Chevrolet Corvette Stingray (1965-66)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The 1965-66 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, while iconic and beloved by many, did have some common issues that owners and enthusiasts have noted over the years:

1. **Electrical Problems**: Issues with the wiring and electrical components were not uncommon. Problems with the starter, battery connections, and ignition system were frequently reported.
2. **Cooling System**: Overheating was a common problem, especially in models with the big-block engines. The cooling system sometimes struggled to keep the engine temperature in check.
3. **Brakes**: The disc brakes, although advanced for their time, could sometimes be prone to issues such as uneven wear and brake fade.
4. **Transmission**: Some owners experienced problems with the manual transmission, including difficulty shifting and synchro issues.
5. **Body and Paint**: The fiberglass body panels could develop stress cracks over time, and the paint quality was sometimes inconsistent.
6. **Suspension**: The suspension components, particularly the rear leaf springs, could wear out and lead to handling issues.

Despite these common faults, the 1965-66 Corvette Stingray remains a highly sought-after classic car, cherished for its performance and design.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The Chevrolet Corvette has gone through eight generations since its introduction in 1953. Here is a brief overview of each generation and the trim levels available:

1. **C1 (1953-1962)**: The first generation, known as the "Solid Axle" Corvette, had trim levels like the base model and the high-performance "Fuelie" with fuel injection.
2. **C2 (1963-1967)**: The second generation, known as the "Sting Ray," featured trim levels such as the base model, the high-performance L84 with fuel injection, and the iconic 427 big-block models.
3. **C3 (1968-1982)**: The third generation, known as the "Shark," offered trim levels like the base model, the LT-1, the ZR1, and the L82.
4. **C4 (1984-1996)**: The fourth generation introduced trim levels such as the base model, the ZR-1, and the Grand Sport.
5. **C5 (1997-2004)**: The fifth generation featured trim levels like the base model, the Z06, and the Commemorative Edition.
6. **C6 (2005-2013)**: The sixth generation included trim levels such as the base model, the Z06, the ZR1, and the Grand Sport.
7. **C7 (2014-2019)**: The seventh generation offered trim levels like the Stingray, the Z06, the Grand Sport, and the ZR1.
8. **C8 (2020-present)**: The current generation features trim levels such as the Stingray, the Z06, and the upcoming E-Ray](https://www.corvetteforum.com/how-tos/slideshows/c8-corvette-trim-levels-explained-1lt-2lt-3lt-1lz-2lz-3lz-924165).

Each generation brought significant advancements in performance, design, and technology, making the Corvette a beloved and iconic sports car.
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Engines
The 1965-66 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray offered a variety of engine options to cater to different performance preferences. Here are the engines available for those model years:

**1965:**
1. **327 cubic inch V8 (250 hp)**: Base engine with a 4-barrel carburetor.
2. **327 cubic inch V8 (300 hp)**: Upgraded version with a 4-barrel carburetor.
3. **327 cubic inch V8 (350 hp)**: High-performance engine with a 4-barrel carburetor.
4. **327 cubic inch V8 (365 hp)**: High-performance engine with a 4-barrel carburetor.
5. **327 cubic inch V8 (375 hp)**: Fuel-injected engine for maximum performance.
6. **396 cubic inch V8 (425 hp)**: Big-block engine introduced mid-year for even more power.

**1966:**
1. **327 cubic inch V8 (300 hp)**: Base engine with a 4-barrel carburetor.
2. **327 cubic inch V8 (350 hp)**: High-performance engine with a 4-barrel carburetor.
3. **327 cubic inch V8 (365 hp)**: High-performance engine with a 4-barrel carburetor.
4. **327 cubic inch V8 (375 hp)**: Fuel-injected engine for maximum performance.
5. **427 cubic inch V8 (390 hp)**: Big-block engine introduced in 1966 for even more power.
6. **427 cubic inch V8 (425 hp)**: High-performance big-block engine for maximum power.

These engine options provided a range of performance levels, making the Corvette Stingray a versatile and powerful sports car during those years.
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Performance
The 1965-66 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray offered impressive performance options across its range of engines. Here are the key performance specifications for those model years:

### **1965 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray:**
- **327 cubic inch V8 (250 hp)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 7.5 seconds.
- **327 cubic inch V8 (300 hp)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 6.5 seconds.
- **327 cubic inch V8 (350 hp)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 6.0 seconds.
- **327 cubic inch V8 (365 hp)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 5.8 seconds.
- **327 cubic inch V8 (375 hp)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 5.6 seconds.
- **396 cubic inch V8 (425 hp)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 5.5 seconds.

### **1966 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray:**
- **327 cubic inch V8 (300 hp)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 6.5 seconds.
- **327 cubic inch V8 (350 hp)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 6.0 seconds.
- **327 cubic inch V8 (365 hp)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 5.8 seconds.
- **327 cubic inch V8 (375 hp)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 5.6 seconds.
- **427 cubic inch V8 (390 hp)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 5.5 seconds.
- **427 cubic inch V8 (425 hp)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 5.4 seconds.

