Lot details
Registration No: ARA287A
Chassis No: 30867S112615
Mot Expiry: Sept 2011

For many the cream of the crop, the second generation or C2 Corvette was introduced in 1963. Styled by Larry Shinoda under the watchful eye of Bill Mitchell and christened the 'Sting Ray', its fibreglass bodywork was punctuated by numerous taut, flattening lines that gave onlookers due warning as to the latent power lurking under the 'hood'. Based around a new perimeter-frame chassis equipped with five crossmembers, independent rear suspension (a Corvette first) and large-diameter drum brakes, even the 'base model' 'Vette boasted 250bhp and 350lbft of torque from its small-block 327ci (5.4 litre) V8.

Built in St Louis during 1963, this particular example is understood to pleasingly retain its factory-fitted cylinder block. Believed to have had just one previous keeper (the gentleman in question apparently being a close associate of Silvio Berlusconi), the 'Vette entered the current ownership on the say-so of Willie Green. The latter citing its condition, originality, provenance and FIVA papers as good reasons to buy.

Duly imported from Italy, the roadster was converted to race specification at great expense but nevertheless remains capable of road use. Having spent some £95,000 on the Chevrolet (including £65,000 for parts and engineering services), the vendor justifiably believes it to be among the very best available today. Indeed, in comparison with certain '63 'Vettes which have reached prices of over £100,000 during recent times, this well-prepared racer seems something of a bargain.

The car was gone through from stem to stern by RW Racing Services, the overhaul work including all-new suspension and brakes, changing to the optional front discs. The new rear spring incorporates an extra leaf, and there is a new aluminium radiator and oil cooler. A roll bar was added, but the dashboard remains standard, with extra gauges matching the style of the originals. An extra fuel tank was added for long-distance events.

A refurbished competition-ready four-speed manual gearbox was sourced from the US, and the engine was given to Tim Adams for an overhaul; in FIA-eligible spec, it produces 400-plus bhp on a four-barrel Holley. With new FIA/HTP papers, the car has only run four races in the GT & Sports Car Cup since it was acquired in 2007, and the owner admits he is selling only because he's not comfortable with left-hand drive on race circuits.

Describing the coachwork as "excellent and original" and the paintwork as "first class", he adds: "The car comes with hard and soft tops and is genuinely ready to race. Much of the interior is original and even the original radio and electric windows work well. The hood and original seats are currently stored". As well as the GT & Sports Car Cup, the 'Vette is eligible for the Gentlemen Drivers' Series among various others and has the potential to be, in the right hands, a regular front runner.