Some cars effortlessly tick the boxes many enthusiasts consider crucial when seeking a classic to park in their garage. Early examples of Chevrolet’s C3 Corvette are inherently desirable, but this 1968 Convertible lifts that to a higher level. It retains its numbers-matching L79 V8, and its presentation is impressive. It is ready for action with a new owner behind the wheel, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this classic listed here on Craigslist in Lake Stevens, Washington. The seller set their price at $39,000 for this high-end driver.
After a one-year delay, Chevrolet introduced its C3 Corvette for the 1968 model year. The styling was striking, perfectly encapsulating the automotive industry’s confidence at the time. The C3 showed impressive longevity, with the final cars leaving the line in 1982. This first-year Convertible makes a positive initial impression, with the seller confirming that its previous owner performed a restoration between 2006 and 2008. It included a repaint in the car’s original Silverstone Silver, which I consider the classiest of the ten shades available in 1968. It seems others shared that sentiment, with 3,435 buyers ticking that box on their Order Form. The seller states that a close inspection will reveal minor chips and spider-webbing, but the paint shines like glass, and the fiberglass is free from cracks and other damage. Considering the car’s history, it would be fair to expect no rust issues with the frame or the birdcage. The trim looks exceptional, and the glass is clear. The only unknown is the potential presence and condition of the soft-top. However, the tank sticker indicates that the first owner selected White, adding to the car’s classy appearance.
The first owner didn’t go overboard when ordering this Corvette, but they chose a pretty tasty mechanical combination. They teamed the 350ci V8 with a four-speed close-ratio manual transmission, a 3.70 Posi rear end, and power brakes. They selected the L79 version of the 350, which delivered 350hp and 360 ft/lbs of torque when the car was shiny and new. Chevrolet offered more powerful motors, but with the L79 only adding $105.35 to the sticker price, it is easy to understand why 33% of buyers selected it. The seller confirms that this classic is numbers-matching. The Corvette’s current and previous owner invested a significant amount of time and money into the car’s mechanical components since the cosmetic restoration. The seller replaced the clutch and recently fitted a new OEM shifter. The previous owner rebuilt the engine, transmission, and carburetor, and fitted stainless steel brake lines. The sale includes an enormous collection of original documentation, from the Tank Sticker and Owner’s Manual to the Invoices and Receipts for its restoration. The seller has only clocked around 2,000 miles since 2020, stating that this baby is ready to cruise with its new owner behind the wheel.
This Corvette’s interior continues the theme of impressive presentation, courtesy of a complete retrim in its original Black. Unsurprisingly, it means there is no evidence of wear or other problems, and hitting the road with the top down won’t embarrass the new owner. There are no signs of broken plastic, and the only aftermarket addition is the cup holder nestled beneath the parking brake. The first owner didn’t equip the car with air conditioning, but they did select power windows, a tilt/telescopic wheel, and an AM/FM radio. The seller states that everything inside this classic works as it should, and if that includes the often troublesome clock, it is a minor victory.
Some classics effortlessly possess the “wow” factor, and this 1968 Corvette Convertible comfortably fits into that category. Despite its minor cosmetic imperfections, it still presents beautifully and is guaranteed to turn heads wherever it goes. Chevrolet produced what would eventually become an automotive icon with the C3 Corvette, creating one of the few vehicles in motoring history with a silhouette that is instantly recognized globally. The seller’s price is close to the top end of the market, but recent successful sales suggest it could be justified. If you’ve previously owned a C3, did you enjoy the experience enough to consider a repeat performance? If so, could this ’68 Convertible be a strong candidate?
$105… it was a great option box to check off ✔️
1968-69 to me was the purest Mako Shark interpretation of the C3 and the L-79 327 was a high winding sweet spot for the Chevy small block. For a 68 this car has very good body gaps and very nice cosmetics. It looks to be worth the asking price if it checks out.