The First of Its Kind to Hit the Auction Block.
A significant piece of American automotive history is set to cross the auction block at Mecum’s Monterey 2024 event: the 1967 Chevrolet Corvette L88 Convertible. As the first production Corvette L88 ever built, this car is not only a collector’s dream but also a legendary race car with a storied past. With its iconic Tuxedo Black finish, this L88 is one of only 20 produced in 1967 and the only one in this color, making it a truly unique specimen.
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The 1967 Corvette L88 Convertible is one of the most historically significant L88s ever made. It was campaigned by the renowned racing duo Tony DeLorenzo and Jerry Thompson, competing in the A-production class in 1967 and later in the B-production class during the 1968 and 1969 seasons. The car quickly established its racing credentials, securing second place at the 1967 Daytona Beach SCCA Runoffs and later winning the 1982 Canadian Western GT Championship. Sponsored by Owens-Corning and Hanley Dawson Chevrolet, this Corvette L88 became a formidable force on the track, further cementing its status as a legend in the world of motorsports.
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This L88 Convertible has been meticulously preserved and restored by Naber Brothers, maintaining its original integrity and authenticity. It retains its original trim tag and Protect-O-Plate, both affirmed by Al Grenning/CCAS, and comes with the original 1967 title. The car has earned numerous accolades, including the Bloomington Gold certification in 1984, multiple NCRS Top Flight awards, and the Zora Arkus Duntov Mark of Excellence award in 1985, making it the first 1967 Corvette to achieve this honor.
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The car’s illustrious history is well-documented, with five three-ring binders containing letters of testimony from Tony DeLorenzo, detailed ownership history, race grids, race results, and various judging certificates. The Corvette has been featured extensively in publications and has made multiple appearances in the Bloomington Gold Special Collection, solidifying its status as one of the most celebrated L88 Corvettes ever.
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The significance of this Corvette L88 Convertible extends beyond its rarity and racing pedigree. As the first production L88, it represents the pinnacle of Chevrolet’s engineering prowess in the 1960s, showcasing the performance potential of the Corvette as a true racing machine. The L88 engine, a 427/430 HP V8, paired with a 4-speed manual transmission, delivered exceptional power and speed, making it a favorite among racers and enthusiasts alike.
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With just 20 L88 Corvettes produced in 1967, this Tuxedo Black Convertible stands out not only for its unique color but also for its incredible provenance. It has been editorialized in numerous reputable publications, including Corvette: A Piece of the Action, Hemmings Muscle Machines, and Automobile Quarterly’s Quatre Foil magazine, among others. Its inclusion in the Franklin Mint’s Precision Models and various other collections further underscores its importance in the automotive world.
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For collectors and enthusiasts, the opportunity to own the first production 1967 Corvette L88 Convertible is nothing short of extraordinary. This car is not just a piece of automotive history; it is a symbol of the golden era of American racing and the enduring legacy of the Chevrolet Corvette. As it crosses the auction block at Mecum’s Monterey 2024 event, all eyes will be on this legendary L88, ready to add another chapter to its storied history.
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This great vehicle is selling at Mecum Monterey. Visit their site to learn more about this and their other consignments.