Presenting in the extremely rare and desirable color combination of Rally Red with a white-on-red interior and white soft top, this arresting 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible’s comprehensive, body-off restoration has earned it Bloomington Certification. Produced on July 27, 1965 and delivered new by Earl Hayes Chevrolet in Dallas, Texas (Dealer Code 299 in Zone 7), this is one of just 2,157 factory equipped with the first big-block Mark IV V-8 engine installed in production Corvettes. Its matching-numbers original drivetrain has been inspected by Al Grenning’s Classic Car Affirmation Service, which has affirmed the originality and authenticity of its block, stamp pad and engine stamp. Dubbed Regular Production Option L78, the 396 CI Mark IV engine redefined the Corvette. Introduced into production in mid-March 1965, the L78 replaced the Rochester fuel-injected L84 327 CI small-block V-8 as Corvette’s most powerful engine, ending a seven-plus-year run of fuel-injected small-block engines that established Corvette’s reign as one of the world’s most desirable sports cars. The L78 marked a new beginning for Corvette as the ultimate muscle machine of its time. With 11.0:1 compression, a heavy-duty forged crank and rods, forged domed pistons, a wild solid-lifter camshaft, high-flow cylinder heads and a large single Holley 4-barrel on a dual-plane aluminum intake manifold, the L78 produced a staggering 425 HP at no less than 6,400 RPM and 415 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 RPM. To balance the engine’s extra weight and handle its immense output, L78-equipped Corvettes were fitted with stiffer front springs and increased-diameter front and rear sway bars; a larger engine fan and wider copper-core radiator were used, clutch pressure was increased, and the rear axle shafts were made of SAE 4240 steel and shot-peened for greater durability. Adding to the Corvette’s muscular new image was a prominent hood bulge with functional screened side openings and an optional, new, factory side exhaust system, together which left no doubt as to the power lurking within. This L78 convertible is the complete package for the midyear big-block enthusiast. A Muncie M20 wide-ratio 4-speed manual transmission and 3.70 Positraction rear end round out the drivetrain, while side exhaust and 7.75x15 white-stripe tires on Kelsey-Hayes knock-off aluminum wheels drive home the big-block visuals. The car retains the original trim tag and VIN plate, and it’s further equipped with stainless steel brakes, K66 transistorized ignition, F40 Heavy Duty Suspension, a tinted windshield, seat belts and an AM/FM radio. Offered with a three-ring binder with documentation that includes the Bloomington Gold judging sheets and CCAS/ Grenning affirmation, this first-year, big-block, 4-speed Sting Ray convertible retains most all factory-correct-type components including the spare, jack, jack tools, shocks, seat belts, washer system, shifter, shielding, braided wires, air cleaner, alternator, distributor, spark plug shields, hoses, hose clamps, expansion tank, radiator, gas door assembly, bowtie mirror, glovebox door, warranty book, owner's manual, sales brochure and T-3 headlights.
