The second-generation Chevrolet Corvette—the “C2,” colloquially—debuted for the 1963 model year. The culmination of more than half a decade of research both on and off the track, it was an instant sensation with its show-stopping, aerodynamic design by Corvette masterminds Bill Mitchell and Zora Arkus-Duntov. The body was extensively tested and tweaked for aerodynamics in wind tunnels with the resulting design being a radical shift from previous models. The outgoing Corvette’s signature, open, quad headlights were replaced with hideaway headlamps, which would become a Corvette staple. In addition to the familiar convertible body style, customers were also offered the choice of a coupe for the first time. Another Corvette first, Arkus-Duntov and Mitchell bestowed the name Sting Ray on their new creation, after a racecar they had developed in secret at General Motors.

A ladder-type frame replaced the X-type frame of the previous generation, which lowered the center of gravity while also improving handling. The solid rear axle gave way to a fully independent suspension. Like before, the body was made of fiberglass to save weight, but benefitted from nearly twice as much steel reinforcement as on earlier models. The standard engine remained a 327 cubic-inch V-8 rated at 250 horsepower. As with the outgoing generation, several uprated engine options were available, including the impressive L76 V-8 in the attractive Sting Ray Convertible offered here. This was the most powerful carbureted engine available for the Corvette in 1965. Rated at an astonishing 365 horsepower, it was just 10 horsepower shy of the more complex, fuel-injected L84 V-8, which cost four times as much ($129.15 for the L76 versus $538 for the L84).

Besides the numbers-matching L76 V-8, this Corvette Convertible also came desirably equipped with the factory four-speed manual transmission and air conditioning, as denoted by the “HK” suffix in the engine stamping. Air conditioning was the second most expensive option for the model year at $421.80 (only the L84 V-8 cost more) and exceedingly rare, present on just 872 convertibles for 1965—a 1.3-percent take rate. Adding further to this Corvette’s appeal is the four-speed manual floor-shift transmission and knock-off alloy wheels. The latter was the third most expensive option for the model year at $322.80.

Finished in factory-correct Nassau Blue with a white soft-top and two-tone blue and white interior, this Sting Ray convertible is said to have been restored under previous ownership. It remains in presentable condition with gentle patina throughout and has benefitted from the consignor’s conscientious upkeep as part of a collection. Now offered with parts and service invoices dating back to 2010, this handsome, well-specified Corvette Sting Ray Convertible is ready to delight its next caretaker with the formidable power and performance of its potent L76 V-8 engine.