Stunning Transformation: 1968 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible

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While it was essentially “business as usual” below the skin when Chevrolet introduced the C3 Corvette, the styling captured the public’s imagination. It wasn’t merely a domestic phenomenon because the C3 remains one of the most recognizable cars globally. This 1968 Convertible may look tired in this shot, but a concerted effort by the owner in 2020 transformed it into a genuinely stunning classic. With the work complete, this ‘Vette needs a new home. Therefore, you will find it listed here on eBay in Polo, Illinois. Intense bidding has pushed the price to $25,100, although it remains below the reserve.

Wow! This Corvette received an NCRS Second Flight Award in 2018 and has since received its cosmetic refresh. The seller achieved something genuinely stunning in 2020 when they coated its faultless fiberglass with beautiful British Green paint. This shade was the most popular in the 1968 color palette, barely edging out LeMans Blue with figures of 4,779 versus 4,722. It is hard to criticize its appearance, from the rich paint shine to the White Convertible top and the sparkling chrome and trim. It is tempting to use the word “perfect,” but I’m sure an in-person inspection will uncover the occasional chip or mark. The top fits tightly, and a matching factory hardtop is included for those seeking all-weather protection. The Rally wheels and their hardware are in as-new condition, with the redline tires adding a perfect finishing touch.

The original owner ordered this Corvette powered by the entry-level L30 version of Chevrolet’s 327ci V8. The term “entry-level” can be deceptive because it still placed 300hp under the driver’s right foot. They increased the car’s mechanical flexibility and performance potential by ignoring the three-speed manual transmission and selecting the four-speed unit. There was no genuinely slow version of the 1968 Corvette, and this car graphically demonstrates that. Considering the engine choice, it should still romp through the ¼-mile in 14.7 seconds. There were faster vehicles both within the ‘Vette range and offered by other manufacturers, but buyers needed to order a ’68 AMC AMX Go-Package with a 390/4-speed drivetrain combination to slip behind the wheel of a faster American two-seater. However, while the AMX may have been quicker down the strip, it couldn’t live with the Corvette when the pedal hit the metal. The Corvette could wind its way to 131mph, but the AMX ran out of breath at 110mph. This classic is numbers-matching, and its mechanical health is excellent. The seller says it runs and drives well, making it a turnkey classic needing nothing but a new owner.

When an owner lists a classic of this caliber, it is disappointing when they fail to supply decent photos of any vehicle aspect. That is the story with this Corvette’s interior, although piecing together the provided photos paints a positive picture. It features Black vinyl upholstery that appears perfect. There are no signs of visible wear or other problems, although an in-person inspection is required for confirmation. The damage-prone areas of the console look better than average, and the gauge lenses are clear. I’m unsure whether it features such touches as power windows, but the original owner equipped it with air conditioning and an AM/FM radio.

Regular readers will know I tend to lean towards classics wearing the Blue Oval, but that doesn’t mean I am biased. I appreciate cars like this 1968 Corvette Convertible and would not hesitate to park it in my garage if the circumstances were right. Its presentation is hard to fault, and it is easy to see why the C3 became a legend. I am not alone in my thinking because a bidding war has erupted as passionate enthusiasts attempt to become this car’s new owner. It has attracted forty-three bids from fourteen people who like what they see. Are you tempted to become the fifteenth person to stake a claim? If you do, I hope you succeed.

Auctions Ending Soon

Comments

  1. timothy r herrod

    Was the AM/FM standard in corvettes? I don’t think I have ever seen a C3 up without one.

    Like 0
    • ACZ

      Yes. Actually, prior to that, 63-67 had either an AM/FM or a signal seeker AM. My 63 coupe was the first car I ever had with an FM radio.

      Like 1
  2. Frank Sumatra

    I believe the 1968 choices were AM-FM and AM-FM Stereo.

    Like 4
  3. Steve

    It’s a shame they didn’t put the same level of finish into the engine compartment. That takes it down a notch for me.

    Like 3
  4. Claudio

    A topless corvette of this vintage is quite a beautiful machine but i cannot deal with the green outside and beige inside , the lemans blue with matching interior would be my choice

    Like 0
  5. George Mattar

    Funny you never see green vehicles anymore. Just boring gray and black. Yuck. In 1967, Goodwood Green was the most popular Corvette color. And again in 1968. Nice car here you can drive with today’s crappy gasoline.

    Like 0
  6. Craig Baloga Craig Baloga

    Beautiful first gen C3…..$25k is a great entry point, for sure.

    Like 0

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