1966 Corvette 427
The 1966 Corvette 427 represented the biggest change to this classic sports car since its introduction in 1953. It was the best Corvette to come out of Chevrolet to that point with better seating for driver and passenger, more space, a better ride and handling, and most importantly, the best level of performance yet. Today, the 1966 Corvette 427 is huge with collectors.
The greatness of the 1966 Corvette 427 begins with the design. The styling came from the Stingray racer from 1959 to 1960. Unique elements on the sports car included hidden headlights, a ducktail aft section, peaked fenders, and a fastback coupe body style. It was by far the coolest looking car on the road in its day.
In addition to the new and refreshed styling, the 1966 Corvette 427 was more rigid than its predecessors and stronger as well. It handled much better, thanks to the addition of independent rear suspension with a transverse leaf spring. It was more comfortable for the driver and the passenger and had more space for luggage and other items.
Of course, the most important improvements to the 1966 Corvette 427 were the performance updates. In addition to the improved suspension and handling, the new engine was big and powerful. The 427-cubic inch engine was introduced in 1966 and was an option for other full sized Chevrolets as well as the Corvette. It grew significantly from the previous year’s 396-cubic inch engine. The L36 version of the engine for the sports car was rated at 390 horsepower and 460 foot-pounds of torque. Used for racing only, the L88 engine got a whopping 560 horsepower.
Thanks to the new engine, the improved comfort and ride, and of course, the updated and sleek styling, the 1966 Corvette 427 set sales records for the Corvette brand. Chevrolet sold 21,513 units, which was two times as many as the previous two years for the car.
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