Debuting for the 1966 model year, Chevrolet’s L72 427 V-8 was a force to be reckoned with. Officially rated at 425 horsepower, its 11.0:1 compression, solid-lifter cam, forged crank, free-flowing rectangular-port cylinder heads, and virtually bulletproof block allowed for a number closer to 450 horsepower, making this one of the most potent engines used by an American automaker in the 1960s. Developed from a series of special Mark IV engines and field-tested by Zora Arkus-Duntov and his team, it was used in Don Yenko’s famed Super Camaros and Super Chevelles, and they formed the basis of the GM-built COPO Camaro in 1969. It was especially potent when dropped into the relatively lightweight Corvette.

An early-production example, this Corvette was built during the first few months of production for the 427/450 in October 1965 before the power ratings were downrated from 450 to 425 hp by Chevrolet. This was believed to have been done for insurance reasons, and most of the 1966 production run were 425 hp examples. It was restored in understated Milano Maroon with Saddle leather interior, giving it a period-correct and very attractive look. Side pipes, a close-ratio M21 four-speed manual gearbox, Posi-Traction rear axle, and finned cast-aluminum knock-off wheels surely make this example a thrilling drive, while the removable hardtop, power steering, and AM-FM radio offer some creature comforts for the occupants.

A stunningly presented big-block Corvette, this Sting Ray is well optioned and is sure to give thrills for years to come.