For its first three years, the Chevy Corvette didn’t excite the sports car-buying public. With 300 built in 1953, 3,640 in 1954, and 700 in 1955, the auto almost became extinct. Fortunately, there was enough faith in the car at the top to carry on. The 1956 model year brought new styling on the same frame and an uptick in power in the V8 engine (which had only been available since 1955). This ’56 ‘Vette is a project that’s waiting for someone else to finish it. The body and frame are said to be good, but you’ll need to source a powertrain to complete the work. Located in Sandy, Utah, this primed roller is available here on eBay for $38,000, cash and carry. Thanks again, Larry D!
The updates to the fourth-year Corvette (besides styling) included outside door handles, roll-up windows instead of side curtains, and adjustable passenger seating. The options list added power steering and a removable auxiliary hardtop that was (mostly) waterproof. The collective changes worked as sales increased to 3,467 convertibles, almost a record. They would continue to rise in 1957, 1958, etc. Gone was the “Blue Flame” inline-6, and the 265 cubic inch V8 produced at a minimum of 210 hp. A 4-speed was not in the cards yet, so buyers had to choose between a 3-speed manual or a 2-speed Powerglide.
We assume the seller is responsible for the work done so far on this Corvette. Running out of time or money is the usual reason that projects like this get stalled. We’re told it may be “the easiest builder you will find” with a lot of heavy lifting already behind it and a plethora of parts waiting to be installed, valued at $16,000. That doesn’t mean everything is there to finish the job. If it’s not in the photos, it’s not there.
No engine or transmission is part of the deal, though the seller does have a 350 and a Muncie M21 4-speed he/she will cut a separate deal on if you want them. The seller is even willing to install them before the car leaves the shop. If you’ve been wanting one of the “improved” C1 Corvettes to restore, this one could be off to a good start.
I would be stalled too if I paid the going in price for this stripped roller and a pile of parts.
I’m with Bob…. I’d love to have/finish it, but, it’s out of my league. I even already have an original 56, 265 engine and trans for it.
38K is a fair price based on what I see. One more thing, That seller knows how to create a good, informative eBay listing.
Look at the guys other listings on ebay – he’s selling other key items that you would need to complete the car properly – the convertible top frame, the gauges, the wiper setup and stabilizer bar… crap way to buy a car – maybe you win those items, maybe you don’t!
yea this seems to be a new way for sleazy sellers to squeeze more $$ out of the car by stripping it before selling it then offering up the parts you need.. I have even seen the car and original Mill separately sold. This is suppposed to be fun. take the eng out and hold it for ransom. Good luck.
cheers
GPC
For the asking price if this seller was on the up and up he’d be offering the completed car.
SOLD for 38K.