1969 Chevrolet Corvette 427/390 Convertible with Hardtop

Why we picked it

This LeMans Blue 1969 Corvette convertible has the 427/390 L36 big-block, an automatic, power steering and brakes, and both the soft top and hardtop. It is listed by Gateway Classic Cars in Dearborn at $42,000 with 34,614 miles shown as true mileage unknown.

The seller says it has been in one family since 1969, has a clean history, and that the engine block number matches the VIN. Comparable automatic big-block convertibles have sold for roughly $48,000 to $65,000 this year, so this one is priced below the market if it checks out.

The value check

The seller is asking $50,000. Comparable cars in the same condition have sold for $45,000–$65,000, so the middle of the market is about $55,000. That put this car 9% under.

Recent sales of 1969 L36/L68 427 convertibles in driver condition, mostly automatics, ran $45,000 to $65,000 in 2026 (BaT, Mecum, GAA). At $42,000 the asking price is about 24% under the $55,000 midpoint.

Where the numbers come from:

• Mecum Aug 2026, L36 conv w/ HT, auto: $62,700
• BaT Sep 2026, L68 conv w/ HT, auto: $65,000
• GAA Jul 2026, L68 conv w/ HT, auto: $48,000
• BaT May 2026, L36 conv, manual: $45,000

What to check

• Gateway is a consignment dealer; the price excludes fees, and inspections are usually arranged by the buyer
• Confirm the block VIN stamp and broach marks, the engine suffix code and the trim tag; restamps are common on 427 cars
• Check the birdcage (windshield frame and rocker supports) and frame rails behind the rear wheels for rust
• Look for fiberglass stress cracks, poor bonding-strip repairs and paint over old damage
• Vacuum headlight and wiper door systems often leak or fail; test them
• Mileage is listed as unknown, so ask for any records from the original family

Making it drive like new

Keep the matching-numbers 427 and the original parts so the value stays intact. Bolt-on changes that can be undone work best here: a C4-style rear brake or a dual-piston caliper refresh, polyurethane or new rubber bushings, a modern radial tire package, an overdrive automatic swap with the TH400 saved, and electronic ignition hidden under the stock distributor cap.

8 builders make a complete chassis for the 1968–82 C3 Corvette. Compare them side by side, along with what it takes to stiffen the factory frame.