Vehicle Description
When it comes to current automotive trends, nothing is hotter than
the pro-touring movement. The blending of vintage styling and
modern performance creates an undeniable appeal that has taken the
marketplace by storm. When the pro-touring treatment is performed
on something like a midyear Corvette, which already has a massive
following, the end result is a car that enthusiasts will wait in
line to buy. The demand for these cars is so strong that some
builds are even commanding dollar figures well beyond their
OEM-restored siblings. With its blend of classic C2 styling and
thoroughly modern underpinnings, this '64 Corvette coupe follows
the pro-touring formula perfectly. Every inch of this recently
completed build has been completely reworked to include a full
Jamison tube chassis, fuel injected big block, Tremec five-speed
manual transmission, modernized interior, and a killer sound system
to accompany you on the back roads. If you want a Corvette that
utilizes the best of the modern aftermarket to create an
unforgettable driving experience, take a number and a closer look
at this awesome coupe.
BODYWORK/TRIM
First impressions are important and this C2 makes one of the
strongest possible. Originally Ermine white with a blue interior,
the car now wears a brilliant code of bright red paint that better
suits its aggressive lines. The red paint is accented by a gloss
black Stinger, creating one of the most legendary looks in the
Corvette catalog. Since the goal was to create a head-turning
show-quality car, all the usual "perfectly imperfect" Corvette
ideology went right out the window in favor of creating a shell
that is better than new. The fiberglass body now features smooth
panels, impressive panel alignment and a profile that is nearly
seamless from certain angles.
The great thing about building a pro-touring Corvette is that the
aggressive look is already there. At the front of this C2, a
body-width stainless grille sits inside of show worthy stainless
trim which is bordered by two chrome-trimmed parking lights, and a
razor blade style chrome bumper. Above that grille, a later 1967
Stinger-style hood has been added and detailed with a gloss black
strip, fresh chrome trim, and black-inlayed '427' badges. Behind
the hood, like-new glass is cleared by bright stainless wipers and
framed by excellent looking stainless trim. Below, flared front
fenders offer two horizontal indentations for some classic midyear
styling. Pristine bowtie mirrors, correct chrome door handles,
shielded side pipes, and new "Fuel Injection" badging complete the
profile. At the back of the car, two centered reverse lamps combine
with four traditional Corvette tail lights to illuminate a chrome
trimmed tag bracket and two more pristine, razor blade style
bumpers.
ENGINE
Flip the Stinger hood forward and you'll find a 427cid crate engine
from GM Performance. Like the original 427, it features a cast iron
block and forged lightweight high-flow aluminum heads. Modern
touches from GM include a forged rotating assembly, 10.1:1
compression, and a high-lift hydraulic roller cam. Of course,
Corvettes are about taking things up a notch, so a F.A.S.T fuel
injection system has been added for some extra power and
reliability. The package is dressed with a simple black
Chevrolet-branded open element air cleaner which matches the black
427-branded valve covers well. Behind the air cleaner, where a
chrome ignition shield would normally live, a MSD distributor now
sends spark through red GM Performance wires. To the sides, spent
exhaust gases are expelled through polished headers which connect
to chambered side-exit exhaust for a race car-like exhaust note. At
the front, an aluminum radiator cools the big block with the
assistance of a single electric fan. Across from the radiator, an
alternator, Vintage Air compressor, and power steering pump all
spin off borrowed engine power. Turn the key and the modern mill
starts with ease, letting everyone around know a beast has been
awakened.
DRIVETRAIN/SUSPENSION
Take a look underneath this C2 and the true priorities of the build
come into focus. For starters, the factory frame has been replaced
by a satin black Jamison tube chassis. If you're not familiar with
the company, their frames have been used underneath some of the
most high-end pro-touring Corvettes we've carried including the
"killer wide body C2":
http://www.rkmotorscharlotte.com/sales/inventory/active#!/1967-Chevrolet-Corvette-Sting-Ray/133122
and the "sleek '59 roadster.":
http://www.rkmotorscharlotte.com/sales/inventory/sold#!/1959-Chevrolet-Corvette/133123
Around the rigid frame, the suspension mixes C4 Corvette components
with QA1 coilovers for a thoroughly modern driving experience. In
the center, a Tremec five-speed manual transmission with an
upgraded hydraulic clutch makes quick work of shifting with a firm
direct feel that a period-correct Muncie simply can't touch. To the
rear, a stock C4 differential puts the big block's power to the
pavement. Braking is provided by a four-wheel disc brake setup
which draws its power from the Wilwood master cylinder under the
hood. Steering is equally responsive thanks to a C4 rack and
pinion. At the corners, 17 and 18-inch Z06 Spyder wheels add some
late-model Corvette styling to the modernized chassis. A fresh set
of Yokohama S.drive high-performance tires connect the car to
road.
INTERIOR
Open the fiberglass doors and you'll find an interior that
continues the successful blending of classic and late-model
Corvette pieces. Seating comes courtesy of supportive C5 seats
wrapped In black leather while, between the seats, a classic C2
center console makes room for a chrome shifter and updated
five-speed shift pattern plate. From there, a modern armrest with
an aluminum-lined cup holder takes over the space. From the driver
seat, stock appearing gauges monitor fuel, battery output, speed,
revs, water temperature and oil pressure. To the right, a stock
analog clock fills in the upper portion of the center 'waterfall'
while modern air conditioning controls reside just below. The
stereo is definitely a focal point of the interior, consisting of
an iPod-controlled head unit by Oxygen Audio which sends signal to
speakers located in the kick panels as well as a custom Sonus panel
behind the seats that includes a small subwoofer. Under the fresh
black carpet, a layer of Stinger Roadkill sound deadener has been
installed to make sure you hear every note. From the door panels to
the headliner to the wood-rimmed three-spoke wheel, every bit of
the interior has received attention, making it a great place to
spend time.
This Corvette is ready to be driven, shown, and enjoyed in any way
you see fit. With a stout fuel-injected big block, modern Tremec
transmission, impressive chassis and healthy list of modern
amenities, the car is every bit as ready for a track day as it is a
trip to Dairy Queen. If you've been eyeing the pro-touring movement
and waiting for the right car, that car has arrived. But remember,
the clock is ticking...
SUMMARY
Frame off build
427cid GM Performance crate engine
F.A.S.T fuel injection
Tremec 5-speed manual
Jamison tube chassis
C4 Corvette suspension