1971 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray T-Top C3 (Big Block)

The iconic Chevrolet Corvette (named after a small, manoeuvrable warship) has now been in production for eight generations with enormous pedigree and style. The first model was a convertible penned by designer Harley Earl and was introduced in 1953 at the GM Motorama as a concept show car. The C2 Corvette, which followed was produced between 1963 and 1967 and it is, perhaps, this car that is most entrenched in American automotive history with its dramatic styling, deeply scalloped side panels and the evocative Sting Ray model name. The C3 arrived in 1968 with a slight name change to Stingray although it closely followed the design of the Mako Shark II concept car. The new C3 displayed a number of innovative features including vacuum operation of the headlights, a shield to conceal the wipers when not in use and 17 inch wheels as standard. The chassis, fully independent suspension and disc brakes were carried over from the C2 and the car was offered with a choice of engine sizes and 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic gearboxes.

This fabulous 3rd-Generation Corvette is fitted with the ultra-desirable, big-block 454ci engine that produced 365bhp/ 460lbs ft when new. It's resplendent in Bridgehampton Blue enhanced by eye-catching chrome side-exit exhausts, chrome grilles and huge chromed Turbine wheels. The car was the subject of a long-term, no compromise restoration taking around ten years and at a cost approaching £60,000 some years ago. It's accompanied by a substantial history file with photographic records of the restoration, numerous MOTs and an very rare 1971 brochure of the model. Since being restored, it has been in the hands of its last two keepers for some years and used and enjoyed extensively being driven across the UK and Europe, attending many rallies and events and always drawing admiring glances. The car features an easily removable Targa Top, stored inside comfortably, the fit and finish of which reaffirms the quality of its restoration. There is none of the tugging, levering or fighting required on many examples, simply drop the handle and the panels slide out to reveal the wonderful interior.

The Corvette has become widely known as America's Sports Car and has become synonymous with freedom and adventure, ultimately becoming both the most successful concept car in history and the most popular sports car in history and it's not hard to see why, with the deep burble of that confidence-inspiring V8, the wind in your hair, the sun reflecting off the gleaming Bridgehampton Blue bonnet along with the feeling of being in control of one of the most evocative pieces of automobile Americana ever.

Everyone needs a Vette in their life for a couple of summers, and we can't think of a better opportunity.