1968 CORVETTE 427c.i. - #'s MATCH - FACT. HARDTOP - NEW INTERIOR & MECHANICALS

Chevrolet Corvette 1968 Description

1968 Chevrolet Corvette C3REVISED, LOWER RESERVE! 1968 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible Big Block w/ 4-Speed Close-Ratio Transmission Polar White Exterior w/ Beautiful New Red Interior & Factory Hardtop A Matching Numbers Car w/ Extensive Recent Documented Maintenance __________________________ PLEASE NOTE: THIS VEHICLE IS BEING LISTED AS A RESULT OF A "BUYER" WHO DID NOT SATISFY HIS OBLIGATION. PLEASE CONTACT US IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS PRIOR TO BIDDING AND WE WILL BE GLAD TO HELP. THANK YOU, CLASSIC CARS LTD. 925-846-1451 NOTE: Our listings are rather lengthy. They not only describe this particular car but also some history of the make/model, considerations in buying a classic car and facts about our firm. However, we continually hear from out of state / out of country buyers (many of our clients) that they prefer the level of detail that we provide. However, if you are not prepared to read the full listing, please read the OVERVIEW below along with viewing the PHOTOGRAPHS at the bottom. If you'd prefer, please call us at 925-846-1451 and we'll gladly discuss the Corvette and answer any questions over the telephone, including our "Buy it Now" policy. Yes, the Corvette can be purchased prior to the end of the eBay auction. PHOTOGRAPHS PLEASE NOTE: EACH TIME WE LIST A VEHICLE ON EBAY WE RECIEVE COMMENTS THAT THERE ARE NO PHOTOS OF THE INTERIOR, ENGINE, UNDERCARRIAGE, ETC. OF THE CAR. THERE ARE CLOSE TO 100 PHOTOS OF ALL AREAS OF THIS CORVETTE, BUT WHEN YOU REACH WHAT APPEARS TO BE THE LAST PHOTO, YOU WILL NEED TO SCROLL DOWN ON eBay TO VIEW THE REMAINING PHOTOS. IF YOU ARE STILL UNABLE TO SEE THEM, PLEASE CALL US AT 925-846-1451 AND WE WILL PROVIDE A DIRECT LINK. NOTE: IT IS A VIOLATION OF EBAY POLICY FOR US TO LIST THE URL ON THE EBAY LISTING. PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU WOULD LIKE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS OF ANY PART OF THE CORVETTE. ALL OF OUR PHOTOS ARE TAKEN IN NATURAL LIGHT AND WE DO NOT "PHOTO-SHOP" OR TOUCH-UP THE PHOTOS IN ANY WAY. ALSO, IN THIS CASE WE HAVE TWO LISTINGS ON OUR WEBSITE FOR THE CORVETTE. ONE SHOWS THE EXTERIOR, INTERIOR, ENGINE & UNDERCARRIAGE AND THE OTHER SHOWS RESTORATION PHOTOS. TO VIEW THESE PHOTOS, GOOGLE CLASSIC CARS LTD. PLEASANTON, CA AND GO INTO "FEATURED CARS" (RED FLASHING ICON) AT THE TOP OF THE HOME PAGE. INTRODUCTION This car is offered at a realistic price and, unlike bidding on cars in an auction environment, you will have the benefit of extensive information and history on the car prior to making a buying decision. Equally as important is the fact that Classic Cars Ltd. has been in business for 21+ years and enjoys an excellent national / international relationship with over 820 positive eBay feedback responses. Please keep in mind that we will gladly... 1. Answer any questions over the telephone and take the time to guide prospective customers through the buying process (925-846-1451). 2. Assist with locating a quality, suitable transporter at very competitive prices. 3. Provide proof that we are licensed, bonded (for the financial transaction), fully insured, and operate from an established showroom environment. 4. Provide feedback from previous buyers, and specific references for vehicle purchases in your area (we also ask that you view our detailed eBay feedback by clicking on the number to the right of the eBay user name) 5. Offer additional information including specific photographs or clarification of any part of our description of the vehicle Thank you again, please let me know if I can be of assistance. Happy "eBaying"! Paul R. Wankle, Pres. Classic Cars Ltd. Pleasanton, CA 925-846-1451 OVERVIEW-THIS PARTICULAR 1968 CORVETTE CONVERTIBLE This 1968 Corvette Convertible represents the very first year of the third generation C3 Corvettes. The value of C3's has been on the increase in recent times and this fine example is sure to appreciate in the near term. Its value is further enhanced by the desirable high performance of the big block engine coupled to the 4-speed close ratio manual transmission. Major features of the car are: - Stock L36 big block 427 cu. in./390 hp V8 engine - 4-speed manual close-ratio transmission - Posi-traction rear end - Rally wheels w/ raised white letter black wall radial tires - 1969-type side exhaust - Rear luggage rack - After-market hood that allows removal