The 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe stands as a high-water mark for the Sting Ray generation. This specific example, finished in rare Tuxedo Black, is a verified Triple Crown winner. It has earned the industry’s most prestigious honors, including Bloomington Gold and NCRS Top Flight. Such awards confirm a level of originality that few other survivors can match. Beyond its aesthetics, this coupe is one of only 316 produced with J61 drum brakes. This rare mechanical choice makes it a standout for collectors of production anomalies. Every inch of the “no-hit” body consists of the original GM born-with fiberglass. It is a time capsule of 1960s American sports car engineering. Currently estimated between $120,000 and $140,000, it heads to the Kissimmee 2026 auction in January. The car represents a rare opportunity to own a fully documented, award-winning icon.
Documented Provenance and Authentication
Authentication is the foundation of value for any high-tier 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe. This vehicle comes with an Al Grenning CCAS engine stamp and trim tag affirmation. Such third-party verification provides absolute certainty regarding the matching-numbers 327/350 HP drivetrain. The paperwork trail is exhaustive, including the original window sticker and dealer invoice. It even retains the validated Protect-O-Plate and the original dealer bill of sale. Originally delivered by Fourth Street Motor Sales in DeKalb, Illinois, its history is fully known. This level of documentation is why it has consistently scored at the highest NCRS levels. It also includes the official NCRS Performance Verification and the Chevy VetteFest Gold Spinner award. Few Corvettes in existence can boast such a complete and validated resume of excellence.
Classic Tuxedo Black Interior and Features
The interior of this Sting Ray remains as striking as its black exterior finish. It features a factory-correct black vinyl cabin that appears in showroom condition. The dashboard houses a standard AM/FM radio complemented by a functional power antenna. Visibility is enhanced by Soft Ray tinted glass and the Comfort/Convenience Group package. This includes the day/night rearview mirror and factory-installed back-up lights. Every interior component, from the shifter to the glovebox door, is a factory-correct type. The odometer shows 69,713 actual miles, reflecting a life of limited and careful use. Currently, the car sits on finned aluminum knock-off wheels with white-stripe radial tires. However, the original wheels, hubcaps, and vintage tires are included for the purist. This interior serves as a perfect cockpit for rowing through the four-speed gears.
Matching Numbers L79 Performance Specs
The mechanical heart of this Corvette is the legendary L79 327/350 HP small-block V-8. This engine was famous for bringing high-performance hydraulic lifters to the Corvette lineup for the first time. It produces 350 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and a substantial 360 lb-ft of torque. Power is managed by a Muncie four-speed manual transmission and a 3.70:1 Positraction rear end. An off-road exhaust system provides a deeper, more aggressive note than the standard pipes. This car retains most of its born-with mechanical parts, including the alternator and distributor. Even the non-D.O.T. U.S. Royal spare tire and original jack tools remain with the car. The engine bay is a masterclass in factory-correct detailing, featuring original-style hoses and clamps. This drivetrain combination offers a perfect balance of high-revving power and street-friendly reliability.
1965 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe Summary
This 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe is a blue-chip asset for the serious automotive investor. The rare Tuxedo Black over Black color combination is inherently desirable on the open market. Its status as a Triple Crown winner places it in the top tier of Corvettes. The rare J61 drum brake option adds a layer of exclusivity that sparks conversation. With its original fiberglass and matching-numbers drivetrain, its integrity is beyond reproach. The exhaustive documentation provides a clear window into its sixty-year journey from the dealership. It is ready for continued judging or to be the centerpiece of a world-class collection. This Sting Ray represents the peak of 1965 production standards and historic preservation. It will likely remain a benchmark for the model year for years to come.
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Source: mecum.com
