Which Engine? 1966 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe

If you owned a classic as potentially valuable as this 1966 Corvette, would you strive for originality in its refurbishment? Or, would the lure of bolting a more powerful lump of iron under the hood be too tempting to resist? The new owner can have the best of both worlds because they can choose between the numbers-matching unit and a period-correct upgrade offering improved performance. The ‘Vette is listed here on eBay in Walker, Louisiana. Bidding sits at $30,650, although it remains short of the reserve. Those wishing to bypass the auction process might consider hitting the BIN button at $45,000.

The Corvette represents an unfinished project, but one with plenty of positive attributes. The seller states that the front clip is original, and there is no history of accident damage with this classic. The previous owner prepared the panels for a repaint, and the buyer can choose their shade. The ‘Vette rolled off the line covered in stunning Mosport Green, a color offered exclusively in that model year. It was also one of the rarer choices, with only 2,311 buyers selecting it. The car looks incomplete, but the seller assures us that the missing trim and chrome components have merely been removed for the prep work and are included. The tinted glass looks good, but the best news could reveal itself when we look at the underside shots. This Corvette has split its life between California and Texas. Both climates preserve classic steel, so the presence of nothing beyond the occasional spot of surface corrosion on the frame is no surprise. I would probably treat it to prevent deterioration, but that isn’t an urgent need.

This Corvette isn’t numbers-matching, but that isn’t the end of the world. The seller indicates that its four-speed manual transmission and rear end are original. While this engine is of 1966 vintage, it wears aluminum heads and headers. An aluminum radiator keeps it cool, and the combination should allow the car to cover the ¼ mile in a time below the original package’s 14.7 seconds. The seller doesn’t state how well the vehicle runs or drives, but the engine bay presentation looks promising. There is a slice of excellent news for the purists among you. The numbers-matching small block is included in the sale. It appears to be missing its exhaust manifolds and carburetor. Still, it gives the new owner the option of completing this project as a faithful restoration that would maximize the return on their investment.

Assessing the overall condition of the Corvette’s interior is pretty straightforward. The carpet is worn and faded, so spending $310 on a new carpet set would be a sound investment. The wheel isn’t original, and purists may elect to hunt for the correct item. Otherwise, it seems to need little beyond a thorough clean. The upholstered surfaces look excellent, while the same is true of the dash and pad. It isn’t dripping with factory options, but it is also free from aftermarket additions. The original owner selected power windows and an AM /FM radio, and both features are intact.

Fully restored to the highest standard, this 1966 Corvette Coupe would command a value beyond $75,000 any day of the week. If the restorer achieves perfection, that figure climbs past $90,000. That leaves us with that original question to ponder. Should the new owner leave the upgraded V8 under the hood, or should they return the car to its numbers-matching status? If I were the successful bidder, I would compromise by enjoying the existing motor, at least as a short-term option. I would choose a later date to refit the original 327, possibly waiting until I was on the verge of selling the car. That may be the best way to protect it as an investment while enjoying all it offers immediately. Do you agree?