L71 427/435. Engine stamp matches VIN, correct JE suffix code for 427/435/4-speed. Spectacular restoration in original colors. Added power steering to make it easier to drive, otherwise completely stock. Gorgeous and fast!

Thanks to a cost-no-object frame-off restoration about 135 miles ago, this gorgeous Corvette convertible presents extremely well. Reviewing the original trim tag shows that code 976 Marina Blue is this car’s original color, and there are few better choices on the Mid-Year ‘Vettes. With the black stinger on the big block hood, it’s simultaneously graceful and predatory, the pinnacle of Corvette development in the 1960s. The restoration returned the car to probably better-than-new condition throughout, so it doesn’t have the imperfections that judges need at the highest levels, but nobody’s going to be disappointed with how this car looks. Gaps are very good, the finish is miles deep, and someone spent a great deal of time block sanding that fiberglass to get it so straight. From any angle, this car shows extremely well. All the chrome was refinished and side pipes with correct covers give it the right soundtrack to match its looks. You’ll note that all the lenses and emblems were replaced and yes, the headlight doors are 100% operational. This is a very well done Corvette.

The interior also matches the trim tag’s code 414 bright blue, the perfect complement to the Marina Blue bodywork and a great alternative to the more common black or white choices. Everything inside the car is new, including carpets, door panels, seat covers, dash pad, and any other soft parts. Experts will note that headrests were added because the owner preferred the look, and the custom-made teak wheel ($800!) is slightly smaller in diameter to make it easier to slide into the driver’s seat—not a big deal with power steering. The gauges were fully restored and are all fully operational, including the clock and the 6500 RPM redline tach, which is correct for the L71. There’s also a factory AM/FM radio that works like it should and a set of plastic floor mats to keep the carpets clean. Overhead there’s a new black convertible top that fits beautifully, doesn’t need much effort to latch properly, and can be stowed in just a few seconds once you get it right. Of course, if you’re using your Corvette correctly, you’ll never need it—the soundtrack is just too glorious to leave the top up.

The 427 cubic inch L71 engine was rebuilt to stock specs and runs superbly. It is based on a correct 3904351 HI PERF casting with 4-bolt mains and a casting date of May 3, 1967 (the car was slated for assembly on May 17 but it looks like it got pushed into June, which isn’t unusual). The stamping pad shows a May 16 assembly date and a JE suffix code, which is correct for an L71 with a manual transmission, and the serial number matches the last six digits of the car’s VIN. It’s neatly detailed with Chevy Orange on the block, heads, and valve covers (yes, painted valve covers are correct for an L71), as well as a trio of Holley 2-barrel carburetors under that distinctive triangular air cleaner. It’s well-tuned, too, because it lights off easily without any fussiness and the carburetors work properly with nice throttle response. It’s fresh, so we haven’t abused it or run it hard, but it has exactly zero bad manners. A lot of money was obviously invested in getting it right.

The Muncie M20 4-speed manual transmission is not original to the car but it is date code correct showing a C721 (March 21, 1967) build date. It, too was, rebuilt and offers the kind of bulletproof reliability that the L71 demands. Out back the rear end is coded FA (3.70 gears) with an assembly date of May 12, 1967, so it is likely original to the car. The aforementioned power steering system is a correct 1967 Corvette setup and it connects to a nicely detailed front end with new brakes. The fiberglass floors are in excellent condition, correct markings were reproduced on the springs and frame, and the hardware is new. Proper Rally wheels are fitted with 205/70/15 blackwall radials for a period look but updated ride and handling.

An L71 that you can actually drive without worries, beautifully finished, and expertly tuned. Trailer queens are fine, but driving is where this car truly shines. Get in and start having fun, call today!

Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to purchase.