Originality is a key consideration for many enthusiasts seeking a classic to park in their garage. If you fit that mold, you may find this 1973 Corvette ticks the boxes. It is an original and unmolested survivor, from the V8 under the hood to the paint that cloaks its panels. Its only need is a new home, with the seller listing the Corvette here on eBay in Burleson, Texas. Bidding sits at $19,900, although that figure is below the reserve.

The 1973 model year marked some of the most significant changes during the C3 Corvette’s production cycle. The chrome front bumper made way for a new unit with a urethane cover that added a few pounds to the Corvette’s nose. Chevrolet performed suspension changes designed to improve handling with radial tires, and tighter emission regulations softened the performance of what was once a hard-edged sports car. However, the changes didn’t impact sales, with 30,464 buyers taking one home. The first owner ordered this classic in stunning Code 945 Blue Green, a new shade introduced in 1973. Its tenure on the color palette was short and sweet, disappearing when the model year ended. The seller claims the paint is original and that this classic has never undergone restoration. Its condition is particularly praiseworthy if that is accurate. They state it shows well for its age, suggesting an in-person inspection will probably expose minor chips and marks confirming its owners have enjoyed this car as its makers created it. The fiberglass is in good order, and there are no apparent glass issues. There is a lot to like about this Corvette, and purists will appreciate that its beauty is more than superficial.

The first thing many potential buyers might appreciate about this Corvette is its numbers-matching status. The second is that the original owner wasn’t afraid to wield their pen freely on the Order Form when the time came to choose their preferred options. Therefore, they ticked the boxes beside the L82 version of the 350ci V8, the four-speed manual transmission, and power assistance for the steering and brakes. The entry-level L48 small-block produced 190hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque. The L82 boosted the power to 250hp, although torque dropped marginally to 285 ft/lbs. The optional engine slashed the car’s ¼-mile ET from 15.9 to 15.1 seconds, but there was still a big-block option for those preferring something more brutal. The owner’s focus with this classic has been on maintaining its originality. The list of parts replaced doesn’t extend beyond typical consumables like tires, batteries, filters, and belts. It is a turnkey proposition for someone seeking an above-average survivor.

It is worth noting that while its exterior and drivetrain are original, this Corvette’s interior has received a couple of reversible upgrades. Someone has swapped the wheel and radio, but I can’t spot any other aftermarket additions. It is trimmed in Medium Saddle leather that is in exceptional condition. The lack of visible wear on surfaces that have five decades under their belt is admirable, indicating it has always been treated respectfully. The carpet has avoided the typical fading issues, and there is no crumbling plastic. The original owner didn’t wield their pen quite as freely when selecting interior options, but the winning bidder will undoubtedly appreciate the air conditioning and tilt/telescopic wheel.

Enthusiasts spent decades focused on the chrome-bumper C3 Corvettes in the classic market, and those were the cars consistently commanding the highest values. However, the earlier cars with the urethane front bumper now have a strong following. This one has received thirty-four bids, confirming that fact. There is time for the bid total and price to climb, which it undoubtedly will. If a C3 has been on your Wish List, would you consider pursuing this one further? I wish you luck if you do.