1959 Chevrolet Corvette – Nearly 50 Years of Single-Owner History
I purchased this 1959 Chevrolet Corvette in 1977 when I was 19 years old, and I have owned it continuously ever since. After nearly 50 years of ownership, I have decided it is time for someone else to take over the next chapter of this Corvette's life and bring it back to the road.
The vintage photograph included with the listing was taken in the summer of 1985 and shows me with the Corvette when I was 27 years old. I have included it because this isn't a recently acquired project car being resold. This Corvette has been part of my life since 1977.
Current condition
The Corvette is being sold as a non-running restoration project. It has not been started or driven in more than 10 years, and I have made no attempt to start the engine after its long period of storage.
The photographs were taken recently and intentionally show the car as it currently sits. The paint and exterior finish have considerable age and deterioration. The interior needs restoration, the carpeting and upholstery have deteriorated, and the mechanical systems will need to be inspected and serviced or rebuilt before the car is returned to the road.
This is not being represented as a running or driving automobile.
At the same time, the Corvette remains remarkably complete. Much of the exterior trim, bumpers, grille, gauges, dashboard, seats, door panels, interior hardware and other components remain with the car.
Chevrolet 302 V8
The original 1959 Corvette engine has been replaced with a Chevrolet 302-cubic-inch small-block V8 believed to date from the 1967–1969 period.
The Chevrolet 302 is particularly associated with the first-generation Camaro Z/28 and is itself a desirable period Chevrolet performance engine.
I have attempted to locate the engine identification stamping on the front block deck, but no readable numbers are currently visible. It is possible the block was decked during a previous rebuild. I have not removed or disassembled the engine to investigate it further.
Therefore, while I am representing the engine as a Chevrolet 302 believed to be from the 1967–1969 period, I am not representing it as an authenticated or numbers-matching Z/28 engine. Its original vehicle application has not been verified.
The engine has also not been started in more than 10 years and should be inspected before anyone attempts to run it.
An excellent restoration candidate
This Corvette could be approached in several different ways. It could be completely restored toward its original 1959 configuration, built as a period-style Corvette with the 302, or used as the foundation for a high-quality restomod.
I have deliberately not attempted a cosmetic restoration or extensive detailing before offering it for sale. I would rather allow the next owner to see the Corvette honestly and determine the direction of the restoration.
Serious buyers are welcome to inspect the car and its components before purchase. Additional detailed photographs can be provided upon request.
After owning this Corvette since I was 19 years old, I would like to see it go to someone who appreciates what it is and is ready to give it the next chapter it deserves.
Asking $39,900 OBO.
