Chevrolet commemorated the 60th anniversary of the Corvette with a 427 Convertible Collector Edition for the 2013 model year, the final season of the sports car’s sixth generation. Blending elements from the vaunted Z06 and ZR1 models, the 427 Collector Edition was the fastest, most capable convertible in Corvette history up to that point, according to Chevrolet.

Backing that claim was the most powerful engine ever installed in a production Corvette Convertible at the time—the 427-cubic-inch LS7 V-8 from the Corvette Z06, co-developed with the 24 Hours of Le Mans-winning Corvette C6.R program. Producing 505 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, it featured lightweight titanium connecting rods and intake valves, racing-inspired high-flow cylinder heads, and a dry-sump oiling system.

The 427 Collector Edition also included the driveline and rear axle system from the Z06, as well as a rear-mounted battery and standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control. Lightweight “Cup” wheels with grey-painted pockets were standard and measured 19 inches up front and 20 inches at the rear. A carbon fiber raised hood from the 2011 Z06 Carbon Edition, carbon fiber Z06-style fenders, and carbon fiber floor panels helped achieve a power-to-weight ratio superior to that of the contemporary Aston Martin DBS Volante, Audi R8 5.2 Spyder, Ferrari California, and Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet.

A carbon fiber front splitter and rocker panels were optional and included with the available 60th Anniversary Design Package, which also brought Arctic White exterior paint, a blue convertible top, a Blue Diamond leather interior featuring suede accents, a ZR1-style rear spoiler, grey-painted brake calipers, and “60th” logos on the exterior and interior. An optional 60th Anniversary Stripe Package added Pearl Silver Blue racing stripes, including a tonal stripe stitched into the convertible top.

This Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition shipped new to Penske Chevrolet in Indianapolis on 10 October 2012, equipped with the optional 60th Anniversary Design and Stripe Packages. It is made even more special having been awarded to Chip Ganassi Racing as a result of IndyCar legend Dario Franchitti and the team’s triumph in the 96th running of the Indianapolis 500.

Now offered from original ownership featuring Indianapolis 500 pace car graphics and with just 47 miles on the odometer at cataloguing time, this remarkable convertible is truly a Corvette collector’s dream, thanks to the unique provenance, impressive performance features, and commemorative factory specifications. It is accompanied by copies of its original dealer invoice, window sticker, and certificate of origin.