The Corvette Stingray's powerful engines, combined with its lightweight fiberglass body and advanced suspension, made it a high-performance sports car capable of delivering thrilling driving experiences. Whether you preferred the high-revving small-block V8s or the brute force of the big-block engines, the 1965-66 Corvette Stingray offered a range of options to suit different driving preferences.
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Rivals
In 1965, the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray faced competition from several notable sports cars. Here are the performance specifications of some of its main rivals:

1. **Ford Mustang**:
- **Engine**: 289 cubic inch V8 (271 hp)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 7.0 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 120 mph

2. **Porsche 911**:
- **Engine**: 2.0-liter flat-six (130 hp)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 8.5 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 130 mph

3. **Jaguar E-Type**:
- **Engine**: 4.2-liter inline-six (265 hp)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 6.5 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 150 mph

4. **Shelby Cobra 427**:
- **Engine**: 427 cubic inch V8 (425 hp)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 4.2 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 165 mph

These cars offered a range of performance levels, with the Shelby Cobra 427 standing out as one of the fastest and most powerful options available at the time. Each of these vehicles had its own unique characteristics and appeal, making them strong competitors to the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray.
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Designer/Dimensions
The 1965-66 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray was designed by Larry Shinoda, working under the direction of Bill Mitchell, who was the Vice President of Styling at General Motors - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Corvette_%28C2%29).

### Dimensions of the 1965-66 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray:
- **Wheelbase**: 98.0 inches (2,489 mm)
- **Length**: 175.3 inches (4,453 mm)
- **Width**: 69.5 inches (1,765 mm)
- **Height**: 49.8 inches (1,264 mm)
- **Curb Weight**: Approximately 3,247 lbs (1,473 kg)

These dimensions contributed to the Corvette Stingray's sleek and sporty appearance, making it an iconic classic car.
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Spares/Specialists NI
For locating spares for your 1965-66 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray in the UK and Ireland, here are some options:

1. **Claremont Corvette**: Based in Kent, England, Claremont Corvette offers a wide range of new and used Corvette parts. They have been collecting parts for over 44 years and ship worldwide. You can find more information on their [website](https://www.corvette.co.uk/).

2. **Customville American**: Located in the UK, Customville American specializes in American car parts, including those for classic Corvettes. They provide a variety of parts and accessories for restoration projects. Check out their [website](https://customville-american.co.uk/corvette-parts-uk/).

3. **eBay UK**: You can find a variety of Corvette parts for sale on eBay UK. It's a good place to search for specific parts and compare prices. Visit their [website](https://www.ebay.co.uk/b/bn_7013072681).

As for garages in Northern Ireland that can service your Corvette, here are a few options:

1. **John King Garage Services**: Located in Limavady, Northern Ireland, John King Garage Services offers car repair and maintenance services. They have experience with classic cars and can help with your Corvette. More details can be found on their [profile](https://www.usedcarsni.com/all-stock/dealers/john-king-cars).

2. **AutoVillage**: AutoVillage lists various used car dealers and garages in Northern Ireland. They can help you find a garage that specializes in Chevrolet Corvettes. Visit their [website](https://www.autovillage.co.uk/used-car/local/northern-ireland/cars/chevrolet/corvette).

3. **CarSite**: CarSite also lists used car dealers and garages in Northern Ireland. They have a selection of Chevrolet Corvettes and can help you find a suitable garage. Check out their [website](https://www.carsite.co.uk/used-car/local/northern-ireland/cars/chevrolet/corvette).
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Racing
Yes, the 1965-66 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray did compete in racing and had a notable presence in motorsport events. The Corvette Stingray was particularly successful in sports car racing, including events like the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring. The introduction of the Sting Ray design in 1963 propelled the Corvette's performance to new heights, and it continued to dominate the international sports car racing scene throughout the mid-1960s.

One of the most significant racing versions of the Corvette during this period was the Corvette Grand Sport, a purpose-built racing model designed to compete in the GT class. Although only a handful of Grand Sport units were produced, they showcased exceptional performance and aerodynamics, leaving a lasting impression in the racing world.

The Corvette's racing legacy continued to grow, with notable victories and a reputation for speed, reliability, and handling. The Stingray's success in racing helped solidify its status as a formidable competitor and an iconic sports car.
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Valuation
The value of a 1965-66 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray in the UK in 2025 can vary depending on factors such as condition, originality, and provenance. Based on recent listings, here are some approximate values:

- **1965 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C2 327 V8 Auto (Restored)**: Around £79,950.
- **1965 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C2 327 V8 Manual (Restored)**: Around £79,950.
- **1966 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible**: Approximately €66,750 (around £57,000).

These values reflect the prices for well-maintained and restored examples of the Corvette Stingray. Prices can vary significantly based on the specific car's history and condition.
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Clubs
There are Chevrolet owners clubs in Northern Ireland! One notable club is the [Chevrolet Owners Club](https://www.chevroletownersclub.co.uk/forums/), which has a dedicated forum for Chevrolet enthusiasts. You can connect with other owners, share experiences, and find valuable information about maintaining and enjoying your Chevrolet.

Additionally, you might find local car clubs and events where Chevrolet owners gather to showcase their vehicles and share their passion for classic cars.
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