The 1965 Mako Shark II was sent back to the GM Design Studio for changes and was renamed the 1969 Manta Ray. William Mitchell, the head of GM Design Staff enjoyed deep sea fishing and had a profound love of nature. While on a fishing excursion, Mitchell was inspired by the manta Ray powerfully moving through the ocean, which inspired the Corvette Mako Shark II/Manta Ray “Stingray” styling “Dream Cars”.
The Manta Ray sported more production realistic side pipes and twin rear-deck-mounted doors that popped up during hard braking to become reflective auxiliary brake lights.
