Lot 156 - 1966 Chevrolet Corvette C2 Stingray
| Lot Number | 156 |
| Registration | N996272 |
| Chassis Number | 194676S100291 |
| Engine Number | 1M05727 |
| Odometer reading | 21,484 miles |
| Estimate | £39,000 - £45,000 |
The Corvette Stingray had grown to be America's most popular sports car since its debut in 1953 but it was time for a change for the 1963-1967 models. Even the most superlative design grows whiskers after a decade and Chevrolet chief, Bill Mitchell, and stylist, Larry Shinoda, faced a tough task; to improve a living legend. Not only did they succeed but their creation turned into a modern classic and they created the most collectible Corvette of them all sending sales soaring to record levels. Seeds were planted by the Stingray Special racer and experimental XP-720 which displayed a smooth fastback profile and split back window. These and other styling details such as pivoting hidden headlights, doors cut into the roof, and a swage line dip all wound up in the production Stingray. The four headlights aligned with the pointy front end when shut, rotating open when needed. Luggage space grew, though lack of a boot lid earned few plaudits. There was less fibreglass but nearly twice as much steel in the sculptured body, which rode a shorter 98-inch wheelbase.
This striking example of the Corvette Stingray was restored in 2014. The whole body was sandblasted and repainted. Under the car, the suspension and braking systems were overhauled with new parts. The 350ci, big block engine underwent work too with new seals fitted throughout. Inside the car, the interior is all original and so is the soft top convertible roof. Imported to Germany in 2015, the car came to the UK in 2016 and went into a private collection. Still on the American registration, this Corvette C2 is supplied with the paperwork necessary to register it in the UK, including the US certificate of title, the NOVA certificate, an MoT test certificate which expires in April 2019, the German import papers and a V55/5; the new owner will need to get a dating certificate from the appropriate car club. With summer around the corner, this Stingray is definitely ready for some adrenalin filled open top motoring.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.