There are many reasons why a project build can stall, and this 1960 Chevrolet Corvette has fallen victim to two of the most common. The seller admits that, after investing over $60,000 to date, they have run out of time and money. However, their loss could be your gain, because the sale includes a freshly rebuilt 283ci V8 and a range of parts to help the winning bidder on their way. And there will be a winning bidder, because the auction has sailed beyond the reserve. The seller has listed the Corvette here on eBay in Missoula, Montana. Twenty-one bids have pushed the price to $25,000 as the auction heads into its final days.
Chevrolet’s 1956 styling update to the Corvette introduced the two-tone paint option. It proved extremely popular, with at least 30% of buyers ticking that box on their Order Form each year until the company discontinued the option at the end of 1961. Teaming Roman Red with White was the most common choice in 1961, and with a production total of 779, it accounted for 7.6% of all Corvettes built during that model year. The seller admits they have run out of time and money during this car’s restoration, and there is still plenty of hard work remaining for the winning bidder. The limited shots of the frame look positive, but the body requires plenty of cosmetic TLC. The deterioration is bad enough to justify stripping away the existing paint, and anyone seeking a high-end result will take that as a given. However, the bright exterior trim looks superb, and its restoration might be where the seller has spent a slice of their cash. The windshield looks clear, and the parts stash includes what appear to be new seals and gaskets.
One feature that initially disappointed potential Corvette buyers was the company’s decision to team a six-cylinder motor with a two-speed Powerglide transmission. The resulting performance was acceptable, but customers expected a more engaging driving experience. Learning quickly, Chevrolet introduced a V8 in 1955, and the six disappeared at the end of that model year. This classic features a 283ci V8, teamed with a four-speed manual transmission. The motor’s specifications are unclear, but the seller states that it is freshly rebuilt. The other unknown is whether the removed components, such as the carburetor and radiator, are present. However, with the prospect of the buyer having at least 230hp under their right foot once the build is complete, this 2,980 lb ‘Vette will provide an entertaining motoring experience.
Another great unknown surrounding this Corvette is the interior. It features the same Red and White combination found on the exterior, but the only visible upholstered components are the door trims. I can’t spot the seats, meaning that another cost for the buyer could be sourcing appropriate replacements. The dash structure is intact, and the removed gauges are included. The wheel looks good, but a complete interior retrim appears unavoidable as part of this restoration. Upholstery kits in vinyl typically retail for around $1,900, and the new owner would probably need to factor in a few dollars extra for seat foam.
After an inauspicious start, the Chevrolet Corvette had established itself securely in the market by 1960. Buyers embraced the domestically produced sports car, and that year’s sales tally of 10,261 represented the first time it entered five-figure territory. From there, the badge went from strength to strength. This 1960 Corvette project looks promising, and if the bidding doesn’t climb far beyond the current level, the seller’s investment to date could make it a bargain buy. However, the interest generated means that potential buyers may need to fight to take it home. Are you prepared for that battle?
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