1966 Chevrolet Corvette L72 427

Description

The Stingray was transformed in 1965 with the addition of big block power, and in 1966 the 'Vette came with 427 cubic inches of thunder. This pretty Sunfire Yellow roadster packs its numbers-matching L72 427/425, which was the top engine in '66, plus a 4-speed gearbox, and side pipes, making it the ideal mix of beauty and beast. If you've been longing for a big block mid-year 'Vette, you shouldn't miss this one.

Restored to a high level a few years ago (it won an NCRS Top Flight in 2014), this lovely Corvette proudly wears a big block hood and side pipes, making it look intimidating even when it's standing still. On the other hand, the soft Sunfire Yellow paint isn't at all aggressive and gives it a more refined look overall. Fortunately, the bodywork is in great shape because this is the kind of car that's going to get a lot of scrutiny, with factory-style gaps, flush-fitting headlight doors, and a nice shine that looks just about right for something built five decades ago (although the paint is obviously much newer than that). There's no stinger on the hood, which didn't come until later, so even though the hood's "power dome" is substantial, the car has a low-key look that's ideal for its split personality. Bright chrome pieces, proper emblems (check out how vivid the crossed-flags are on the nose), and plenty of other details make it look quite authentic and a lot nicer than many of its peers.

The "standard" black interior is completely new, including seat covers, carpets, door panels, and all the other soft parts that delight the eye when you climb inside. There's a bit of patina that's actually quite appealing, but virtually no wear. The gauges were restored and show crisp markings, bright needles, and clear lenses, and the unusual vertically-oriented AM/FM radio still works properly. Corvette fans will appreciate the shiny chrome shifter that links to a 4-speed Muncie underneath and carpeted floor mats protect the matching black carpets. Overhead there's a recent black convertible top, but this Corvette also includes a rather rare factory hardtop which has been fully restored and painted to match the bodywork.

The L72 was the biggest, nastiest engine you could get in your street Corvette in 1966, and with the way GM was playing games with the numbers, who knows how much horsepower it really makes. 450 is the number that gets thrown around a lot. Thanks to a 4-barrel carburetor and a fairly significant camshaft, this matching-numbers 427 sure walks with a swagger and generates effortless performance. The engine bay is nicely detailed with Chevy Orange on the engine, an aluminum intake, and a correct open element air cleaner with reproduction decals. Little things like the hose clamps and even the hoses themselves are accurate reproductions, and aside from some signs of use, it's pretty nice. Stock exhaust manifolds dump into those barking side pipes, and a quick glance underneath will reveal that the chassis is as nicely detailed as the rest of the car. Correct knock-off wheels look great and carry 205/75/15 Michelin radials that ride and handle better than the original bias-plys.

Documented with judging sheets, certificates, restoration photos, manuals, and other paperwork, this is a very impressive Mid-Year 'Vette. Beautifully finished and ready to rock, this is the big block roadster you've been looking for. Are you ready? Call today!