1968 CORVETTE CONVERTIBLE - L79 350hp, WEST COAST CAR WITH HISTORY & 53K MILES!

1968 Chevrolet Corvette Description

Matching #’s L79 4-Speed M21 Posi-Traction Transmission….SURVIVOR!

Factory Rally Red Exterior & Beautiful Red Interior – Original Paint

Extremely Original Example with Many Original Components – West Coast Car for 50 Years

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If the links don't open due to eBays program, they can be seen at our website classiccarsltd dotcom

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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 company. 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.

INTRODUCTION

This car is offered at a very 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 27+ years and enjoys an excellent national / international relationship with over 1,000 positive eBay feedback responses.

Please keep in mind that we will gladly…

• Answer any questions over the telephone and take the time to guide prospective customers through the buying process (925-846-1451).
• Assist with locating a quality, suitable transporter at very competitive prices.
• Provide proof that we are licensed, bonded (for the financial transaction), fully insured, and operate from an established showroom environment.
• 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)
• 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”!

Tripp White, Pres.
Classic Cars Ltd.
Pleasanton, CA
925-846-1451

C3 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 “Survivor” example is sure to continue to appreciate in the future. The value and uniqueness of this example is enhanced by it originality, numbers matching drive-line, and incredible West Coast history and condition. Major features of the car are:

• Factory original paint in Rally Red, Factory produced red interior, and original drive-line components
• Straight damage free body and excellent original trim
• Stock configured #’s matching L79 327c.i. / 350hp V8 engine
• 4-speed manual close-ratio transmission M21
• Posi-traction rear end
• Rally wheels w/ raised white letter black wall radial tires
• 1969 Corvette style side exhaust (not originally fitted to this car when produced) – Rear exhaust blank out plates (reportedly as a dealer option)
• Factory fitted AM/FM radio
• Original Owner’s Manual

HISTORY OF THIS PARTICULAR 1968 CORVETTE

The current owner of the Corvette who has had the car for over 4 years did the research to determine the previous ownership history on the car. The following represents his summary of the cars reported history of ownership since delivered in 1968 based on correspondence with previous caregivers. While some owners are deceased, it appears as if there have been a total of 4 previous owners including a dealer who held the car on display at his dealership for more than 15 years, from May, 2016 – September, 2016.

Owners report that the cars original owner acquired the car in Missouri and, shortly afterwards, brought the car to Oregon where it spent all of its life, less the last 4 years.

The original owner purchased the Corvette from Barford Chevrolet Co. as is documented on the notarized NCRS and owned the car from approximately 1968-1980 (reported mileage when sold = ~12,000mi.). He had the 1969 side exhaust and factory exhaust block off installed (original smog equipment is included). The NCRS document supports the production date of 5/20/1968 and is the basis for determining the numbers matching decoding contained later in the listing.

The original owner had the Corvette for about 12 years and sold it to Randy J. Mr. J. who owned the car from 1980-1982 with mileage when sold not noted) and eventually needed a down payment for a house, so he sold it a couple years later to his good friend, Duane W who owned the car for 6 years from 1983-1989. Mr.W. loved the car and was passionate about it. While he owned it, he had a new timing chain put in as it just stopped one day while sitting at a red light.

In 1983 he sold it to Richard R. who was a friend of both Mr. J. and Mr. W. Mr. R. who retained the car until 1989 (owned from 1989-2001 and sold with ~49K miles). He replaced the gas tank because the original leaked.

In June, 2001, Mr. R. sold the Corvette to Dick Morgan Wholesale who owned the car from June, 2001 – May, 2016); he confirmed that it still had the original paint, hard top, and original wheels (although not on the car). The hard top and wheels were lost while Dick Morgan Wholesale was in possession of the car. Mr. Morgan sold the car at auction to Motors Northwest in Tacoma in May, 2016 and noted mileage of 52,540 mi. The current owner acquired the car from the owner of Motors Northwest, Mr. JT C. and has put less than 200 miles on the car since his acquisition 4 years ago.

