1966 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible (LHD)
Result: PASSED IN
Specifications
| Engine | V8,327-cid |
|---|---|
| Gearbox | 4-Speed manual |
| Body Work | Convertible |
| Colour | Nassau Blue |
| Interior | Blue |
| Trim | Leather |
| Wheels | Cast Alloy |
| Brakes | Disc/Drum |
Description
The sensational new Sting Ray of 1963 was a major step forwards for the Corvette with a steel box-section chassis designed by Zora Arkus-Duntov clothed in stunning bodywork in either convertible or coupe form under the direction of Bill Mitchell, GM's new Head of Styling. Initially sold with the classic small-block 327-cid V8 with either manual or Powerglide automatic transmission, the Sting Ray was a big improvement on the road thanks to independent suspension all round and - from 1965 - the addition of Delco disc brakes on all four wheels.
By 1966, when this Vette was made, the basic 327-cid V8 breathed through a Holley four-barrel carburettor and put out 300bhp (while the new big-block 427 took much of the spotlight) while minor aesthetic changes included a new egg-crate grille and Corvette Sting Ray script added to the bonnet. The Sting Ray coupe was always outsold by the open version, with just 9,958 built in 1966 compared to 17,762 convertibles.
Although succeeding generations of Corvettes have become more technologically advanced and are now the equal of the best Europe has to offer, none has quite managed to capture the style, presence and driving pleasure of the original 1963-67 Sting Rays.
