Changes to the 1961 Chevy Corvette were minimal as the car entered its ninth year of the first generation. An all-new Corvette was underway for a 1963 debut, so the most noticeable change for ’61 was a new rear styling treatment featuring four taillights. The seller’s ’61 convertible may have had some work done, but it’s a big project for the next owner to tackle. Located on the back of a trailer (is the seller a flipper?), this ‘Vette is in Lexington, Virginia, and the opening bid of $10,000 has yet to be cast. That’s here on eBay, where a reserve is also in place.
The 283 cubic inch V8 was still the only powerplant offered in the Corvette in 1961. The 327 wouldn’t arrive until the following year. We’re told the seller’s car has a 283, but it’s not original and is rated at 230 hp with a T-10 4-speed manual transmission. No mention is made of the Chevy’s running condition, so we assume it is not. The front brakes have been converted to disc brakes, and there is a new “ws” (anyone know what that means?). Perhaps windshield?
According to the seller, the frame has been “done,” but the fiberglass body will need some attention. We’re told the doors are “wrong” (not ’61 doors?), and there is no top or deck lid (though we see one in the photos). As such, this is a DIY project, and the seller suggests it could be a good candidate to set up for vintage racing. Total Corvette production for the model year was just under 11,000 units.
Besides the rear styling update, other changes were minimal. An aluminum radiator was now standard. The dual exhaust was modified to exit from under the rear bumper instead of being integrated into said bumper. We don’t know how complete this Corvette is, but a lot of work and expenses lie in the buyer’s future. Do you think it’s worth saving?
My dad bought a brand new 1961 Corvette 283/315 FI and 6 months it was stolen from LaGuardia Airport in Queens NY. He recovered the car and put a 409 from a wrecked Impala, into it. He street raced it for many years and never lost. My dad died in 1968 and mom sold the car. I always wonder where that car is today……….
Probably stored away somewhere. I have a similar story. My mom and dad had a 61 Vette, white with gray coves. I have 2 black and white pictures of it. I was born in 64 and my first ever ride in a car was in that Corvette on moms lap when they brought me home. Dad traded the car 3 months later for a 62 Scout. I often wonder if it’s still alive tucked away 🤔