Shown in the listing are photos from 2nd and 4th owners, as well as pics from the dealer, along with his ad copy when he had the car listed for sale. Significant historical documents include:

– NCRS letter documenting deliver dealer, production date and VIN#

– Match book cover from the delivering dealer, Barford Chevrolet, Clayton, MO. including telephone # (No area code!) PArkview 5-3600

– Original owner’s manual (that frankly, is in such nice condition it is hard to believe it is original) with date code of 1/68 that corresponds with production / delivery date

FACTORY OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT

As follows:

A02 – Soft Ray Tinted Glass

C07 – Auxiliary Hardtop (for convertible) Note: Misplaced several years ago by a previous owner (refer to history)

G81- Posi-traction Rear Axle

K66 – Transistor Ignition System

L79 – 327ci, 350HP Engine

M21 – 4-speed manual transmission, close ratio

U79- AM-FM Radio, stereo

This was a classic example of a serious performance car “of the day” with a high horsepower engine and options designed to improve the cars performance without the addition of unnecessary, heavy items.

THE NUMBERS (Photos shown in listing)

The VIN from the driver’s side A-pillar is 194678S419770, decoded as follows:

1=Chevrolet Division

94=Body Series: Corvette

67=Convertible

8=1968

S=Assembled in St. Louis

19770 = production sequence; near end of production run in July-August 1968

The engine number is 78S419770, (Last 5 match VIN#)

L79 Engine is 327 cubic inch, 350 horsepower.

ENGINE CODE: V0509HT

11.0:1 compression. 5 main bearing, hydraulic Hi Lift cam,

V = Flint Engine Plant

05 = May

09 = 9th day

HT= 327, 4speed, 350hp, Rochester 4bbl, special cam

Other major components code as follows:

• Radiator PN 3155316 aluminum non A/C date code 68D (1968-April)
• Transmission Serial 78S419770, date code P8E13 (1968 May 13)
• Starter PN 1108361 date code E14 (1968 May 14)
• Rear Axle Carrier 2A043068W decodes to 2nd shift 3.70:1ratio, April 30, 1968, Warren Plant.

The trim tag on the driver’s side door post shows Trim 407 (red vinyl – now leather) and Paint 972 (Polar White)

MECHANICAL

Current and previous owners have provided the car with excellent care over the years and the underside and cleanliness of the engine support the attention the car has received. The Corvette has recently passed the required California safety inspection and benefited from a recent master cylinder, hoses, a complete oil service and new period style hose clamps

• Numbers matching L79 big block 427 cu. in./390 hp V8 engine; matches VIN number
• Stock manifolds / 1969-type side pipes
• Chrome air cleaner appears to be original with proper 327c.i. / 350hp label
• Correct Rochester Quadra-Jet carburetor
• Correct factory ignition shielding
• Chrome valve covers (aftermarket, originals would have been aluminum finned on L79)
• M21 4-speed manual close-ratio transmission
• Posi-traction rear end
• Stock 4-wheel disc brakes
• Headlights deploy properly, evenly and quickly via stock 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
• Clock operates, gauges display good readings
• Spare tire and original jack included

EXTERIOR

• Proper code 407 Rally Red exterior – original paint with the exception of very minor touch-ups
• No indication or history of body damage
• Standard soft top w/ good rear window – minor wear/tear on left side panel
• Originally equipped with optional hard top that was lost by previous owner
• Both doors, the hood and the rear deck open and close solidly with very good factory quality gaps
• Front bumper and rear bumperettes have no damage, minimal imperfections and reflect very nice “California quality.”
• Excellent grille
• Original side glass with “Astro Ventilation” markings and replacement windshield
• Radio antenna on left rear quarter
• Underside of car is very presentable; exhaust system and other components show very well and original

INTERIOR

• Beautiful red interior, largely original and in amazing “survivor” condition
• Original carpet covered by “vintage” clear mats
• Damage free dash pad, red e-brake console and red forward console
• Red sun visors
• Factory dated seat belts
• Very nice red door panels
• Both windows crank nicely
• Original sill plates
• Factory installed AM/FM
• The cargo area aft of the seats is excellent w/ original carpeting and 3 storage compartments/doors – some stains, but all original

OTHER

• Original Owner’s Manual (not a reproduction)
• Clear California title with current California registered through September, 2020 for California buyers
• California smog test not required for vehicles 1975 and older
• Passed the California required safety inspection for working wipers, turn signals, lights, brakes, etc.