of the troublesome vacuum door over the windshield wipers - Optional factory hard top - Polar White exterior - Beautiful red interior w/ nearly all new components including leather seats - Working AM/FM radio; working quartz movement clock - Original Owner's Manual - Original tank sticker (off car) - Large file of shop receipts totaling about $21, 00 (all in the past 1000 miles) - Many removed stock parts provided (hood, wiper vacuum door, power steering, intake manifold, etc.) DETAILS-THIS PARTICULAR 1968 CORVETTE CONVERTIBLE While we would not term this car a "survivor", all owners have resisted the temptation to significantly modify and modernize it. However, extensive funds have been spent in the recent years to freshen the mechanicals plus restore/replace critical cosmetic items. It is now completely ready to drive, show and enjoy without fear of significant problems. HISTORY OF THIS PARTICULAR CAR The car was originally sold on the East Coast, probably in Virginia. After being driven a few tens of thousand miles as new, it became a show car in a Virginia Chevrolet dealer's show room for 13 years. It was subsequently bought by a Virginian who had come into some unexpected money which he invested in several classic cars. A copy of the Virginia title from 2002 shows 44, 14 miles. The current owner purchased it from this individual in 2002 and had it shipped by enclosed carrier to Northern California. It has been little driven since (mostly to nearby shows), with the current odometer reading at only 44, 00. However, this owner has put an incredible amount into maintenance and cosmetic restoration of the car as detailed below. OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT The original tank sticker was removed during recent installation of a new gas tank and is provided with the car. A small portion of the sticker center has been torn out and is missing. The "date received" on the tank sticker is 06-13-68. The car was delivered with the following optional equipment: - Soft-ray tinted glass, all windows A01 - Auxiliary hardtop C07 - Posi-traction rear axle, 3.08 ratio, G81 - 427 cu. in./390 hp engine L36 - 4-speed manual close-ratio transmission M21 - Power steering N40 (has been removed but components are included) - AM/FM radio U69 - Red stripe tires PT6 (now black walls w/ raised white letters) THE NUMBERS The VIN from the driver's side A-pillar is 194678S424411, decoded as follows: 1=Chevrolet Division 94=Body Series: Corvette 67=Convertible 8=1968 S=Assembled in St. Louis, MO 424411=production sequence; near end of production run in July-August 1968 The engine number is T0602IL18S424411, decoded as follows: T=Tonawanda, NY IL=427 ci/390 hp, manual transmission 24411=production sequence; matching the VIN number The trim tag on the driver's side door post shows Trim 407 (red vinyl--now leather) and Paint 972 (Polar White) MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENTS An incredible amount of parts and labor has been put into the car by the present owner, all in the past 1000 miles. A summary of the major items is given below beginning with the most recent. 09/2014 44, 30 miles $872 - New speedometer gear - Oil and filter - New QFT-HR-780-VS carburetor; adjust - New NGK spark plugs - New proper AC/Delco battery 03/2008-New red sun visors 11-12/2007 $12, 38 Professional Corvette restoration shop, Al Knoch - New Al Knoch red leather seat covers w/ new foam - New Al Knoch red carpeting throughout w/ sound deadener/heat barrier installed underneath - New red dash pad, red e-brake console, and red forward console - Re-chromed interior trim - New red seat belts - New sill plates - New windshield - New A-pillar weatherstrip - New inside rear view mirror - New instrument wiring harness w/ new bulbs and fuses - New windshield wiper motor and solenoid - New quartz movement in stock clock - New AM/FM radio and speakers - New fuel tank - New fuel sending unit - New tachometer cable - New distributor w/ ignitor, new coil - New front brake calipers, rotors, pads 06/2006 44, 41 miles $4, 98 - New oil pan - New oil pump - New rear main seal - New valve springs and seals - New thermostat - New valve cover gaskets - Re-cored heater - New coolant recovery tank - New pinion seal; new differential fluid - New speedometer cable 05/2006 $2, 15 - New Sanderson headers - New 2 ½ inch Flowmaster X-pipe 11/2005-New fan clutch 02/2005-New alternator 01/2003 44, 79 miles $1, 02 - New ignition wires - New brake hoses - New starter MECHANICAL - Stock L36 big block 427 