1966 Chevrolet Corvette

Description

In Corvette terms, this matching-numbers 1966 roadster is a relative bargain. If you've been watching, you know that the '63 split-window coupes and '67 427/435s are out-of-sight expensive, but there are still wonderful drop-top 'Vettes out there like this one that deliver the same experience for a fraction of the cost.

Rally Red was the third most popular Corvette color in 1966, and it's easy to see why they changed it from its original Mosport Green during the restoration. Crisp and bright in a way that grabs your attention, it's the quintessential Corvette color and looks fantastic on the Mid-Year bodywork. This one had a thorough restoration several years ago and still looks good enough to show up at events with pride. There are plenty of trailer queens out there, but this car has a great mix of appealing cosmetics and just the right amount of age on it that you'll never think twice about getting behind the wheel. Sure, everyone says they want perfection, but when it comes to actually driving your vintage 'Vette, this car gets it right. Panel gaps are just how the factory would have done it, with good shut lines and doors that open and close precisely. It also wears shiny chrome on its bumpers, correctly finished rocker panel trim, and brightly colored emblems fore and aft that really pop against the red paint. The result is an extremely clean, elegant mid-year that shows extremely well and is welcome anywhere it goes.

A black vinyl interior is just the right choice with bright red paint, a classic combination that will never go out of style. Like the body, the interior was nicely restored and includes fresh seat covers, new door panels, and a restored dashboard full of fully functional gauges. Showing only light signs of use, the seats (which are called "Standard" but don't much look it) are inviting and comfortable, with a performance look that suggests this car is delightful to drive. Matching black carpets offer the correct weave, and the center console really is very nicely done. This car also sports a digital AM/FM radio upgrade, plus a woodgrained steering wheel to continue the refined, upscale feel. And remarkably, everything works except the odometer. It also seals up nicely with a white vinyl convertible top looks good, fits well, and shows few signs of age.

1966 was a great year for Corvettes, and even the "base" engine was making a robust 300 horsepower. This roadster carries its original, numbers-matching 327 and Muncie 4-speed that were rebuilt in 2011. Invisible upgrades include a Comp Cams camshaft for a little extra oomph, but the rest of it is quite stock. Chevy Orange paint on the block keeps it looking correct, and with finned Corvette-logo valve covers this one looks very flashy indeed. Correct tower hose clamps, GM-stamped hoses, a new wiring harness, and proper finishes throughout make this engine bay look quite accurate. Underneath, the chassis has lots of new parts, including a rebuilt front end, and there's just nothing like the sound of a high-winding small block blowing through a set of side pipes. The only real deviation from totally stock is a set of 215/75/15 BFGoodrich redline radials mounted on gorgeous Rally wheels.

Your search for a super-clean, numbers-matching mid-year Corvette roadster is over. Trim but still potent on the open road, this roadster lives up to all that the Corvette has promised over the decades. Call today!