CONDITION

The car is striking in its original factory produced color combination of “Rally Red” with red interior and a white convertible top, as built by the factory. The body is in fine shape with no signs or reports of previous or current body damage. There are the expected small chips and nicks, some of which have been touched up. Perhaps most important, the car has the large majority of its original paint and reflects the car by a limited # of owners during its lifetime (refer to “History” for details).

The trim is straight and complete. The bumpers are quite good with no dents and only a few scratches and reflect what we consider as the normal patina for an unrestored ’68 Vette. The glass is excellent including the side windows that carry the factory “Astro Ventilation” markings. The white, color coordinated soft top is structurally sound and goes up and down easily. A small tear is noted in the lower left side and can be seen in the photos. However, it is functional and we are told is original to the car. While the car was originally delivered with a factory hardtop. It was lost several years ago and is not available.

The entire interior including: seats, carpeting, dash pad, instrument panel, visors, seat belts, door panels, steering wheel/column and instrument panel show very well as supported by the photographs.

The chassis is in good condition with no signs of damage, rust through or accidents. It shows very well and is consistent with a car that has been well cared for, driven in clear weather and has low mileage. It is free from the significant corrosion that we have seen on other Corvettes that were put into service early in their lives and suffered from chassis and suspension rust and rot. The engine compartment is well maintained and shows well.

The odometer currently shows 52,664 miles and the owner, indicates is original. Judging from the condition of the body, undercarriage, engine and other factors, we would certainly not be surprised if this is original mileage. Of course, considering the age of the car, we must declare the mileage as TMU (Total Miles Unknown) as the history is not fully documented back to day one.

DRIVABILITY

The car drives every bit as good as it looks. It starts easily, idles with an aggressive but no obnoxious growl. It shifts without problems, has a clutch with proper engagement and no chatter, and runs cool even in our hot dessert climate. Steering is tight and the braking is positive with the 4-wheel discs. The emergency brake is functional. Of course, the L79 V8 coupled to the close-ratio M21 transmission and posi-traction rear end makes for very lively performance.

SPECIFICATIONS OF THE 1968 CORVETTE

• Wheelbase 0 inches
• Length 1 inches
• Width 2 inches
• Height 8 inches
• Curb weight 3,425 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
• i / 350 hp “L79” – 350 horsepower 360 lb-ft. torque

HISTORY OF THE THIRD GENERATION C3 CORVETTE

TheC3 Corvetteis asports car produced by theChevroletDivision of General Motorsfor the 1968 through 1982model years. It’s the third generation of theCorvette and the second generation of the Corvette Sting Ray. The C3 was patterned after the Mako Shark IIdesigned byLarry 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 ofMattel’s die-castHot Wheelsline 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 roundspeedometer and matchingtachometerwere positioned in front of the driver. Auxiliary gauges were clustered above the forward end of the console and includedoil 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-speedmanual transmissions. The 4-speed manual was available in M20 wide-ratio or M21close-ratio versions. The engine line-up included two small block 327 cu. in. versions including the desirable “L79”, the 350hp example.

The new seven-inch wide steel wheels had F70x15 nylon bias-ply tires standard with either white or red stripe tires optional.

Classic Cars Ltd.
925-846-1451

Specifications

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.

·We have been the same, small, California town for over 25 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.We strive to achieve 100% positive feedback 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 975+ 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 $50,000 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 are subject to sales tax, documentation fee, DMV transfer fees, and license and registration.Out of state buyers are responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle with any local fees, taxers, etc. being paid in their respective state.IMPORTANT NOTE: If the vehicle is delivered or driven in California, applicable California 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 and ask that you call us at 925-846-1451 if we can answer any questions about the vehicle, Classic Car Ltd, or shipping costs to your location.

·We encourage inspections by interested buyers 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.

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.

·We reserve the right to end the auction prior to the scheduled auction close date. We will be glad to discuss details of a "pre-auction" purchase (925) 846-1451.

·Inspections of vehicles are encouraged but (by appointment) must be completed within 24 hours of the end of the auction.

·Out of state buyers are responsible for the high bid and 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 and other transfer documents via Priority Mail.Larger items and parts will be shipped with the vehicle.

·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

Classic Cars Ltd.

925-846-1451n 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.