life span compared to cast iron manifolds.
That said, I put headers on everything.
Headers? I hate them period! Everything from spark plug replacement,ignition wire routing,excessive heat,and some cases just making things fit.When I bought my 59 Elky and my 59 delivery years ago and did what they needed,I took them off and the crappy exhaust along with them,opened the back door to my shop and OUT they went into the scrap pile!.I did a bunch of work last year on a 64 Dart GT that had a 360 with headers.Chrysler Products are the worst with headers btw! I don’t put headers on anything! Period!!!
Why in the name of Zora would someone not paint the car the correct color? Huge mistake IMO.
Chiefly because people can paint their car any color they want.
I expressed an opinion that carries as much standing as yours or anyone else’s opinion on these pages. Sorry if you didn’t agree.
And then there’s the subjective word “correct”…
lol. I’ve been part of both crowds, and Vette guys are just ahead of Mopar guys at the top of the pickiness scale.
Being the first year of the C3 there were one year only differences in parts and the car’s fit and finish. For this reason some collectors shyed away from this year Vette. The next year’s model had fixed some issues and had corrected most of those issues of the first year C3. But the 68 Vette did offer some things you only got for that year making it a special model Vette in my opinion and this one is nice and reasonably priced. I like the car.
Frank, you end your comment with IMO (in my opinion). You are certainly entitled to your opinion, just as the owner of any vehicle is entitled to their opinion as to what color they like on their vehicle.
This ’68 presents well and looks like a Corvette any enthusiast would be happy to take to a car show. Perhaps a closer examination of the
” binder of Invoices and Receipts documenting its restoration”,
could determine the exact color. To me it is close to a Carlisle blue.
Only year for the big steering wheel and push button door release in a C3. Nice looking roadster.
You have that right, Melton. Many moons ago I was at an all Corvette show with my non numbers matching driver level 1972 with a sign on the windshield requesting please do not judge. A helpful “expert” informed me that the screws for the taillight lenses were not correct. I thanked him for calling this to my attention. This is a nice C3 which are my favorite Covettes. Someone will be getting a very presentable car that is a blast to drive. GLWTS.
I might be wrong but I thought that engine came with a Holley carb and an aluminum manifold.
Not in 1968. For whatever reason Chevrolet decided all L79’s in 1968 whether in a Nova, Chevelle/El Camino and Corvette came equipped that way, as opposed to the 1967 and earlier which came as you remembered.
Steve R
I guess I assumed that since the L79 in my ’68 Nova was rated 325 HP that the Vette must have been left alone and still had the Holly and alum. manifold. Thanks