Corvettes for Sale: Running 1958 Corvette Barn Find on Facebook Marketplace

Oct 14, 2026

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Corvettes for Sale: 1958 Corvette Barn Find on Facebook Marketplace

Is a “running, driving” 1958 Corvette project worth $43,500?

That’s the question facing potential buyers of this classic C1 barn find currently being offered on Facebook Marketplace in Sacramento, California.

At first glance, there’s plenty to like about this vintage Corvette, especially the lovely blue shade of paint, abundance of chrome and unmistakable 1958 styling.

But take a closer look, and you’ll quickly realize this isn’t a car that’s going to win any trophies without some serious attention.

For starters, the paint is cracked, chipped and peeling in several large areas. Unless you’re a fan of the weathered survivor look, a complete repaint would seem to be in order.

And no, before somebody suggests it, those imperfections aren’t going to buff out.

Then there’s the convertible top.

Calling it a ragtop might be a little too generous. Judging from the photos, ragged top would be more appropriate.

The canvas is badly deteriorated and would need replacing before the new owner could confidently venture out in anything resembling bad weather.

Fortunately, the extensive chrome trim appears to have survived the years remarkably well, including the bumpers and distinctive dual trunk spears.

That’s especially important on a 1958 Corvette, a model remembered for its generous use of chrome and the introduction of quad headlights.

The interior also offers some encouragement.

Although it could certainly benefit from a thorough cleaning by someone like the folks at WD Detailing, the seats, door panels, dashboard and instruments appear reasonably complete. Small tears are visible in the seat upholstery, but nothing in the photos suggests a completely gutted interior.

Perhaps the biggest mystery, however, is what’s lurking under the hood.

One photo shows an air cleaner boldly proclaiming “400 B.H.P. 341 Cu. In.”

That’s certainly interesting, considering Chevrolet offered the 1958 Corvette with a 283 V8 producing anywhere from 230 to 290 horsepower, depending on the configuration.

So what’s going on here?

Has the original engine been replaced with something more powerful, or did a previous owner simply install an unusual air cleaner?

The seller doesn’t say.

We do know the Corvette has a manual transmission, although the listing doesn’t specify whether it’s a three-speed or four-speed.

The seller describes the car as a barn find and a running project, and a short video confirms that it does run, but prospective buyers would certainly want to verify its mechanical condition before making an offer.

The photos also reportedly include views of the underside, which could help determine whether the frame is as solid as the exterior suggests.

As for the $43,500 asking price, opinions are divided.

One commenter on Barn Finds believes the price is too high considering the restoration costs and uncertainty surrounding the engine.

Another enthusiast sees the potential for a terrific fair-weather cruiser, pointing out that asking prices are merely starting points for negotiations.

That’s a reasonable way to look at it.

After all, a 1958 Corvette doesn’t have to be a flawless, numbers-matching showpiece to provide plenty of enjoyment.

With its classic styling, striking blue paint and unmistakable C1 personality, this example would undoubtedly attract attention wherever it goes, even if it’s not perfect.