When the Corvette was completely redesigned for the 1963 model year, it was a stunning example of just how powerful a company General Motors was at that time. The styling was something from another planet thanks to General Motors Styling Section under Bill Mitchell, and the engineering was cutting edge due to Zora Arkus Duntov and his crew’s passion for making the Corvette a proper sports car. The new Sting Ray was a runaway hit, but the basic design lasted until 1967. Decades later, these beautiful cars are still one of the most talked about and sought-after American cars ever built. If you are looking for a handsome driver-level car, this 1965 Chevrolet Corvette coupe may be just the ticket. With a freshly rebuilt 300-horsepower small block V-8, a four-speed transmission, Positraction, and knock-off wheels, this Corvette is a head turner. Are you ready to pick up the car of your dreams?
One of the most interesting things about this Corvette is that it is not quite the same as when it left the factory in 1965. Originally, this was a Milano Maroon car with maroon trim. Somewhere along the line, it was repainted in Silver Pearl. The reproduction window sticker shown in the ad says that it also came with maroon trim. While the interior is maroon to match the original color, the seats currently in the car are maroon leather. Chances are slim that these are the original seat covers, but if the car was equipped from the factory with optional leather instead of the standard vinyl, it would be on the window sticker.
Besides those differences, this car has a few desirable options. Under the hood is a 327 cubic inch small block V-8 putting out 300 horsepower. The 300-horsepower engine didn’t get a lot of respect back in the day because higher-horsepower engines were available. Yet it was a good choice if you wanted a Corvette for everyday transportation and casual cruising. This engine is backed with a four-speed manual transmission and a Positraction rear end. All of the numbers on this drivetrain are said to match the car.
Some of the other options the car came with are wrapped up in what is called the Confort and Convenience Group. Those included a no-glare rearview mirror and backup lamps. The car also had a tinted windshield, an AM/FM radio, aluminum quick-release wheels, gold line tires, and a highly desirable wood steering wheel. Looking at the picture above, we see that the owner has added a plastic drink holder that fits on the center console, as this vehicle was built before cupholders were a thing. It is hard to understand how people lived through those dark times.
Sadly, we are not given a photograph of the engine compartment. The seller tells us that the original engine has benefitted from a fresh rebuild. During that time, it was returned to stock specifications. That is said to include the car’s proper ignition shielding and air cleaner. The chrome and stainless trim are in good shape as well. We are also told that the birdcage metal support structure and the frame are solid and rust-free. This Corvette has even recently passed New York’s State Inspection so it has certification that it is roadworthy.
The color change and a few other quirks knock this Corvette out of the upper tier of collectible Sting Rays. The good news is that this car has the making of an excellent cruiser or GT car to take you anywhere you would like to go. If the condition is as the seller states, then the price is well within the ballpark. As always, with every car and Corvettes in particular, hire an expert to inspect the car and ensure everything is as-advertised before making a purchase.
Are you looking for a C2 Corvette to enjoy? If so, then this 1965 Corvette coupe for sale on Craigslist in Lockport, New York, may be the perfect driver-quality example for your collection. This silver Corvette with a freshly rebuilt engine is currently being offered for $67,500 and has recently passed its New York State Inspection. Thanks to Mitchell G. for this beautiful Corvette find!
Nice. Hard for me to fault the paint color as in ’66 I bought a Buick Skylark with the same color. Painted one of our early Porsches that color and it really made a good looking car out of it. Car pretty well sums up just how good the series was and still is.
Color change? So what! I think the C2 is the essence of a real and true Corvette, and I’d like this car if it was pink with purple interior.
Depends on how nice prep and paint job is. A few pictures doesn’t show the true finished product. I bid on a 72 Pantera years ago at a Topsfield Auction in Massachusetts. Then I showed up before it hit the block. I let it go.
C1 and C2’s are the best vettes. I had a 65 396 convertible maroon/silver interior with side pipes. The only Corvette out of owning five that I miss.
nice car despite the repaint
Would like to see the trim tag to see exactly what the original colors and finish were
Skeptical about window sticker because that’s the simulated wood wheel not a teak wheel
That’s a reproduction window sticker, you can buy one with whatever options you want on it.
The hood release must not be functional.