With Corvettes, you either get a car you shouldn't drive (matching numbers trailer queen) or a car that you can't resist driving. This 1965 Chevrolet Corvette roadster falls into the latter category, packing a period-correct 327, a 4-speed, side pipes, and a fantastic color combination. If want a Mid-Year 'Vette to drive, this '65 delivers with a more reasonable price tag. Finished in beautiful Nassau Blue paint, this Corvette roadster is one of those rare cars that can be driven and enjoyed while it appreciates as an investment. And now that Corvettes are grade-A collectables, even the driver-grade cars like this are going to be as safe as money in the bank. The fiberglass body is quite straight, with crisp body lines and doors that close with that unique Corvette sound. Two-stage urethane paint replicates the original hue, a handsome bright blue that was the most popular color in 1965. It shines up well and plays quite well on the C2's dramatic shape, with the finished product being the very definition of "fun in the sun." It's not perfect and you won't want to park this one in a trailer, but for a car that begs to be driven, it's exactly right. They didn't take any liberties with the car, either, so it wears a correct hood, reproduction badges, and brightly chromed bumpers that show well despite their age. Corvette stylists were hitting on all 8 cylinders when the Stingray was designed, so you get a well-detailed interior that's uniquely American with a lot of European influences. The black bucket seats wear reproduction seat covers that match the originals and they have a somewhat inviting look that isn't perfect but isn't worn out, either. Replacement carpets and door panels help add to the consistent feeling inside, and there are great-looking analog gauges in the instrument panel. Again, there are no modifications to distract you from the authentic feel of a vintage 'Vette, but a new radio might be a wise investment (the original radio is there but it is sadly not operational). There's a white convertible top that fits so well we were almost afraid to put it down, and the rear window isn't cloudy or cracked. Driver grade isn't a bad thing when it looks this good and works this well. Numbers matching is critical on an investment-grade Corvette, but it isn't mandatory if you want to drive. The L75 327/300 under the hood is a date-code-correct 1965 327 rebuilt to stock specs and ready to hit the road. Correct Chevy Orange paint covers all the engine surfaces, and they resisted the urge to "upgrade" it along the way. A chrome air cleaner lid, beautiful finned valve covers, and a factory-style alternator add authenticity, but there's no denying the appeal is in how it runs. Ram's horn exhaust manifolds lead to those cackling side pipes and the rest of the chassis is in good order, although not detailed for show. Up close you'll see factory power steering and a Muncie 4-speed transmission, so it drives even better than it looks, and with 1965 being the first year for 4-wheel disc brakes, it's extremely competent out on the road. Pretty knock-off wheels with spinners look awesome on any C3 Corvette and they wear 7.75-15 bias-ply whitewalls for a correct look. Still modestly priced, this 1965 Corvette roadster is a car you can still show with pride, drive with a big grin on your face, and it will always be worth at least what you've spent on it. Call today!
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