Project cars almost always offer their owner choices, but this 1967 Corvette Convertible is different. Its engine bay houses a healthy but non-original V8. However, the numbers-matching 327 is included for those planning a faithful restoration. Don’t let the appearance fool you because it is as solid as you are likely to find. The ‘Vette is listed here on eBay in New Berlin, Wisconsin. The seller set their auction to open at $50,000, but there are no bids at the time of writing.
The seller states that the original owner placed this Corvette in storage, and it remained hidden for more than forty years. It is unclear when it emerged from hibernation, but the seller candidly admits it doesn’t present as well as it could. The original Marlboro Maroon paint carries a selection of chips and scratches, and a cosmetic refresh would be a logical strategy. The buyer can commence that process with a solid foundation because the fiberglass looks free from obvious cracks or problems. The seller was told it is a “no hit” body, with no signs of repairs in the supplied photos. The Black convertible top is well beyond its best, with the seller recommending replacement as a priority. They have a non-original hardtop, and although it isn’t included, the seller will negotiate on this with the successful bidder. For those worried about rust, there is plenty of good news. The last photo in this article provides insight into the car’s structural integrity, and there are no signs of problems. The car’s underside is beautifully detailed and seems to need nothing. The chrome and trim look excellent for a driver-grade vehicle, and the Rally wheels are spotless.
Lifting the hood reveals what makes this Corvette a fascinating project. This Convertible rolled off the line equipped with the optional L79 version of the 327ci V8. For Corvette buyers in 1967, the L79 represented excellent value for money. The “standard” motor produced 300hp, but by spending an additional $105.35, the buyer received 350hp. The performance improvement was significant, with the ¼-mile ET dropping from 14.8 seconds to 14.2 seconds when teamed with the four-speed manual transmission we find in this car. More tellingly, it pushed the car’s top speed from 131mph to 146mph. It is little wonder that nearly 28% of buyers splashed the extra cash. For potential buyers, the news that this car is no longer numbers-matching may be disappointing. However, there is no need to be because the original motor is included, and the seller was told it is healthy. Therefore, a faithful restoration is within reach. The seller fitted an aluminum radiator and a few other items but includes all the original parts in the sale. The car runs and drives but is cold-blooded and often stalls out after around ten minutes. It sounds like it requires a tune-up and some essential maintenance, which could see it plying our streets again without the new owner spending a fortune.
The originality of this Convertible extends to its interior. While it is serviceable, it needs TLC if the buyer pursues a restoration. The upholstered surfaces show wear, and the carpet looks tired. Before I spent a dime inside this classic, I would deep clean everything. That process costs more time than money and might reveal parts that are better than they first seem. It could save money on the build, and I don’t remember any enthusiasts complaining that their project didn’t cost enough! The interior isn’t loaded with options, although the telescopic wheel would be welcome for those wishing to achieve a more comfortable driving experience.
One of the most attractive aspects of this 1967 Corvette Convertible is the alternatives it offers a new owner. Addressing its minor mechanical maladies to transform it into a reliable driver should not be difficult or expensive, and that might be the ideal starting point. Its solid nature means the buyer could enjoy it immediately while planning their next move. Including the original engine makes a faithful restoration realistic, which will probably be this car’s ultimate fate. Would you pursue that path, or would enjoying it as an original survivor be impossible to resist?
What this car doesn’t even have a garage? Could be a really nice driver but pictures don’t show the greatest, but could be a great buy also.
you will have $40,000 + in just a restoration,,,,,asking price is too high… you could probably find a finished car for $70,000 to $90000…
Another lazy person that can’t even vacuum or clean it up a little or put the air cleaner lid on right but will want big bucks for it
Nice photos of the underside where the frame DOESN’T rust . .. They tell almost nothing.
Hmmm…
The interior has 130000 miles onit
I think if he started his bid around $25K he would have had some action on it. Being as it is not garaged at this time; I would want to know how good the “birdcage” is. That’s the structure around the cowling, which provide a lot of support for the vehicle. Although 55 to 70 are my favorite years for Corvettes, I would still be hesitant to bid on this. If the seats are vinyl or leather, I would hand rub “GoJO” or some type of lanolin-based hand cleaner into the seats to clean them.
Kinda steep for a low option car that sat in high humidity Wisconsin. As one comment here said you can find a restored or very good original L79 for about $70,000. L79 probably the best running small block ever. No solid lifters to adjust, but will zoom to 6,000 rpm. I would bid on this if ge started at say 30K.
looks like nice project at about 40k if you are looking for the engine year check the block number on the web
Warning on the maroon Vette! That pie tin type aircleaner can go onto the carb in any direction – as seen. But on the underside is a small dimple which fits the top of the over-center carb linkage. If the aircleaner isn’t on exactly correctly, when the car is wide open throttle, it sticks open, the car quickly gets over 100mph. It happened to me.