Other than the introduction of a new engine, the 1962 Corvette was much like the 1961 Corvette. It was the last of the first generation C1 ‘Vettes and hit record sales numbers up to that point. This ’62 edition has the second most powerful engine offered that year, the 327 cubic-inch V8 rated at 340 hp (fuel injection would get you to 360 hp). It comes with a spare frame, but nothing is mentioned as to whether this car needs it. Located outside of Youngstown, Ohio, this Chevy project is available here on craigslist for $37,500. T.J. comes through again for us in the tips department!
The all-new Corvette Stingray was due out for 1963, so Chevy soldiered on with the C1 one last time in 1962. More than 14,500 copies left the assembly line, with nearly a third having the same 327 as in the seller’s car. Since more than three-quarters of all Corvettes were produced with a 4-speed manual, it’s a safe bet that’s how this car is equipped, too. Assuming it’s all numbers-matching. The 283 had been retired from the Corvette portfolio the year before.
Besides being the end of the line for the C1, this model year put a pin in the solid rear axle and an external trunk (until 1998). The same could be said for exposed peepers, gone from 1963 to 2005. Though it doesn’t look it, this seller’s car may be rare in that it’s said to have just over 25,000 miles on the odometer, likely from not seeing much sunlight over the past 60 years. The Ermine White paint is beyond saving and the interior shows the usual wear and tear you’d expect after all this time.
Whether it’s needed here or not, the seller is throwing in a spare C1 frame that is nearly ready to receive some powder coat. If it’s not factored in the restoration of this car, you could always flip it to someone else trying to restore a Corvette from this era. I can’t imagine those are laying around in great quantities.
Nice to have the spare frame available.
Now just blink your eyes like Barbara Eden (I dream of Geni) and it will separate the body to replace the bad one.
One loves bargains where a mere 40 to 65 grand to put frame under and paint.
Then interior, wiring, engine rebuild, top and one is there.
Is it a #’s car? For that $ it should be. Pretty vague description and lack of pictures for someone who want’s that much $ for a project car.Money pit imo.
No way at this price. If it has a second frame that is being worked on then car probably needs it. Birdcage? I had a 300hp version of this car and I don’t think that shifter is original. Hard to see but should be straight with a reverse lockout. No engine pics, from Rust belt I would imagine this is a money pit.
The “birdcage” is specific to the 63-82 cars only.
This ’62 could have some restoration potential, but that weak ad certainly doesn’t prove it. Unfortunately, this Corvette will probably be bought by a hipster and become a Modo-Thingo.
The body fiberglass might be very nice. I like the hood and front bumper fit. The panel below the grill has been hit, but the rest of the body looks unmolested. The interior looks original (including the carpet!) except for the aftermarket shifter and tach. Of course you’re left to guess the condition of the hidden metal parts.
I’m assuming there’s a lot of rust damage in the chassis. The left rear bumper is starting to come apart. And the seller wouldn’t have acquired a replacement frame if it wasn’t needed. The car sits a couple of inches high, too.
Once again a seller has created an ad that inspires as many questions as it answers. A Pollyanna would say “maybe…”, but an experienced mechanic would say “probably not”. I’m way too old to start a project like this, but I can still dream.
Another dreamer
Looks to also have had flood damage..have plenty of cash..you will need it
Sellers needs to get real. Let me guess another Mecum couch appraiser.
I deleted what I was really thinking!
The “birdcage” is specific to the 63-82 cars only.
I would love to have a ‘58 – ‘62 C1, but they always manage to go way beyond my budget. It looks like die-cast is the best I can do…
Well… you could apply an additional $5,000 in parts and a few leisurely hours on Sunday afternoon to this ’62 and then you would have a car like this: https://www.ebay.com/itm/225597432882.
Not really. If you got this ’62 for $20,000, spent $60,000 on parts, and worked on it yourself for two years, it still wouldn’t be as nice as the red one.