Documented red1968 corvette coupe originally 427/400 HP Tri-Power w/automatic

1968 Chevrolet Corvette Description

Fresh out of storage! I bought this car from my neighbor on Lake Michigan. He had stored this and two other corvettes for the past 34 Years in his barn. The car was put away and up on blocks until I purchased it.
I assumed it was a small block car given the hood but later learned it was a big block car after spotting the 5600 RPM Speedo. After we bought it, we were told he had grown tired of the poor gas mileage and traded the 427 for a small block to conserve fuel in the late 70's. We even have the name of the local shop that did the swap. Later we discovered the car had a single fuel line indicating a Holley Carburetor set-up which could only mean...Tri-Power!
As part of getting the car back on the road we replaced the gas tank and found the original tank sticker which confirms the L68 Tri-Power option. We also found the K66 transistor ignition option which was still installed on the car. For those of you who are unaware of 1968 production numbers, the 400HP Tri-Power option is the rarest engine option aside from the L-88. Furthermore, the M40 Automatic makes it rarer still. While many 390HP cars were optioned with automatics, very few Tri-Power cars came with the automatic. We are certain the transmission is the original TH400 to the car even though the engine is gone.
We have been preparing for a frame-off restoration for a couple months but given a difference in opinion, the wife has opted for an older model corvette. I have some exceptionally rare parts needed for a complete restoration. Depending upon the buyers plans, I can discuss. 1968 models have many one year only parts. I have a mint 68 BB hood with all the key hardware for the buyer that needs to restore the car correctly. I also have an ultra rare, rebuilt center Holley carb for a 400HP automatic car with the correct date code. Getting a late 1968 date code for this carb is impossible and its the key to NCRS judging on this car. Front and rear carbs with correct date codes are no problem.
The car runs and drives but isn't roadworthy. It needs new brakes after many years of storage.
BODY
The car had a previous accident at one point and the front clip was replaced. The firewall and bonding strips look fine. Although the front end is in great shape, its a 1970 front end. For you sticklers there are two routes for a restoration. One, replace the front clip with a 68 clip (I have an original clip available from an experienced source). Two, replace the fiberglass vents and front grills.
The car was repainted, probably as a result of the accident. The rest of the body is perfectly fine. Most importantly, there is no corrosion on the body, birdcage or frame. the car has been garaged its entire life and it shows. Not bad looking for barn fresh.
Windshield is replaced but all other glass is orginal.
Chrome bumpers and trim are all original and in great shape.
T-Tops are in perfect shape. seals, vinyl and trim are fine.
DRIVETRAIN
Wheels are clean original AG code ralleys with trim rings and caps (rings and caps are not on the rims in the photos).
Brakes rotors need replacing and calipers need rebuild
Spare Tire (see photo) - original ralley and redline still in place
BRAND NEW Radial TA's ($725)
Rear End Ratio 3.08:1Automatic M40 TH400427/400HP Tri-power L78 original, not with car350 2 Barrel passenger car engine currently in carK66 Transistorized Ignition still installed
Original BB Radiator and Core Support (68 only)
INTERIOR
Completely original vinyl interior, seats and carpet. Missing nothing. All trim pieces are intact and unripped.
Seats are original and need to be recovered.
Rear window storage tray is still with the car
We located most of the drivetrain and body parts we needed and are happy to share all the details. Auction results for 400HP/Automatic coupes are in the 60's even 70's with buyers fees. This car has the optioned drivetrain and color everyone wants. Red/Red is the only way to go.