1969 Corvette C3 Stingray (RHD)

Vin no. 194379S713054

Engine no. T0104LM 19S713054

It is no wonder that when Chevrolet recently unveiled the 2014 Corvette, they chose to bring back the Sting Ray name. The Corvette Sting Ray of the 1960s had something of a dual personality. Not only was it easy to drive fast and practical for everyday use, its skilful handling and manoeuvrability combined with a desirable appearance proved irresistible to enthusiasts.

When the C3 Corvette made its debut for the 1968 model year, it was the wildest automobile to be seen on the streets since the Lamborghini Muira. With one of the longest build cycles for an American car (September 1968 – December 1969), both the Corvette body and interior were completely redesigned. As before, the Corvette was sold in either coupe or convertible styles, the latter featuring a targa-type roof design with a removable rear window. Inspiration was drawn from the Mako Shark II and “sugar scoop” roof contours from the Duntov group designs, resulting in a look both beautiful and aggressive in nature.

The start of the ‘Stingray’ era saw the name appearing as one word on the front fenders above four vertical fender vents. The enduring new body’s concealed highlights were operated by a new vacuum system (rather than electrically as on the previous generation), and the reversing lights were integrated into the tail lights.

The 1969 Corvette came with a 350-cid V8 developing 300 hp at 4800 rpm and a choice of either the Turbo-Hydra-Matic or four-speed manual gearbox. Included in the standard equipment list were vinyl upholstery, centre console and full instrumentation including tacho and an electric clock, front and rear disc brakes, a dual exhaust and tinted glass. Optional engines included the 350 hp L46 or the various 427-cid big-blocks in different levels of tune, along with other heavy-duty manual transmissions to cope with the extra grunt. Chevrolet built 22,129 of the targa-topped Corvettes in 1969 and these pre-emissions cars still managed to turn some very respectable numbers.

This 1969 Stingray coupe is finished in striking Daytona Yellow with ZL-1 livery (black strips), T-Top roof with wild side exhaust pipes. Fitted with a matched number 427 cubic inch 390 hp V8 engine and 4 speed manual transmission. We are advised that Christine Brown of Utah originally purchased the car new in 1969. It changed hands once before Geoff Paradise purchased it and imported it into Australia. The vendor purchased the car from Michael Heinich of Silverdale NSW in 2005. Odometer currently reading 23 miles (faulty).

This vehicle is currently registered in Queensland (S15479), the club plates illustrated are not transferable and vehicle will be sold unregistered.