1968 Chevrolet Corvette 'Targa' 327 Coupe (LHD)

Description

The 1968 Corvette set a new annual sales record of 28,500 for the famous Chevrolet sports car. This was the first year for the third-generation model, which had been scheduled for the 1967 season, but was delayed by Zora Arkus-Duntov (‘Father of the Corvette’), who had been newly appointed as chief engineer of the sub-brand. This third-gen ’Vette was inspired by the mid-engined Mako Shark II (later known as the Manta Ray) designed by Larry Shinoda, under Bill Mitchell’s direction. Both the body and interior were completely redesigned. The chassis was carried over from the previous model, retaining the fully independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes. A three-speed Turbo-Hydramatic transmission superseded the old 2-speed Powerglide on the options list, while a 3-speed manual was standard. Very few cars were equipped with the entry level manual gearbox as buyers generally ticked the options box for either the slushbox or a four-speed (M20 wide-ratio, M21 close-ratio or M22 ‘Rock Crusher’). The entry level engine was the 327-cubic inch V8 making 300 brake horsepower. As before, there were coupe and convertible versions with the former now a notchback with a near-vertical removable rear window and T-top removable roof panels.  The door handles were flush with the top of the doors and employed a separate release button. The front mudguards incorporated functional engine cooling vents. There was no Stingray variant until the 1969 season.