cu. in./390 hp V8 engine; matches VIN number - New headers, 2 ½ inch exhaust, 1969-type side pipes - New carburetor w/ Edelbrock Torker II intake manifold - New distributor and coil - New alternator - Chrome valve covers - Chrome air cleaner; improper horsepower sticker on top - Stock static shielding is missing (common) - 4-speed manual close-ratio transmission - 3.08:1 ratio posi-traction rear end - Stock 4-wheel disc brakes - Headlights deploy properly via vacuum motor - Wipers work - Rally wheels w/ proper Chevrolet Motor Division center caps and proper beauty rings - BF Goodrich Radial T/A raised white letter tires; front P245/60SR15 w/ 8/32" tread; rear P275/60SR15 w/ 5/32" tread; older but in good shape - New AC/Delco battery - Functional quartz clock; all gauges work - Spare tire and tub have been removed and are not available EXTERIOR - Proper code 972 Polar White exterior; professionally repainted years ago - Standard soft top w/ good rear window - Optional hard top; interior "headlining" needs freshening, glass is excellent, all trim pieces and latches in place - Optional rear deck luggage rack - The problematic vacuum-operated windshield wiper door has been removed and an after-market hood installed that nicely covers this area aft of the stock hood - Both doors, the hood and the rear deck open and close smartly - Front bumper and rear bumperettes have no dents, few scratches and good chrome - Good grille - No scuff damage under the nose - All glass is excellent - Radio antenna on left rear quarter - Underside of car is very presentable; exhaust system is shiny as new INTERIOR - Beautiful Al Knoch red leather seats w/ new foam - New Al Knoch red carpeting throughout w/ sound/thermal barrier underneath - New red dash pad, red e-brake console and red forward console - New red sun visors - New red seat belts - Very nice red door panels - Both windows crank nicely - New sill plates - Repainted steering column - New quartz clock movement - New radio and speakers - New clear vinyl floor mats - The cargo area aft of the seats is excellent w/ new carpeting and 3 refurbished storage compartments/doors - The engine compartment is nicely detailed/maintained INCLUDED SPARE PARTS - Original dash pad - Original rear compartment door assembly - Original door sills - 2 extra rally wheel center caps - Original Harrison radiator coolant reservoir (plastic replacement in car) - Fly wheel dust cover - Original seat backs - Original Winters aluminum intake manifold - Original windshield A-pillar trim - Original power steering pump and brackets - Original inside rear view mirror mounting bracket - Original sun visors - New Old Stock (NOS) 1968 tail light lenses (1 year only lenses) - After market distributor - After market Hurst shifter - Original press-molded big block hood w/ brackets - Original complete windshield wiper door assembly and trim (vacuum operated) - Original pair of rocker mouldings; removed for side exhaust OTHER - Original Owner's Manual - Original tank sticker - Comprehensive file of maintenance receipts for the last 13 years - Clear California title with current California registration through January 2016, license no. 4ZDN878 - California smog test not required for vehicles 1975 and older - Passed the California required safety inspection for working wipers, turn signals, lights, brakes, etc. - Fabric cockpit cover - Fire extinguisher in rear compartment CONDITION The car was professionally appraised 10 years and very few miles ago and a copy will be provided with the sale. The body is in fine shape with only one area of very minor high quality repair on the lower left front valence (apparent only when viewing the backside). The hood is an after-market version that is longer at the rear. The paint is a very good older professional re-spray with only minor defects. There are some fiberglass stress cracks on the front fenders and rear deck corners. The trim is good with only minor pitting. The bumpers are quite good with no dents and only a few scratches. All glass is good. The window whiskers, window seals and door seals are good. The soft top is somewhat yellowed, but is very usable and the rear window is clear and flexible. The entire interior including seats, carpeting, dash pad, instrument panel, visors, seat belts, door panels, steering wheel/column and instrument panel are excellent. The red interior contrasts nicely with the white exterior. The chassis is in good condition with older undercoating, minor surface corrosion, and does not show any