Classic Car Controversy: Twin 1962 Chevrolet Corvettes Discovered With Identical VINs

An Unusual Discovery: Two 1962 Corvettes With One VIN

Imagine owning a meticulously maintained 1962 Chevrolet Corvette for over 15 years, only to uncover a dramatic twist in your automotive journey. This is exactly what happened to Dale Wilkinson in 2022 after moving to Florida, where he was shocked to learn that a duplicate of his classic Corvette—bearing the same Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)—was already registered in Texas.

Classic Corvette Ownership and the Legal Dilemma

Wilkinson had acquired his prized 1962 Corvette in 2006 and cherished it as a valuable collector’s car. However, the discovery of a clone in Texas led him to suspect foul play, believing someone had deliberately fabricated a copy of his car using a fraudulent VIN, jeopardizing the exclusivity and investment of his vintage ride. Taking legal action, Wilkinson sued the current owners of the Texas-based Corvette, arguing that the existence of this clone significantly diminishes the market value and collectability of his own vehicle.

Who Is Responsible for the Duplicate?

Interestingly, there is no evidence that the Texas couple who own the other '62 Corvette were involved in the creation of the duplicate. They maintain that they purchased their Corvette at Mecum Auctions in 2022 and have submitted proof of sale to the court. Wilkinson’s attorney, Stephen Gehringer, suspects the replica could have been crafted by a skilled professional who passed it off as an authentic classic before selling it at auction.

Expert Insights: Evaluating Authenticity and Value

A forensic automotive expert employed by Wilkinson scrutinized the Texas car’s VIN tag and determined it is a reproduction made from aluminum—unlike the factory-original steel tags. The font used was also identified as incorrect, further fueling the authenticity debate. If Wilkinson's car is not declared the original, its value could drop by as much as $110,000, a substantial loss for any classic car collector or Corvette enthusiast.

Performance, Design, and Collector Appeal

The 1962 Chevrolet Corvette stands as an icon of American automotive design, celebrated for its sleek lines, robust performance, and V8 powertrain. The Corvette’s legacy continues to drive high demand on the collector car market. Rarity and provenance are everything in the world of classic cars: a genuine VIN and documented history often command top dollar at vintage automotive auctions.

Market Position and Comparisons

Compared to other American sports cars of its era, the 1962 Corvette remains among the most desirable, delivering exceptional performance and timeless style. The unique scandal of two identical VINs threatens not only the reputations of the cars involved but also raises important questions about due diligence in classic car authentication and purchasing processes.

What Comes Next?

With both parties entering mediation ahead of a scheduled trial, the collector car world is watching closely. The outcome could set precedent for similar VIN disputes and reinforce the importance of rigorous vehicle verification, especially when considering high-value classic cars at auctions or in private sales.