While each generation of the Chevrolet Corvette has something cool to brag about, most enthusiasts argue that the C2 is the best iteration of the nameplate in terms of design and performance. And I agree: the second-gen Corvette is one wild and gorgeous classic.
Not only extremely sexy on the outside, especially in coupe form, but the C2 Corvette also arrived at a time when Detroit was rolling out increasingly bigger and more powerful V8 engines. Granted, the C2 debuted with a small block that did not deliver more than 360 horsepower in 1963, but that number got higher when Chevy added the big-block V8 to the lineup.
It happened in 1965 when the 396-cubic-inch V8 arrived with 425 horsepower, followed by a 427-cubic-inch V8 of similar oomph in 1966. But things got even more serious in 1967, the C2's final year on the market when Chevy unleashed the L71 version of the 427. Rated at 435 horses, it powered the meanest iteration of the C2 'Vette.
Come 2022 and the L71 is among the most desirable Corvettes out there. And it's quite rare, too, because Chevrolet made only 3,754 examples. This Marina Blue example you see here is one of them. And it's also one of those classics that soldiered on into 2022 with a numbers-matching engine under the hood.
There are no records as to how many cars like this left the assembly line, but it's safe to say that Chevy didn't make more than a few hundred L71s in Marina Blue. But it doesn't really matter because this drop-top is so gorgeous you'll instantly forget about scarcity and its ability to draw million-dollar bids at auctions.
You'll also notice that it's not one of them boring versions with black stripes and interior. Nope. This one combines Marina Blue with white hood decals and a matching soft-top for a striking contrast. The combo trickles into the cabin, too, through a blue dash and white seats and door panels.
As you might have already guessed, this Corvette is the result of a long and detailed restoration. Perhaps you won't be surprised to learn that it took the previous owner about eight years to complete.
And if you're into cool stories, the current owner purchased this Chevy while he was on vacation on the East Coast. He simply stumbled across the car as it was getting a "for sale" sign in a driveway and he simply couldn't go back home without it. Now that's what I call being in the right place at the right time.
Hit the play button below to watch this beauty shine in the sun and make sure you crank up the volume when the 427 V8 fires up at the 6:45-minute mark.
Ask Ciprian about cars and he'll reveal an obsession with classics and an annoyance with modern design cues. Read his articles and you'll understand why his ideal SUV is the 1969 Chevrolet K5 Blazer. Full profile
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