1965 Chevrolet Corvette C2 Sting Ray
A 1965 Chevrolet Corvette C2 Sting Ray 396, built up from a sound road car and transformed over more than four years into a full FIA-specification racing machine. The chassis was seam-welded, gusseted, and fitted with a bespoke roll-cage; the engine was rebuilt to exceed 500 bhp; and the drivetrain was strengthened for endurance competition with a twin-plate clutch, Muncie racing gearbox, and a 36-gallon fuel cell. FIA homologation was completed in 2012, and the car was subsequently converted to UK road-legal use.
Ownership
- 2024-08-24Auction saleEstimate £50,000 – £70,000
- → 2014Previous custodian who commissioned FIA buildpartial documentation
This owner undertook the full FIA-specification preparation over approximately four years, culminating in inspection and approval for FIA papers in 2012. The car was then sold through the auction house.
- 2014 →AuctionCurrent vendorpartial documentation
Acquired the car from the consigning auction house, competed in a small number of races, then had the car converted to UK road-legal status with an MOT and insurance for everyday use. Initiated the process of renewing FIA papers prior to offering the car for sale.
Competition
- —Goodwood Revival
The car was built with a Goodwood Revival invitation specifically in mind, and period-correct details were sourced to satisfy eligibility requirements; no confirmed entry or result is stated.
- —Various races (post-2014)
The current vendor completed a small number of race starts after acquiring the car in 2014 before deciding to withdraw it from active competition.
Maintenance & restoration
- 2008Restoration
Comprehensive FIA-specification build commencing from a sound road-car donor: chassis sandblasted, seam-welded and gusseted, bespoke T45 roll-cage fabricated and fitted, full interior and exterior paint applied.
Work spanned approximately four years from 2008 to 2012; detailed specification is recorded in the car's accompanying history file.
- 2008Engine rebuild
Engine stripped, rebuilt and prepared for racing, reportedly producing in excess of 500 bhp; exact specification documented in the history file.
Carried out as part of the broader FIA build programme.
- 2008Modification
Drivetrain uprated for endurance use: twin-plate clutch, Hurst shifter, oil-cooled Muncie racing gearbox with twin coolers, GM Positraction 3.5:1 limited-slip differential, adjustable race suspension, dual-calliper disc brakes, bespoke wiring loom, 36-gallon foam-filled racing fuel cell, FIA-specification wheels and bonnet with quick-release hinges, lightweight Perspex side windows and headlamp covers, period Stuart Warner instruments, NASCAR race seat in red leather.
Period-correct components were specifically researched and sourced with historic racing eligibility in mind.
- 2012Inspection
Car inspected and approved to receive FIA historical technical papers following completion of the race preparation.
- —Modification
Car converted to UK road-legal specification after the current vendor decided against continued racing use; MOT obtained and vehicle insured for daily driving.
Conversion carried out sometime after 2014.
- —Inspection
Process of renewing FIA homologation papers initiated; if not finalised before the auction, renewal is to be completed afterwards.
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