evidence of prior frame or corrosion damage. It does not show the corrosion characteristics of many an Eastern U.S. car. The engine compartment is well maintained and shows well. The odometer currently shows 44, 00 miles. Judging by the shop receipts covering the past 13 years and the known 13 previous years of dealership display, it is possible that this mileage is actual. However, it must be termed "total mileage unknown", since it cannot be clearly verified. DRIVABILITY The car drives every bit as good as it looks. It starts easily, idles with a ready-to-pounce growl, shifts smartly, has a smooth clutch, tracks straight, and does not overheat. Steering is tight and the braking is positive with the 4-wheel discs. The emergency brake is fully functional. Of course, the L36 big block V8 coupled to the close-ratio transmission and posi-traction rear end makes for very lively performance. SPECIFICATIONS OF THE 1968 CORVETTE - Wheelbase 98.0 inches - Length 182.1 inches - Width 69.2 inches - Height 47.8 inches - Curb weight 3, 25 lb. - Front suspension-independent, upper & lower A-arms, tubular hydraulic shocks, anti-roll bar - Rear suspension-independent, lateral leaf spring, struts, U-joint half shafts, trailing arms, tubular hydraulic shocks - Brakes-front & rear 11.75 inch discs - 427 c.i./390 hp big block-one 4 barrel carb, 390 hp @ 5400 rpm, 460 lb-ft torque @ 3600 rpm HISTORY OF THE THIRD GENERATION C3 CORVETTE The C3 Corvette is a sports car produced by the Chevrolet Division of General Motors for the 1968 through 1982 model years. It's the third generation of the Corvette and the second generation of the Corvette Sting Ray. The C3 was patterned after the Mako Shark II designed by Larry Shinoda in early 1964. It was adapted for production on the existing Sting Ray chassis with the lower half of the car much like the Mako II, except for softer contours. The concept car's name was later changed to Manta Ray. The "Shark" has the distinction of being introduced to the motoring public in an unorthodox-and unintended-fashion. GM had tried their best to keep the appearance of the upcoming car a secret, but the release of Mattel's die-cast Hot Wheels line several weeks before the C3's unveiling had a certain version of particular interest to Corvette fans: the "Custom Corvette", a GM-authorized model of the 1968 Corvette. For 1968, both the Corvette body and interior were completely redesigned. As before, the car was available in either coupe or convertible models. A soft folding top was included with convertibles, while an auxiliary hardtop with a glass rear window was offered at additional cost. The new body's concealed headlights moved into position via a vacuum operated system rather than electrically rotated as on the previous generation, and the new hide-away windshield wipers utilized a vacuum door. The door handles were flush with the top of the doors with a separate release button. Front fenders had functional engine cooling vents. Side vent windows were eliminated from all models, replaced with "Astro Ventilation", a fresh air circulation system. In the cabin, a large round speedometer and matching tachometer were positioned in front of the driver. Auxiliary gauges were clustered above the forward end of the console and included oil pressure, water temperature, ammeter, fuel gauge, and an analog clock. A fiber-optic system appeared on the console that monitored exterior lights and there was no glove box. The battery was relocated from the engine area to one of three compartments behind the seats to improve weight distribution. All cars ordered with a radio continued to be fitted with chrome-plated ignition shielding covering the distributor. to reduce interference. The chassis was carried over from the C2 models, retaining the fully independent suspension (with minor revisions) and the four-wheel disc brake system. The engine line-up and horsepower ratings were also carried over from the previous year as were the 3 and 4-speed manual transmissions. The 4-speed manual was available in M20 wide-ratio or M21 close-ratio versions. The engine line-up included two small block 327 cu. in. versions plus four variants of the 427 cu. in. (7.0 L) big-block V8, that taken together made up nearly half the cars. First of the big blocks was the L36, a 390 hp version with a single 4-barrel carburetor. All big block cars had domed hoods for additional engine clearance with twin simulated vents and "427" emblems on either side of the dome. The new seven-inch wide steel wheels