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Original Survivor: 1966 Chevrolet Corvette

Until recently, this 1966 Corvette had spent 32-years in storage. It has now been revived, and the current owner is using the vehicle for weekend outings. It isn’t perfect, but it is an original survivor. There is no doubt that it would benefit from some cosmetic restoration work, but none of this would appear to be urgent. The Corvette is located in Lake George, New York, and has been listed for sale here on eBay. If bidding action counts for anything, then there are a few people who find this classic to be an attractive proposition. There have been 39 bids submitted up to this point. This has pushed the price along to $50,000, and the reserve has been met.

From a distance, this Silver Pearl ‘Vette looks quite tidy. However, when you get closer, you begin to realize that the paint is showing some marked deterioration. It is still presentable, but a meticulous owner would undoubtedly want to treat this classic to a fresh coat of paint. There is also some minor damage to the fiberglass in a couple of spots, but this is all repairable. The external trim and chrome are acceptable for a driver-quality car, while there are no signs of any problems with the glass. The owner supplies a good collection of photos, including some clear shots of the Corvette’s underside. There is a light dusting of surface corrosion in a few spots, but no penetrating rust. Whipping the frame into shape would be an easy task, and could be a project to tackle during the upcoming Winter months.

The Corvette is a numbers-matching car and features the L79 version of the venerable 327ci V8. This packs 350hp, which finds its way to the rear wheels via a 4-speed manual transmission. This package should be capable of launching the vehicle down the ¼ mile in 14.2 seconds, and on to a top speed of 149mph. After sitting for 32-years, this classic needed some work to return it to a roadworthy state. The owner chose to pull the engine and replace all of the seals. While the engine was out, the engine bay was detailed, and a new clutch was fitted. Also, there is a new radiator and water pump. The brakes have been gone through, and a new master cylinder was installed. Add a new fuel tank and sending unit, and this is a car that is in sound mechanical health. The owner does use the Corvette regularly, which suggests that it now runs and drives well. For those individuals who are concerned about originality, all of the removed components are included in the sale.

The owner states that the Corvette’s interior is original, but I’m not convinced by that. The tag indicates Trim Code 437. That should be White and Black vinyl. I can see plenty of Black, but no evidence of any White trim. Regardless of this fact, the upholstery and trim appear to be in good condition. The carpet under the driver’s feet is showing some wear, and a new carpet set would provide a noticeable lift. The buyer will find a vehicle that is equipped with the original AM/FM radio and a Teakwood wheel. It’s a bit hard to be sure in the photos, but I think that the original owner also ordered the car with the telescopic wheel option.

It isn’t perfect, but the buyer of this 1966 Corvette will potentially find themselves owning a classic that can be driven any time with a relaxed attitude. With the paint in its current state, there will be no real stress when it comes to the question of stone-chips and other minor damage. However, I suspect that the next owner of this car might be very tempted to treat it to some cosmetic restoration work. It would seem that it would take little effort to have this beauty shining once again. Of course, that isn’t compulsory. This is a classic car that is sure to capture plenty of attention, regardless. That’s not a bad thing.

Comments

  1. Nevada1/2rack Nevadahalfrack Member

    Well written, Adam-this is a car that deserves to be set free again. Drive it, enjoy it and if you’re a serious driver it will reward you with more SPG (Smiles Per Gallon) than some mega million Trailer Queen On the Green.

    Like 14
    • Rick

      This would be a nice one, and it has the desirable 327 – 350hp with high performance hydraulic cam that doesn’t need to have the valves adjusted regularly like on the solid lifter camshafts.

      Like 4
  2. 86_Vette_Convertible

    From what I can see, the frame looks to be very solid which is good. The one picture shows what looks to be a crack around one of the wheelwells, which will take some repairs. Other than that, the rest looks like it will be cleanup and minor work, which is good. I’d take it and park it in my garage if I had room.

    Like 4
    • RayT

      Judging by the number (and amount) of bids, a lot of people agree with you!

      So do I. Too rich for me, but just about exactly the way I would have ordered one back in the day. I also would have thrown on a set of American Torq Thrusts and blackwalls….

      Like 6
      • 427Turbojet 427Turbojet Member

        I love the look of torque thrusts on these. Mine has 15 X 7s and is lowered about 2″ all around. 215/70/15 tires are about as much as you can go for clearance, but don’t rub, even on somewhat aggressive cornering. This
        car doesn’t have telescopic column or teak wheel, standard walnut grained plastic wheel.

        Like 0
  3. Jon

    I owned a 66 in 76. 327 300hp with glide. And mine had the telescoping wheel. This one does not.

    Like 0
  4. ruxvette

    This is a nice bare bones car…no PS, PB, or PW. With the light damage to the fender and the bad paint I think $50k is ALL there is…and that’s not a real bargain.
    Certainly a nice driver while ya fix ‘er.

    Like 0
  5. TimM

    Great looking car to just get in and drive and the price seems to be reflecting that!!

    Like 0
  6. Casey A Member

    not a teak wheel. just the standard plastic wheel that looks like wood.

    Like 0
  7. Sidepipes

    The article indicates the interior code is 437. 437 is the body style, in this case a coupe. The eBay listing shows the trim tag which indicates the body style and that it came with the standard interior (black vinyl).
    The L79 is a wonderful engine but even with that under the hood, as noted above, fifty large is all this baby is worth. (imho)

    Like 0

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