I don’t think there are many angles better to photograph a C2 Corvette than from low-down. It allows the photographer to accentuate the car’s beautiful lines, especially if the vehicle presents as superbly as this 1965 Convertible. Finding anything to criticize is seemingly impossible, while the fact that it retains its optional numbers-matching engine is the icing on the cake. The seller has listed this stunning classic here on Craigslist in Lakeway, Texas. They set their price at $85,000, and I must say a big thank you to eagle-eyed Barn Finder T.J. for spotting this stunning classic.
Originality. It is typically a key consideration for any enthusiast purchasing a classic with one eye on its investment potential. The rarity of the vehicle itself and its features will often impact their thinking. Take this 1965 Corvette Convertible as a prime example. It underwent a refurbishment at an undisclosed time, with the builder applying a stunning coat of Nassau Blue paint. This was a popular shade in 1965, chosen by 6,022 buyers. However, its first owner ordered it in Silver Pearl, and with a production total of only 2,552 cars, that color is considerably rarer. The side exhaust is a reproduction item added during the refresh, as are the knock-off wheels. These factors mean that this Convertible can’t be considered a survivor or restored, but it can be enjoyed as a high-end driver. The seller assesses the paint as 8.5/10, indicating that a close inspection will reveal minor chips and marks. There is no evidence of fiberglass fatigue, and the new Black soft-top fits as tight as a drum. There is no mention of rust, which is unsurprising considering the car’s location. The trim and glass are spotless, and although this ‘Vette isn’t totally original, it would still draw crowds on the street or at a Cars & Coffee.
This Corvette might feature some exterior changes, but it is original where it counts the most. The car retains its numbers-matching drivetrain which promises exhilarating performance. The first owner teamed a 327ci V8 with a four-speed M22 manual transmission, selecting the L76 version of the V8 for added bite. It generates 365hp and 350 ft/lbs of torque, providing useful performance gains while only adding $129.15 to the original sticker price. How much difference did the L76 make? A standard four-speed Corvette Convertible could use its 250hp to cover the ¼-mile in 15.4 seconds on its way to a factory-claimed 114mph. This car should improve those figures to 14.2 seconds and 145mph. I think that we can all agree that the $129.15 for the more potent engine represents money well spent. The listing indicates that this Convertible runs and drives well, ready to be enjoyed by its new owner.
If this Corvette’s exterior is stunning, its interior lifts the bar higher. One of the problems with owning a classic Convertible is there is nowhere to hide substandard upholstery and trim with the top down. However, that isn’t a concern in this case. The Black vinyl is free from significant wear, there is no evidence of abuse or neglect and the dash is spotless. It will score extra points with enthusiasts, courtesy of its original AM/FM radio and beautiful factory Teakwood wheel.
This 1965 Corvette Convertible can hardly be considered cheap, but recent successful sales results suggest that the seller’s figure is realistic. It is a stunning and potent classic that appears to need nothing. However, I expect that it will divide reader opinions due to the changes made during its refurbishment. If you are a purist, you will decry them. If you view this Convertible purely as a high-end driver, they will be less significant. It will be fascinating to gauge your response and to see what percentage of our readers would park this Corvette in their garage in its current form.
Beautiful car. The design never gets old. As for add ons, our experience as a high end repair and restoration shop in the ’80s we found very few cars like the
Corvettes, Porsches, BMWs, and Mercedes that didn’t have some type of modification on them, whether like this car with the wheels and exhaust or a full body kit like the Mercedes and BMWs sported. Does an MGB get downgraded when you take off the solid steel wheels and hubcaps and put on spoked wheels?
I can say that people prefer an MGB with wired knock-offs as opposed to solid steel wheels.
The day wouldn’t be complete without seeing at least one nice C2 Vette on BF! And this one knocks it out of the park. Perfect appearance and perfect drive train. What’s not to like? And no matter what you add or subtract from a C2, it’s hard to ruin their looks.
The only style vette I would buy! And im not a vette guy.
A mi-year Corvette looks great from any angle.
hit the past 80 club last year and don’t have a lot of use for the “left one” any longer. How about a trade, I’d definitely give it for this one. This era of Vette’s were ultimately the best.
In my dreams!
I must be the only guy who isn’t a fan of side pipes on a C2. Beautiful car, though, and probably a fair price.
Nope, I’ve never been a fan either. Only about 20% of c2 vettes were ordered with side pipes, but nearly every one you see today has them. They ruin the clean lines. Similar situation to cowl induction that you see on every 1st gen Camaro now.
Lovely C2 I wouldn’t be happy until I traded for a 67 427/435 tri carb L71. The classic car of my dreams. I doubt if I’ll own one though. If I could own any Vette it would be a nice C2.
Convertible of course.
It is a gorgeous car that is well put together. It’s the last year for the 365HP solid lifter motor. Hopefully it has 3.70 rearend gears to take advantage of the motor around town.
The color is beautiful but, not being original, is a price deduction. The sidepipes, which I love, are also a deduct due to not available on that car.
Just me, but I think $75,000 is a more realistic price.
I’ve got a red 65 that I bought in 71, coupe w/side pipes and knockoffs. Has 337,000 miles on it, and on it’s 4th engine. Not in nearly as nice shape as this one. I’m amazed at what money these C2s are bringing! This one looks really nice, and I love the color so much that I’m painting my 74 Nova SS same color.
Beautiful car! The original Silver Pearl is my favorite C2 color but this Blue is stunning. It seems more intense than the factory Nassau blue but it sure works!
One minor nit to pick, the M22 was scheduled to be installed in the 65 Corvette, but none were documented as being installed. In 1966 15 M22s were installed, all behind L72 425 HP 427s and they became numerous from 1967 on. This info is per Nolan Adam’s excellent C2 restoration guide. It seems M22 is kind of the generic term for Muncie 4 speeds.
Even without supporting documentation, I tend to agree with you. I have never seen an M-22 factory installed behind a small block, (although I’m sure they probably exist.) Just no real good reason to do it. Now a 425 horse big block is a different story. At any rate, this is one hell of a car, and one that I would buy in a heartbeat if I was in the market. The L-76 is one of the neatest small blocks ever produced and even though they may not be original, adding the side pipes and knock offs was a stellar idea. This thing will make someone really happy.
JoeBob, I agree with you. I had a 67 400 hp roadster, a legit N14 car in the late 70s. Was still able to buy side exhaust covers from the Chevy dealer where I worked. I left it stock when my friend and I restored it, with mostly still available GM parts, yes, the good old days of few cheap aftermarket stuff. Anyway, when driving that 67 with the windows up, after about 10 miles, I could not stand the noise. I prefer under chassis exhaust. I also believe a C2 is better looking with side exhaust. Now, this 65 is a beauty with one of the best small-blocks ever and without the finicky fuel injection. Excellent forged internals, high compression, big Holley, etc. I applaud the seller here of this car coming clean about color change, added pipes, etc. Nice to see an honest seller, however, I think is asking price is about $15,000 too high.
145 mph in the qtr ? Doubt that.
As a reference the sfbay Craigslist lists a ’65 coupe with the same running gear. The widow is selling. Her husband, who owned the car for 54 years, redid the car in its original silver. Selling price…$69,500.
I completely agree with you re: the price. I believe that even as much as I like this car, it is about $15,000 too much.