had F70x15 nylon bias-ply tires standard with either white or red stripe tires optional. PURCHASING A COLLECTOR VEHICLE - THINGS TO CONSIDER As always, we recommend that you carefully review the seller's background for any collector car being sold over the Internet. It is important to ask yourself a number of questions including, but not limited to: - How long have they been in business? - How much experience do they have with collector cars? - How many positive collector car vehicle sales have they completed (positive eBay feedback)? - How detailed/complete is the description of the vehicle? - Do the photos show details of the interior, exterior, top, chrome, etc. or are they simply "glamour shots" taken from a distance? - Does the seller have a Surety Bond to protect the financial transaction? - What about insurance, licensing by the state, and a local business license? - Does the seller (if a business) have any DMV (Motor Vehicle) complaints and/or other history of legal action, grievances? - Does the seller enjoy a favorable local and national/international reputation? - Can the seller assist with funding sources, transport and out of state/country sales? ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD. - Classic Cars Ltd. has been in the same, small, California town for over 20 years. We operate a small "brick & mortar", indoor showroom, and specialize in the sale, consignment, and purchase of sports, high performance and specialty vehicles of all types. We have a particular interest in sports cars and unique vehicles. - The majority of our vehicles come from local, private owners and collectors, and many were sold new in California. We appreciate that rust free cars, with excellent documentation and history are especially attractive to our buyers both locally, and around the country. As a result, we do not purchase our collectible cars from "distressed" sales, such as wholesale auctions, salvage sales, or lien sales. We do not sell vehicles with salvage titles, or those that have a history of significant accident damage or repair. We have sold hundreds of unique, classic and collectible vehicles and regularly deal with buyers that have not had the experience of purchasing a large (both physically and monetarily) item on eBay, or through an Internet source. Our eBay feedback is 100% positive on all vehicle sales from customers around the globe and is a reflection of our commitment to accurate, complete, and thorough vehicle descriptions. - We have been shipping vehicles for years and have established excellent contacts that are not only high quality but very price competitive. We do not use brokers, terminal shipping or other discount methods. Call us or email for a quote directly to your home or office. We are often able to obtain quality enclosed transportation (the kind of travel this car deserves) for the cost of open shipping. - Please review our feedback on eBay (user name Never22Many) representing over 820 positive transactions to buyers all over the United States / World. - We are fully insured, bonded, and licensed for collector car sales all over the United States/World. - Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50, 00 Surety bond to cover financial transactions - We frequently sell vehicles to out of State / out of country buyers, and will be glad to provide references for buyers in your area. MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL INFORMATION - As with virtually all collector/specialty vehicles, we find that parts and resources are readily available for this (and most every vehicle), thanks in large part to the Internet. - In addition to the purchase price of the vehicle, California buyers will be subject to sales tax, a documentation fee, DMV transfer fees and license/registration. Out-of-state buyers will be responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle and any local taxes/fees will be the purchaser's responsibility to pay in their respective state. IMPORTANT NOTE: If the vehicle is delivered or driven in California and driven on California roads, sales-tax, license/registration and transfer fees will be assessed per California law. - While we encourage telephone calls to discuss this vehicle in greater detail we will not respond to inquiries asking "What is the reserve". Also, if you would prefer that we call you to answer any questions about the vehicle; shipping alternatives, etc. please e-mail us with your telephone number and will gladly get back in touch with you. - We encourage