Sometimes it can be challenging to determine whether a classic hits the right note with enthusiasts. A car that ticks the right boxes for one person may leave others feeling cold. There are no such questions with this 1971 Corvette Stingray because it has already attracted an impressive 179 watchers since the seller listed it here on eBay. It is located in Maumee, Ohio, and although they set their BIN at $16,000, there is the option to make an offer. It is an unfinished project, and it will be fascinating to see whether we have readers tempted to take it on.

The seller supplies no complete exterior shots of this Corvette, but we can deduce plenty from what they provide and the listing text. I believe it is an unfinished project where someone has proceeded without due care and attention. They state that the shop that reassembled the car did a poor job, with none of its panels aligned correctly. The buyer needs to address this, but they face more significant hurdles. The Red gracing its panels may not be the car’s original shade because I see some evidence it may have been 1-of-2,465 ‘Vettes finished in Mulsanne Blue. It is probably irrelevant which color you prefer because the existing paint exhibits significant lifting. Stripping the fiberglass bare will be the best option if the new owner aims for a high-quality finish. If that proves the case, they can select the color of their choice, and if originality isn’t a key consideration, the world could be their oyster. We receive no information on the health of the frame or birdcage, but the lack of visible corrosion across various aspects of the vehicle gives cause for optimism. The glass looks fine, and the chrome is suitable for a high-end driver-grade restoration.

The seller indicates this Corvette retains its numbers-matching drivetrain, but it is unclear which version of the 350ci V8 hides under the hood. The odds suggest it should be the entry-level ZQ3 version, as only 1,949 buyers handed over the extra $483.00 for the LT-1 powerplant. This motor should produce 270hp, which finds its way to the road via the rear wheels and a four-speed manual transmission. Although it was the least potent ‘Vette offered in 1971, its ability to cover the ¼-mile in 15.3 seconds was still considered respectable. We receive no information on how this classic runs or drives, but the seller appears approachable and willing to answer questions.

This Corvette’s interior is a mix of old and new, but it appears it would take little to return it to a tidy state. The original owner selected Black leather upholstery, and while it has no rips or significant wear, it shows creases which are a characteristic of older leather. I think a specialist could condition the material to return it to its former glory without the cost of replacement. The carpet is new, and the seller includes a replacement for the broken console. The door trims and dash present well, but there is a non-genuine shifter and no radio. It isn’t loaded with luxury appointments like air conditioning or power windows, but the tilt/telescopic wheel allows the driver to tailor the driving position to their needs.

Returning this 1971 Corvette to its former glory won’t be for the fainthearted because the poor quality repaint means the buyer faces hours of stripping and sanding before reaching for the spray gun. For potential buyers, it is reassuring that the seller doesn’t sugarcoat its needs. That minimizes the chances the new owner will find they’ve bitten off more than they can chew. Chrome-bumper C3 Corvettes remain strong performers in the classic market, but is that enough for you to consider tackling this unfinished project?