The mid-year Corvette, known as the C2, is widely considered one of the most beautiful automotive designs of all time. Its aggressive styling and potent performance cemented its legendary status decades ago. This 1966 Chevrolet Corvette Custom Convertible takes that iconic foundation and seamlessly integrates cutting-edge modern engineering. The result is a high-quality restomod that offers classic aesthetics with contemporary driving dynamics. This Silver convertible is not merely restored; it has been fundamentally re-engineered to a build standard costing well over $300,000.
A Stunning Exterior Transformation
The body of this 1966 Corvette convertible is finished in a brilliant Metallic Silver. This color choice emphasizes the sharp lines and flowing curves of the C2 Sting Ray. The paint quality is exemplary, indicating the high level of craftsmanship involved in the build. Importantly, the car retains the fundamental, revered lines of the original 1966 model.
One key feature adding to its aggressive stance is the set of C7-style 19-inch wheels. These contemporary wheels are a subtle nod to the Corvette’s modern lineage. They fill the wheel wells perfectly, giving the car a powerful, lowered look. The custom build also features a classic C2 touch, the eye-catching side-mounted exhaust. This setup ensures that the LS2 V-8 engine announces its presence appropriately.
The Foundation: A Modern Chassis
For a restomod to truly excel, the chassis must be completely upgraded to handle modern power. This 1966 model utilizes a Jamison tubular chassis, replacing the original, rudimentary frame. This custom, race-ready foundation provides vastly superior rigidity and strength. It allows the car to handle the demands of its upgraded powertrain with ease.
The suspension system is equally state-of-the-art. It features adjustable coilovers at all four corners. This setup allows for precise tuning of ride height and dampening characteristics. The combination of the rigid chassis and advanced suspension provides exceptional handling and a significantly improved ride quality. This is crucial for enthusiasts who appreciate precise driving feedback.
Contemporary Interior Comforts
The cabin has been completely reupholstered in rich Red leather, providing a vibrant contrast to the Silver exterior. This striking color combination immediately conveys a sense of high-end, custom luxury. The interior retains the dual-cockpit feel of the original C2, honoring the Sting Ray’s heritage. However, every material and surface has been modernized.
Convenience and usability are greatly enhanced by the inclusion of modern systems. A Vintage Air unit provides comfortable climate control, a critical addition often missing from classics. The car features Dakota Digital gauges, which offer classic looks with modern accuracy and reliability. SRT Hellcat door sill plates and carbon fiber trim pieces have been added. These interior upgrades make the car far more suitable for regular driving.
Stopping Power and Safety Upgrades
Handling the power of the modern V-8 requires an equally modern braking system. The custom build incorporates 4-wheel disc brakes for superior stopping ability. A high-quality Wilwood master cylinder manages the hydraulic pressure. This combination ensures consistent, reliable deceleration under all conditions.
Safety and control are prioritized through these thoughtful, high-performance upgrades. The modern braking system is leagues ahead of the 1966 factory setup. The full scope of the build demonstrates a commitment to making this Corvette genuinely capable. It can be enjoyed on a modern highway or a winding back road.
Heart of the Beast: LS2 Power and Performance
The powertrain is the crowning jewel of this C2 restomod project. It is equipped with a modern 6.0L LS2 V-8 engine. This venerable General Motors small-block is known for its reliability and potent performance. This specific engine is conservatively rated to produce 400 horsepower. Holley Chevrolet 2-piece valve covers add a custom touch to the engine bay aesthetics.
The LS2 is coupled with a desirable Tremec 6-speed manual transmission. This pairing offers the driver complete control over the power delivery. This six-speed gearbox delivers an immensely engaging driving feel that few modern cars can match. Furthermore, the combination of the 400 HP V-8, the new chassis, and the manual transmission transforms the car’s performance profile entirely. It has covered a mere 142 miles since its extensive customization was completed.
The 1966 Chevrolet Corvette Custom Convertible is a masterful blend of legendary style and modern engineering. It is underpinned by a custom Jamison tubular chassis and powered by a potent 400 HP 6.0L LS2 V-8 engine. The performance is fully exploited via the highly desirable 6-speed manual transmission. Finished in Metallic Silver over a striking Red leather interior, the car features every modern comfort, including Vintage Air. With only 142 miles since completion, this C2 custom build represents a fresh, turnkey opportunity for any collector seeking a classic with contemporary capability.
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Source: mecum.com
