Barn Bag: 1966 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible – Sold?

July 22, 2023, Update – We confirmed the listing for this “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found, we’re assuming this ride is “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

The holy grail for most classic car enthusiasts is coming across and having the ability to purchase a desirable barn find.  The seller of this red 1966 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible, last spotted in June 2023 on Craigslist in Clarion, Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh), hit the jackpot finding a red Mid Year ‘Vette convertible equipped with a four-speed.  Even better is that this car appears to be a nice, unmodified example, save for the non-original engine.

Last offered for $46,000, Classic.com, the analytics and search engine for the collector car market, confirms the ask is slightly below the one-year rolling average of this guide’s summary for first-generation Ford F-1 pickups produced between 1948 and 1952.  By clicking on the green dots in the graph below, you can navigate to each comparable car sold as a way to help you evaluate the price of the truck featured here:

As a second data point, the  Collector Car Market Review Online Tool reveals the seller’s ask falls between this guide’s #4 “Fair” estimate of $35,400 and its #3 “Good” appraisal of $52,500.

Chevrolet produced the stunning second-generation Corvette for the 1963 through 1967 model years. Chevrolet product planners initially forecast 1966 to be the final model year for the second-generation, Corvette, commonly referred to as the C2 or “Mid-Year” Corvette However, design delays in getting the third-generation Corvette ready for production forced the General Motors Division to offer the C2 one additional model year.  Known for its striking design, impressive performance, and open-top driving experience, the ’66 Corvette Convertible holds a special place in automotive history.

The exterior design of the 1966 Corvette Convertible exudes a classic and muscular presence. It features sharp lines, a long and sleek profile, and a distinctive fastback rear end. The body is constructed using lightweight fiberglass panels, making it lighter and more agile than its contemporaries. The front end showcases dual headlamps concealed behind flip-up covers, a signature styling element of this generation.

Chevrolet offered the C2 Corvette in fastback coupe or convertible body styles. The latter offered a convertible top that can be easily lowered or raised, providing the option for an open-air driving experience. The top is made of vinyl and comes in various colors to complement the car’s exterior paint options. When lowered, it stows away beneath a flush-fitting tonneau cover, preserving the sleek lines of the car. A fiberglass removable hardtop was a popular option.

Under the hood, the 1966 Corvette Convertible packs a potent powertrain. It is equipped with a range of engine options, including the base 327 cubic inch (5.4-liter) V8 engine, which produced 300 horsepower. However, Chevrolet offered several high-performance engine options for those seeking even more performance, including the famous 427 cubic inch (7.0-liter) V8 engine. This monstrous powerplant delivered a staggering 425 horsepower, propelling the Corvette from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) in just over 5 seconds.

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a standard 3-speed manual transmission, with an optional 4-speed manual or 2-speed Powerglide automatic transmission available. The Corvette’s refined suspension system, independent rear suspension, and precise steering contribute to its exceptional handling characteristics. The ’66 Corvette Convertible provides an exhilarating driving experience, combining power, agility, and responsiveness.

Inside the 1966 Corvette Convertible, you’ll find a driver-focused cockpit with a mix of sportiness and comfort. The seats are well-bolstered and can be upholstered in leather or vinyl, offering support during spirited driving. The dashboard features a combination of analog gauges and dials, providing the driver with essential information about speed, engine revs, fuel level, and more. Optional features included air conditioning, power windows, and an AM/FM radio.

The GM Heritage YouTube Channel features this 1966 Chevrolet Corvette commercial highlighting the availability of the “Kiddie Corvette” toy car at dealers that year:

The seller’s brief description of their 1966 Chevrolet Corvette convertible for sale has us asking more questions than it answers.  While the seller is transparent about their C2 not being a numbers-matching car, they neglect to mention what the car’s current V8 is.  From our perspective, the world is chock full of over-restored C2 Corvettes, so we hope the next caretaker does nothing more than clean up the car’s interior before getting out and enjoying the car.

If you are serious about buying this Corvette, you can start the conversation by following the seller’s contact instructions found in their Craigslist ad.  When you connect, please remember to mention you saw their Mid Year Convertible featured here on GuysWithRides.com. Good luck with the purchase!

Here’s the seller’s description:

Show or go: What would you do with this barn find 1966 Chevrolet C2 Corvette convertible for sale?  Please comment below and let us know!