inspections of this Corvette by serious, qualified individuals or professional inspectors. Please call at 925-846-1451 to arrange a convenient time. - As with any collectible vehicle of this vintage we are unable to provide a warranty or guarantee of condition. However, we make every effort to accurately represent our vehicles, and highlight both positive items as well as areas that require attention. We ask that prospective buyers consider our eBay history/feedback, standing in the community, length of time in business, and other factors when purchasing a collectible vehicle from Classic Cars Ltd. - Minor cosmetic issues/flaws may be present on every vehicle (regardless of cost) including small chips, nicks, scratches, etc. that can be seen on even the best restoration, or even a relatively new, used "pre-owned" vehicle. Also, ownership of a collectible / specialty vehicle is more enjoyable if the owner is familiar with the "realities" of these unique cars. Unlike more modern day vehicles, these cars require regular, ongoing care/maintenance and some mechanical knowledge, patience, and understanding can make the experience considerably more pleasant. That said, collector / "specialty" car owners will tell you (emphatically) that they love their cars and wouldn't trade them for anything!! - The information contained in this description is believed to be accurate but, in some instances, has been provided by the car's owner / owners or outside sources. As a result, we are unable to guarantee the accuracy of the information. We encourage verification of "numbers" and significant data prior to the purchase of any collector vehicle that you are considering. Classic Cars Ltd. 925-846-1451 Specifications: Body Type / Style:Convertible Exterior Color:Polar White Interior Color:Red Engine:V8 Transmission: 4 Speed Manual Mileage:44600 Drive:Rear Doors:2 Equipment: 4-Wheel Disc BrakesCustom Headers & ExhaustExcellent DocumentationExempt From Smog in CaliforniaFactory AM RadioFactory Bucket SeatsFactory GaugesFactory In-Dash TachometerFront Rubber MatsFull InstrumentationHeater / DefrosterHidden HeadlightsLeather Seats Matching Numbers EngineMuncie 4 Speed-M20New CarpetNew InteriorNew Interior (seats)Original Owners ManualPosi-TractionRebuilt EngineRepair HistoryRepair ReceiptsSEE DESCRIPTION.....Seat Belts (Front)Sway Bars (Front & Rear) No Damage to CHrome "Header" No Damage to CHrome "Header" Perfect! No Convertible Top Damage "Cockpit" Cover Not Fastened to Prevent Damage No Rips or Tears VERY Strong 427c.i. Estimated at 500~ HP Incorrect Sticker - Orig. 390hp Terms & Conditions Buyers outside of California will be responsible for a $195.00 fee for processing/administration. The charge will apply if the vehicle is purchased through ebay or before or after the auction, directly through Classic Cars Ltd. The vehicle is listed for sale elsewhere. We reserve the right to end the auction at anytime. We will be glad to discuss details of a "pre-auction" purchase (925) 846 1451. Inspections of vehicles are encouraged but (by appointment only) must be completed within 24 hours of the end of the auction. Out of state buyers are responsible for the high bid and any shipping costs. California buyers are subject to the appropriate sales tax, DMV transfer, and fees associated with the purchase of any used vehicle sale in the state of California. To avoid shipping the title with the car to our out of state buyers, we mail the title via Priority Mail. While shipping and transportation costs (if appropriate) are the responsibility of the winning bidder, we can assist with locating a suitable transporter. We regularly ship cars all over the USA/World, and can often times locate very competitive rates for transporting vehicles door to door, to a local terminal, enclosed, open, etc. Please call us for specific information/rates to your location. We meet some great people and fellow enthusiasts, and only rarely do we have problems with non-paying bidders. Please be certain that you are prepared to buy the car if you bid, or call us at 925-846-1451 before the end of the auction if we can answer any questions. If you have a "sunglass" rating or fewer than 10 feedback ratings on eBay, please call us before you bid so that we can discuss the bidding process, etc. If we do not hear from you, we reserve the right to delete your bid. Thank You & Happy Bidding Classic Cars Ltd.

On May-15-15 at 00:16:41 PDT, seller added the following information:

Sellers: Get your own map of past buyers. Fast. Simple.