I have often wondered whether there is such a thing as the perfect classic. That is, is there a car that features so many desirable attributes that it is seemingly impossible to criticize? This 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe could be a contender for that crown. From its sparkling paint to its leather trim, it ticks many of the right boxes. However, the first owner’s decision to order this ‘Vette with the legendary “Fuelie” V8 under the hood could be the icing on the cake. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this motoring gem listed here on eBay in Lake Ozark, Missouri. The seller set their price at $92,500 with the option to make an offer.

Of the nine paint shades offered by Chevrolet to 1965 Corvette buyers, Silver Pearl was selected by 2,552. That placed it around the middle of the pack, but well short of Nassau Blue, with a tally of 6,022. Faulting this Coupe is seemingly impossible. The paint holds a mirror shine, cloaking panels with no cracks or other physical damage. The seller confirms that the frame and birdcage are rust-free, and the tinted glass looks crystal clear. The aluminum knock-off wheels with their Goldline tires add to the visual appeal, although it is unclear whether this ‘Vette is 1-of-1,116 cars featuring the factory alloys, or if these are reproductions.

The 1965 model year was one of enormous transition for the C2 Corvette. Chevrolet introduced a big-block V8, and it proved an immediate hit. Previously, the 327ci “Fuelie” had been the undisputed performance king, but the 396ci V8 not only generated more power and torque, but was considerably cheaper than the Fuelie. By the end of 1965, an impressive 2,157 buyers had ordered their cars with a 396ci V8 under the hood, while a mere 771 paid a premium for the Fuelie. The jig was up, and Chevrolet quietly dropped its fuel-injected powerplant at the end of 1965. This Corvette features its numbers-matching Fuelie, generating a factory-quoted 375hp and 350 ft/lbs of torque. The power feeds to the road via a four-speed manual transmission, and I think that this car may also feature power steering. The seller provides invoices confirming that a specialist recently rebuilt the fuel injection system, suggesting that this is a turnkey classic that will deliver exhilarating performance.

Potential buyers will welcome the news that this Corvette recently received an interior retrim in its correct Black leather. Therefore, the lack of apparent faults is unsurprising. I’m unsure whether to describe the appearance as showroom-fresh, but it comes awfully close. The gorgeous teakwood wheel increases the car’s desirability, and this classic features an AM/FM radio and no aftermarket additions.

Chevrolet’s decision to introduce an optional big-block engine significantly impacted Fuelie sales, leading the company to drop the motor at year’s end. It was a wise move from a business perspective, but it also means that these cars are becoming increasingly desirable with each passing year. Six-figure sale prices have become the norm, making the seller’s BIN for this Coupe quite realistic. The listing statistics look modest, but this is probably because it is impossible to describe this Corvette as affordable. However, it only takes one person with the cash for this gem to find a new home. Do you think that will happen?