Nineteen sixty-two proved a banner year for the development of General Motors’ mighty Corvette. It was the final evolution of the original sports roadster generation prior to the following year’s introduction of the seminal Sting Ray series. That year Corvettes featured more demure styling, with the elimination of some chrome trim, and finishing available in monotone paint only. Conversely, performance made major strides with the arrival of a new small-block 327 cubic inch V-8, which was available in four different levels of tune. Racing privateers ably capitalized on the new engine, as Corvettes took a class win at the 1962 Daytona Continental and won the year’s SCCA Class A-Production title.

This ’62 Corvette is equipped with a four-speed manual gearbox and the 340 hp carbureted engine, the most powerfully tuned carbureted option for 1962. Finished in Fawn Beige paint over a matching Fawn Beige interior, the Corvette is believed to be a lifelong California car. Its most recent private ownership was in the hands of a California enthusiast who retained possession for many years. The Corvette is believed to be highly original and still features its original 340 hp, 327 cu. in. V-8 engine, as confirmed by the matching engine stamp. While the carpets and dashboard are believed to be original, the seats were more recently reupholstered. In preparation for the current offering the carburetor was serviced and a correct date-coded aluminum radiator was installed.

Accompanied by a proper soft-top and color-matched hardtop, this Corvette is reported by the consignor to drive and run very well. It offers a desirable example of the final year of the first-generation Corvette that would be ideal for display as well as driving enjoyment.