Single registered keeper and driver in Sweden for the last 30 years
Underwent comprehensive restoration over fifteen years (1996-2011)
Just 890 kilometres covered in total since its restoration
Rare and Desirable first model year 'Split Window' example
Four-speed manual transmission
Registered in Sweden: permanently imported with duty and taxes paid, registration pending
The Appeal
Inspired by Bill Mitchell's legendary Stingray race car, Corvette's legendary design team were all too happy to get away from the decidedly mid-century-looking Corvette and bring in something more aggressive, muscular, and futuristic. The C2 in its purest form is a remarkable, if decidedly impractical, piece of design. Introduced in 1963, the car brought in hidden headlights (something not seen in an American production car since the 1942 model DeSoto), faux bonnet vents and a split rear window. It was a lesson in pure vanity and aerodynamics alike. Though the latter feature lasted only a year, the car's engineer, Zora Arkus-Duntov, noted that rear visibility could be important.
The result, of course, is that the 'Split Window' Stingray is the rarest of the second generation Corvette, and amongst the most desirable. The purity of design, rebellious personality and impressive performance are all the makings of a well-deserved legend, and any enthusiast with a passion for high-octane exploits will doubtless have plenty of interest in the opportunity to take on this first-year-only example.
This particular car has had a single registered keeper since it arrived in Sweden in 1996. The current owner, a 71-year-old lady, commissioned a comprehensive restoration that spanned fifteen years from 1996 to 2011. Following the completion of this work, the car has been driven with great care and restraint, venturing out only once or twice per year over the last fifteen years, covering just 890 kilometres since its restoration was completed.
The vendor informs us that the car appears to be in beautiful condition, and it's certainly very handsome - though a service is advised before the car can return to the road properly, due to limited use in recent years.
Beautifully presented following its restoration, completed in 2011
Silver livery suits the car perfectly
Original period features, including the faux bonnet vents and split rear window
Original hub caps with logo 'Spinner'
Bright red interior looks in very handsome order
Instruments all clean and legible
Upholstery is fine and well-presented
Carpets and headlining well-kept
The C2 Stingray is a deeply impressive car. Long nose, aggressive lines - it's a masterclass in what the muscle car is meant to be at its core, and this one is beyond eye-catching. It's a winning colour scheme that perfectly suits those futurist lines, and with only 890km covered since the car was overhauled, it all looks in fine fettle from top to bottom.
The interior follows the theme nicely. Corvette cabins of the era are often likened to aeroplane cockpits, and with the clusters of instruments and curvy dash, it's easy to see why. It feels plush and comfortable, loaded with mid-century style and carrying only gentle signs of patina.
It's not often we see a Corvette in such fine condition, let alone one from this rare first model year.DSC03817 Greg Copeland.jpg11.6 MB
The Mechanics
5.4-litre V8 engine
Four-speed manual transmission
Factory-standard mechanical spec
Rebuilt in 2011
Engine reportedly starts and runs correctly
Requires servicing before regular use
The throaty burble of Chevrolet's V8 was the soundtrack for generations of muscle car, and it's arguably the C2 that made it the stuff of legend. Not a single person could look away when one of these was storming through the centre of town - some things really do never change.
Reportedly in good running order, the vendor does note that the minuscule recent mileage may mean a service is overdue for this example's fine small-block unit. Once this has been done, we expect that you'll have a real one-of-a-kind experience on the road.DSC03824 Greg Copeland.jpg12.06 MB
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.
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✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.
