The second-generation Corvette Sting Ray (1963-67) represented a significant advancement in design and engineering. Its sleek body originated from Peter Brock’s early sketches and Bill Mitchell’s SCCA Stingray racer, with production refinements by Larry Shinoda.
Chevrolet offered the Sting Ray with various powertrains, catering to both grand touring and high-performance buyers. The chassis saw significant upgrades, introducing fully independent suspension in 1963 and long-awaited four-wheel disc brakes in 1965. Enthusiasts responded positively, with production increasing yearly until 1966 when total output reached 27,720 units—17,762 convertibles and 9,958 coupes.
A standout engine option was the RPO L79 327 CI V-8, available from 1965 to 1968. It produced 350 HP and featured a high-performance hydraulic camshaft, aluminum intake, Holley four-barrel carburetor, and free-flowing cylinder heads. Experts regard the L79 as one of Chevrolet’s finest high-performance small-block engines.
Check out this video from TheTopher on YouTube to see what it’s like to drive a 1966 Corvette, finished in Silver Pearl over a matching silver interior, and a numbers-matching 327 cubic-inch V8 producing 350 horsepower.
