Photos: Mecum Auctions

In 1966, the rapidly growing performance car market in North America was getting crowded. The runaway success of the Ford Mustang, as well as cars like the Pontiac GTO, the Plymouth Belvedere Satellite HEMI and even the Malibu SS, were having a measurable impact on Corvette sales. Chevrolet raised the bar by introducing a 427ci big block engine in the ‘Vette.

When ordered with either the L36 (390 HP) or L72 (425 HP) engines, the car was fitted with a unique, power-bulge hood to make room for the sizable engine. The base 327ci engines did not require, nor receive, the signature hood. With a base price under $4100, the big block options added either $181.20 or $312.85 to the total.

While the dollar figures may not sound like much, the L72 option was 7.7% of the base price. In today’s terms, that would equate to $4125 on the convertible’s base price of $53,580.

This fully restored 1966 Corvette Sting Ray has it all for the serious collector: a Triple Black color scheme with leather interior, matching numbers 427/390 HP big block, M20 4-speed and Positraction as well as excellent finish throughout.

New paint, chrome and stainless steel trim, soft top, exhaust and upgraded disc brakes with stainless steel pistons were all part of the expert restoration of this gorgeous big block convertible, which also features an AM/FM radio, full wheel covers and Gold Stripe tires.

Look for this example at the Mecum St. Charles Auction, September 16-19, 2010 at the Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, IL.