Going down the road with the AM-FM radio blasting the latest Led Zeppelin tune, no one knew this 1968 Corvette was a no-frills roadster.
But according to the tank sticker, the upgraded sound system was the only option on this bare-bones Stingray convertible that listed for just $4,372.75 – after the $172.75 U69 AM-FM radio was added to the base price of $4,320. That makes this Corvette, which is being offered on Bring a Trailer, one of just 326 Stingrays with the standard three-speed manual transmission. The overwhelming majority of customers in the debut year of the C3 chose either the close-ratio M21 four-speed manual (12,337) or the M20 four-speed manual (10,760) – both of which were $184.35 options. The Turbo Hydra-matic automatic was the choice in 5,063 cars, at a cost of $226.45. The remaining 80 cars were outfitted with the M22 heavy duty close-ratio four-speed manual ($263.30).
The lack of options certainly doesn’t make this Corvette any less beautiful, especially after a recoat in the gorgeous shade of International Blue back in 2012. At that same time, the suspension was rebuilt, and the gaskets and seals for the L30 327/300 horsepower V8 engine were replaced, along with the installation of an aluminum radiator.
Sadly, that sole option will need a new speaker to be useful for the new owner.
With the auction just getting cranked up, the high bid is just $4,200, but six days remain for that number to head skyward.
With most of these C3s now being used for pleasure cruises, will the lack of options really affect the enjoyment of this car? What do you think?
Source:
Bring a Trailer
Related:
Corvettes for Sale: No Reserve on this 1968 Corvette Convertible Offered on BaT
Corvettes for Sale: 1968 Corvette with an L71 427 V8 and a Great Stance
Corvettes for Sale: 1968 Corvette Convertible in Safari Yellow with a 427 V8
Subscribe Now:
Well, I don’t know exactly what to think about this one. While the 3 speed definitely makes it somewhat rare, I just can’t abide by a 3 speed Corvette.
Should have included a photo of the center console plate. About 15 years ago my brother once worked on a 3 speed manual C3 corvette owned by a customer. But I believe it was white. Quite a novelty. Best to leave it stock and take it to shows to display something different. There are plenty of other C3s around to modify for more performance and comfort.
Oops. The console plate photo is there. Must have scrolled down too fast.
Perfect, clean car for a restomod build. At least swap the 3 speed for a tremec 5 speed, and stroke that engine to a 500 horse 383 for about 5 grand. Nice car.
Comments are closed.