Vehicle Description
The Stingray was transformed in 1965 with the addition of big block
power, and in 1966 the 'Vette came with 427 cubic inches of
thunder. This pretty Sunfire Yellow roadster packs its
numbers-matching L72 427/425, which was the top engine in '66, plus
a 4-speed gearbox, and side pipes, making it the ideal mix of
beauty and beast. If you've been longing for a big block mid-year
'Vette, you shouldn't miss this one.
Restored to a high level a few years ago (it won an NCRS Top Flight
in 2014), this lovely Corvette proudly wears a big block hood and
side pipes, making it look intimidating even when it's standing
still. On the other hand, the soft Sunfire Yellow paint isn't at
all aggressive and gives it a more refined look overall.
Fortunately, the bodywork is in great shape because this is the
kind of car that's going to get a lot of scrutiny, with
factory-style gaps, flush-fitting headlight doors, and a nice shine
that looks just about right for something built five decades ago
(although the paint is obviously much newer than that). There's no
stinger on the hood, which didn't come until later, so even though
the hood's "power dome" is substantial, the car has a low-key look
that's ideal for its split personality. Bright chrome pieces,
proper emblems (check out how vivid the crossed-flags are on the
nose), and plenty of other details make it look quite authentic and
a lot nicer than many of its peers.
The "standard" black interior is completely new, including seat
covers, carpets, door panels, and all the other soft parts that
delight the eye when you climb inside. There's a bit of patina
that's actually quite appealing, but virtually no wear. The gauges
were restored and show crisp markings, bright needles, and clear
lenses, and the unusual vertically-oriented AM/FM radio still works
properly. Corvette fans will appreciate the shiny chrome shifter
that links to a 4-speed Muncie underneath and carpeted floor mats
protect the matching black carpets. Overhead there's a recent black
convertible top, but this Corvette also includes a rather rare
factory hardtop which has been fully restored and painted to match
the bodywork.
The L72 was the biggest, nastiest engine you could get in your
street Corvette in 1966, and with the way GM was playing games with
the numbers, who knows how much horsepower it really makes. 450 is
the number that gets thrown around a lot. Thanks to a 4-barrel
carburetor and a fairly significant camshaft, this matching-numbers
427 sure walks with a swagger and generates effortless performance.
The engine bay is nicely detailed with Chevy Orange on the engine,
an aluminum intake, and a correct open element air cleaner with
reproduction decals. Little things like the hose clamps and even
the hoses themselves are accurate reproductions, and aside from
some signs of use, it's pretty nice. Stock exhaust manifolds dump
into those barking side pipes, and a quick glance underneath will
reveal that the chassis is as nicely detailed as the rest of the
car. Correct knock-off wheels look great and carry 205/75/15
Michelin radials that ride and handle better than the original
bias-plys.
Documented with judging sheets, certificates, restoration photos,
manuals, and other paperwork, this is a very impressive Mid-Year
'Vette. Beautifully finished and ready to rock, this is the big
block roadster you've been looking for. Are you ready? Call
today!
