1966 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray 427ci Convertible (C2)

Introduced in 1963, Chevrolet's sensational new Corvette Stingray (factory designation C2) represented a quantum leap for America's favourite sports car, both technically and in terms of its dramatic looks, and featured a new ladder-type chassis designed by Zora Arkus-Duntov combined with stunning bodywork penned by Larry Shinoda for Bill Mitchell's styling team. Initially sold with the classic 'small-block' 327ci V8 under the elegant bonnet, the C2 was a significant improvement over the earlier cars thanks to independent suspension all-round, the much stiffer box-section frame and, from 1965, the addition of Delco disc brakes at each corner. The list of drivetrain choices expanded to include a 396ci 'big-block' in 1965 followed by the legendary 427ci the following year along with an array of manual or automatic transmissions.

Cosmetic changes were remarkably few, a testament to Shinoda's original concept, and only minor alterations were made for 1966 including a new 'egg-crate' grille, new rocker-panel mouldings, chrome-plated exhaust bezels, a new wheel cover design and the 'Corvette Stingray' script added to the bonnet.

This delightful example dates from 1966 and is powered by the 427ci 'Turbo-Jet' V8 combined with a manual gearbox. Naturally, it's left-hand drive and is superbly presented in Nassau Blue with a white soft top and a classic black interior, all set off by chromed side-exit exhausts and C2 direct-bolt 'knockoff' wheels with narrow 'whitewalls'.

It arrived from the USA in 1989 and since then, the history file contains a complete timeline and a breakdown of the expenditure lavished on keeping this Corvette in the best possible condition and mechanical health. Much of the restoration work was carried out in 2004/5 by renowned Corvette specialists, Vette Dreams, and the file details extensive work including the Nassau Blue repaint and an engine rebuild by Tower Engineering of Clacton-on-Sea which included a reground crankshaft, all new bearings, fully balanced and a top-end rebuild with new exhaust valve seats. The history file contains multiple invoices covering the purchase of parts from marque specialists. Judging by earlier MOTs and recorded mileages, it appears that the car has only covered around three thousand miles since the restoration and still presents to a very high standard today. More recently, in 2022/3, the power steering assembly including all the belts was replaced ensuring that the driving experience of this very quick Corvette remains a pleasure. It was with its last owner for 15 years who so enjoyed the car that, having sold it once, he bought it back.

Although later generations of Corvette became more technologically advanced, none have quite managed to capture the style, presence and driving pleasure of the original 1963-67 Stingrays.