To fans of the Corvette, the exciting refinements of the mid-year design for 1965 offered real attraction back in the day, and modern collectors still find the third-year Sting Ray package very appealing. Four-wheel disc brakes were standard, and the heat-exhaust venting worked into the front fenders was now functional. Smoother lines on the hood and grille made the car more stylish. Cosmetically restored in 2017, the example being offered here is a beautiful vehicle equipped with an A.O. Smith body. With a detailed engine bay and underside, this convertible is being sold with its auxiliary hardtop included. The car showcases itself almost delicately in its correct eye-catching Goldwood Yellow exterior, augmented by a black soft-top and matched interior. However, any ideas of being domesticated disappear as the 327/365 HP V-8 engine comes to life. This is the solid-lifter version of Zora Arkus-Duntov’s legendary small-block, which features among its attributes the GM block casting number (3782870), head casting number (3782461), intake casting number (3844461) and even the No. 2818A carburetor under the chrome air cleaner. A fresh water pump and battery are among its more recent refinements. The high-winding engine is backed by a close-ratio Muncie 4-speed transmission and a 4.11:1 Positraction rear end. Other unique points of interest are the knock-off wheels with white-stripe tires, side-mounted exhaust pipes, Teakwood steering wheel and optional AM/FM radio with power antenna. The interior also features the redesigned cues for ’65, such as wide-padded bucket seats and molded door paneling with arm rests. Coupled with the first big-block models arriving at mid-year, many consider 1965 to be a pivotal season for America’s Sports Car. In terms of color, only Tuxedo Black came on fewer editions in 1965 than Goldwood Yellow, and the driveline options on this example make it a standout in terms of true street performance.
-Cosmetically restored 2017
-Detailed engine bay and underside
-Correct Goldwood Yellow exterior
-Auxiliary hardtop -Black soft top
-327/365 HP V-8 engine
-Close ratio 4-speed transmission
-4.11 Positraction rear end
-Teakwood steering wheel
-Knock-off wheels
-AM/FM radio with power antenna
-A.O. Smith body
-New battery
-Block casting no. 3782870
-Head casting no. 3782461
-Intake casting no. 3844461
