History shows that Chevrolet’s decision to introduce a Coupe variant to its C2 Corvette range may have been inspired. It is impossible to determine how many customers it attracted who weren’t keen on owning a drop-top version. However, the fact that it accounted for over 35% of total sales by the time our feature car rolled off the line in 1966 suggests the sales volume justified the development expense. This 1966 Coupe is stunning, but whether it is a genuine survivor or received a meticulous restoration is unclear. One thing is sure: With its No Reserve auction, it is only days away from finding a new home. The ‘Vette is listed here on eBay in Fort Worth, Texas. Bidding has raced to $48,675, with time remaining for interested parties to stake their claim.

Chevrolet offered 1966 Corvette buyers ten paint shades from which to choose. Our feature car is 1-of-3,799 ordered in Milano Maroon. Only Nassau Blue was more popular, gracing the panels of 6,100 vehicles. The history of this classic is unclear, meaning the seller doesn’t indicate whether it is a stunning survivor or the recipient of a detailed restoration or refurbishment. It presents superbly, with no signs of significant paint or fiberglass issues. We receive no information about the state of the frame or birdcage. Still, the lack of visible corrosion and the car’s geographic location allows us to be cautiously optimistic. Another aspect of this classic that raises questions is whether some more desirable features, like the side exhaust and aluminum knock-off wheels, are original. If they are, they demonstrate that the original owner wasn’t scared to splash their cash on the car of their dreams. Those features look immaculate, and there are no apparent faults with the trim or tinted glass.

Chevrolet introduced the 396ci V8 into the Corvette range in 1965, with the capacity increasing to 427ci in 1966. It is frustrating that the seller seems reluctant to share information about this Corvette, making it impossible to determine whether it is numbers-matching. We do know that it features a 427ci V8, a four-speed manual transmission, a Posi rear end, and power assistance for the steering and disc brakes. The engine is the L72 version of the big-block, placing 425hp and 460 ft/lbs of torque at the driver’s disposal. The Corvette’s performance credentials were unquestioned, with a ¼-mile ET of 13.5 seconds and a top speed of 138mph, demonstrating this was a genuinely potent weapon. The listing indicates an odometer reading of 25,000 miles, but as with so much of this classic, its originality is unknown. The seller is consistent because we have no idea how this car runs or drives. We must hope they are approachable because genuinely interested parties will undoubtedly have plenty of questions to ask.

This Corvette’s interior is spotless, from its Black leather seats to the beautiful Teakwood wheel. The lack of wear and deterioration on every surface makes me believe this Coupe was recently restored. Describing the interior of any classic of this age as perfect is risky, but this Corvette wouldn’t look out of place on a showroom floor. The dash is spotless, the gauges feature clear lenses and crisp markings, and there isn’t a scratch or mark anywhere. There are no aftermarket additions, with the Delco pushbutton radio occupying its rightful place in the dash.

I’m pretty sure this 1966 Corvette isn’t a survivor. My instincts tell me that it was recently restored or refurbished. Determining which depends on its originality. If the drivetrain is numbers-matching and it rolled off the line wearing the side exhaust and knock-off wheels, I would consider it a restoration. If there are any significant variations from its original specifications, then the classic market and organizations like the NCRS would class it as refurbished. It will be fascinating to gauge your response to the question. The lack of information hasn’t dampened buyer interest, with the ‘Vette receiving nineteen bids in one day. It is destined to find a new home, but could it be yours?