1961 Chevrolet Biscayne 4-Door Sedan
11169J188036 | 21,700 miles | 327 V8 (350HP, period-correct but not original) | 700R4 Automatic | Teal Blue | Marion, IN
Original Listing
TL;DR Card
Grade:
Fair/driver
Fair-value Estimate:
$13,000 – $15,500
Condition Score:
6.8 / 10
Last Comparable Sale:
1962 Chevrolet Biscayne | $39,600
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Valuation & Past Auction:
Values for 1961–1963 Chevrolet Biscayne sedans and post cars range significantly based on configuration and condition, with highest numbers for 2-door performance builds or exceptional restorations ($36,000–$55,000). 4-door, modified, or driver-level examples typically fetch much less, especially when not original and carrying evident rust, as in this case. The severe trunk rust and need for metal repair (plus driver-grade paint and chrome) push this car toward the lower end of the fair/driver segment. While the upgraded V8/auto could boost appeal for some buyers, the lack of originality and body issues are definite market limiters. Based on the spectrum and discounting appropriately for these factors, the correct value range is just above a true project, but below truly nice driver examples. The car’s value is thus focused squarely in the lower mid-teens.
- 1962 Chevrolet Biscayne 2 Door Post sold for $39,600
- 1962 Chevrolet Biscayne sold for $19,800
- 1961 Chevrolet Biscayne 2 Door Post sold for $55,000
... and 4 more ...
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Condition:
This 1961 Chevrolet Biscayne stands out as a "sleeper" build, with a very presentable classic appearance and substantial upgrades to the engine and transmission for modern driving. The cosmetics are consistent with a well-kept driver—some paint defects, scuffs, and aged chrome add character but keep the car from being a showpiece. The interior is a highlight, with freshly replaced upholstery and panels that maintain an OEM- correct look and feel. The largest single issue is trunk rust—there is severe perforation and corrosion throughout the trunk floor and extensions, which require significant welding and fabrication to restore. All other rust appears surface-level on body panels, making this a structurally honest car but one that will need immediate attention to the trunk area to prevent further decay. For the enthusiast comfortable with welding/metal work, this is an exciting, drivable project that can be enjoyed as-is and fully restored over time. For buyers seeking a truly rust-free or fully original collector example, this car is best skipped in favor of a more intact or original survivor. Otherwise, the blend of mechanical upgrades and vintage authenticity makes this a well-priced entry point into 1960s Chevrolet ownership.
Work Needed:
The 1961 Chevrolet Biscayne 4-Door Sedan presents as a solid, upgrade-driven sleeper with an excellent running V8/automatic combination, but it suffers from serious trunk rust, aged brakes, worn chrome, and exterior paint flaws that compromise both reliability and appearance. The most pressing restoration work centers on addressing substantial rust-through in the trunk floor and extensions, improving braking system safety, tidying up the engine bay wiring, and replacing tires of unknown age. For a perfect restoration, deeper cosmetic and originality-focused work is required, including a full repaint, rechroming, drivetrain and engine backdating, and thorough mechanical and cosmetic detailing throughout.