No Reserve Convertible: 1968 Chevrolet Corvette
Well, we’ve had no shortage of ’68 Chevrolet Corvettes here on BF that’s for sure. I think some of the focus has to do with the fact that 1968 marked the introduction of the Mako Shark-influenced C3 series (’68-’82). It was the longest-running Corvette series and was extremely popular. Arguably, it saw the most changes from introduction to conclusion likely due to both its length of run and evolving governmental regulations. Today’s find is a convertible body style, the one that I prefer, so let’s investigate and see what has transpired over the previous 55 years. Located in Mocksville, North Carolina, this “not a Stingray” is available, here on eBay for a current no reserve bid of $17,300 with seventeen bids tendered so far.
While the C2 Corvette (’63-’67) used the “Sting Ray” moniker, the C3 combined it into one word, “Stingray” commencing in ’69. For ’68? Nope, no reference. Regardless, the lack of that famous model designation didn’t hurt sales as Chevrolet launched over 28K ‘Vettes from their St. Louis assembly plant that year. As for body style preference, the convertible bested the coupe by an almost two-to-one margin.
Our subject car stands out, initially, thanks to its wire wheels – I must admit that this is the first C3 I recall seeing so adorned. The finish, which doesn’t appear to be an original shade, though it is similar to ’68’s “International Blue” presents well – it’s not high luster but it does have some depth. The images don’t reveal any fiberglass cracks or seam separation so the body appears to be good to go. The folding convertible top is in fine shape and I’ll run with the assumption that a removable hardtop is not included.
Inside we find a standard Corvette environment that is in excellent shape – so much so that I would suggest that the seats have been reupholstered. Nothing appears to be in need of attention and the only no original item would seem to be the AM/FM/8-Track radio and attached equalizer – changes added long ago I would imagine. This is an A/C-equipped convertible but there’s no word regarding its operational capability.
There is no discussion about running and driving characteristics so that remains an unknown. The engine is listed as a 327 CI V8, the last year for its use in a Corvette, and judging from its appearance it appears to be the standard 300 HP version. It’s attached to a Turbo-Hydramatic 400, three-speed automatic transmission, ’68 being the first year for its employment in a ‘Vette. If the 62K mileage recording is accurate, this small block has a lot of life left to live; if not, well, it obviously depends on the true reading.
I have read different analyses of C3s by model year and it seems that the ’68s get dinked for excessive rattles and squeaking, notable birdcage rust, and electrical problems with the rear harness. True or not, I don’t know but it would be interesting to hear from current or former owners regarding their 1968 Corvette experience. On the surface, this ‘Vette seems like a pretty reasonable buy. My thought is that a car of this nature really needs a four-speed manual transmission (a three was still standard in ’68) but 55 years later, many today may not agree. How about you, what would your preference be?
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Comments
Too much blue ! I love the rims ! Love it’s a convertible !
Don’t care for that blue interior
Big Al.. I agree.. way too much blue. If it had white interior or black that would be nice. I like the basket rims on it. I had them on my 76 Monte. To bad it’s a automatic. The 4 speed would of made that 327 sound sweet. Otherwise very nice looking Vette. Good luck to the next owner.. 🐻🇺🇸
Love the color and agree the wheels really set it off. Nice one.
I was not big on automatic transmissions in a Vette and I certainly thought that the turbo hydramatic 400 was set aside for big blocks and 350 for small blocks,. Anyway one thing I think I am pretty certain on is that the 68 was shy of a kangaroo pouch and was introduced in 69. I not ready to go to court on that one, but I have been around these beasts since I was 14, now 75. Best regards.
All automatic trans ‘68 Vettes use the husky turbo 400. The powerglide two speed was dropped for 68. (thank god!)
This thing just sold on BAT for $28k this is a quick flip
What he said. BAT listing states this one was purchased by a woman in 1970 and then inherited by her son in 2018. Colorado car. Interesting to see a quick flip just two weeks later now moved to the East Coast with a no reserve auction?
A chick’s car. Automatic, wire wheels and very blue. Can I still use the moniker “chick”, or does that make me sound insensitive?
My wife sold our car which had this same color and exact equipment in 1976 while we lived in Littleton, Colorado. It was a terrific cruiser back then. Makes me wonder if this might be the same car.
I think they will lose money on this flip. C3s are a dime a dozen. At 17k it’s about at top dollar already for a no docs not original car.
If this just sold for 28K, then the seller is going to holding onto it for a long while, or taking a huge loss.
Flipper aside, I really do like this car. Although I’m the guy who would never even consider a Vette with an automatic, coupled with the base smooth running 327, factory AC, wire wheels (those are the real deal, not baskets) narrow Highway tires, etc……. You never see a C2 set up like this one, this is a very elegant looking example, would be a great top down cruiser.
Sweet Vette, love to hear it run it has glass packs.
BEAUTIFUL!! Too blue? NOT! Did this colour scheme to a Camero and she stood out VERY WELL. Too bad about the auto tyranny, really needs that four speed matched to that engine. Oh well, maybe find this one again at some point and fix that slight problem. Overpriced? Pretty high price but all things considered…..it is 2023. Would have loved to have found it before the hammer fell.
You will have another shot. Will be back on BaT in a week or two.
This was a flip auction. This vette was just purchased for $27,750.
So the listing will be pulled before losing money as a “no reserve” auction!
This is very strange. I own this car. I did sell it on Bring a Trailer a few weeks back but the buyer Lucas Tensor, had no intention of actually going through with the purchase. I am waiting to relist the car now. How/who put this on eBay is a mystery. Someone trying to fleece a new buyer?
And by the way Jim O, that is the correct color for that car in 1968- Lemans Blue #976. Trim code is #414.
This has been taken down for fraud.
The car still shows up here:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/374883173264?
I am working to send another request to take this one down. Hopefully it will go away before someone gets scammed.