1961 Chevrolet Corvette – SOLD at $69,000!

December 8th Update – We’re pleased to report this ’61 Corvette just found a new caretaker and is now sold!  This Corvette got away, but if you have your heart set on finding something similar, please feel free to call Rudy directly at (908) 295-7330.  If you have a Corvette you’d like to sell in an upcoming Reserved Parking Exclusives Auction, submit your application here. Thanks for looking!

In the C1 Corvette world, the unfortunate reality is most examples fall into two extremes:  most are now over-restored to the point the only driving they ever experience is when they’re moved from the owner’s garage to an enclosed trailer and back in between car shows, while others are driver quality, well-used and modified survivors that some might find a bit too worn to display at a car show.

GuysWithRides.com is pleased to offer the best of both worlds with this two-owner, 20,200 original mile, Roman Red, 283 cubic inch/270 horsepower “Dual Quad” survivor now available for the revised price of $65,900 out of a private collection located in Central New Jersey.

We rate this Corvette a strong #2 “Excellent” condition car, and a check of the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms the second owner has it priced between Hagerty’s #2 “Excellent” appraisal of $89,800 and the #3 “Good” estimate of $59,800 before factoring in premiums for the original Wonderbar radio and factory hardtop.

While a new style grille subtly replaced the prior’s toothed unit for 1961, the big news for the model year was the stylish new four tail lamp boat tail style rear end that would remain a Corvette design element through 1967.  The was the first year for the four tail light design, a design element theme that has carried on continuous even through the recently launch 2020 C8.

What’s noticeable on this example is just how flawless the chrome and paint are on this Corvette’s exterior. We could not find any chrome pitting or other paint flaws as we photographed this C1.  Be sure to check out the original Pennsylvania DOT from 1961 still intact in the driver’s side window.

For 1961 Chevrolet offered five different versions of the small block 283 cubic inch engine.  This Corvette features the “CU” code  270 horsepower, mechanical lifter version topped with dual four barrel carbureted version, more casually known as the “dual quad” intake.  Fitted with a four-speed manual and a 3:70:1 rear axle ratio, the original owner of this Corvette likely had a desire to go very fast, one quarter mile at a time in this C1.  While not detailed to the NCRS Top Flite standard, that’s okay because this engine is said to be dialed in and ready for cruising.

The matching red vinyl interior presents as new with two sets of floor mats: one pair that are original to the car and another for when driving the car.  In addition to a newer convertible top and a factory hardtop (not shown), this Corvette features not, but two, snap on vinyl tonneau covers:  one in white and the other in red.  This is a unique period-correct aftermarket piece that is becoming increasing rare as restorers elect to remove the snaps when they re-do the car.  This serves as further subtle proof of just how original this Corvette remains.

We note that the manual top had been folded prior to our arrival and thus explains the wrinkles when we raised it.  The condition of the top is like new and just needs an hour or two raised in the sun to remove the wrinkles.

All of the trunk carpeting and factory supplied floor mats are in place along with the spare tire and jack components as well as the aforementioned twin tonneau covers.

The standard full-size wheels covers with simulated spinners are original to this car appear to be in like-new condition with no scraping present.  The wide whitewalls are period correct for this 1961 vintage Corvette.

While not available for viewing during our photography session, this Corvette comes complete with full documentation.  If you’re looking for a low-mileage, survivor grade C1 Corvette in the right colors that you can actually take out and experience what it was like to drive a new Corvette circa 1961, then this is car for you.  Thank you for looking and good luck with the purchase!