Set to cross the block at Mecum Auctions on May 16 with no reserve, this exceptionally preserved 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe represents one of the most significant surviving examples of the inaugural big-block Corvette era.
As one of just 749 coupes equipped with the legendary L78 396-cubic-inch V-8 producing 425 horsepower, the car stands as a remarkably authentic benchmark for collectors and restorers alike. Widely known among Corvette historians as “The Stud,” the late-production example is believed to be among the final first-year 396/425 HP Corvettes completed during the 1965 model year.
Built on July 23, 1965, and originally delivered through Davies Chevrolet in Glendora, California, the coupe remained within a single family for more than five decades, including over 40 uninterrupted years under the care of its original owner.
Throughout its life, the Corvette has avoided restoration, retaining its factory-applied Silver Pearl finish, original fiberglass bodywork, matching drivetrain, and an extraordinary level of assembly-line detail seldom seen on any midyear Corvette today. The unrestored drivetrain remains intact, including the original L78 big-block V-8, M20 wide-ratio four-speed manual transmission, and 4.11 Positraction rear axle.
Factory-correct components range from the rare one-year-only Holley carburetor and Delco ignition hardware to original suspension pieces, factory inspection markings, chassis finishes, and even assembly tape still present on the body mounts. It is also equipped with 11 factory options, including the F40 heavy-duty suspension package, teakwood steering wheel, and AM/FM radio, the Corvette reflects the peak evolution of Chevrolet’s first big-block sports car formula.
Beyond its preservation, “The Stud” has achieved near-mythical status within NCRS circles, serving as a reference vehicle during the development of the NCRS 1965 Corvette Technical Information Manual and Judging Guide. Despite its prominence among experts, the car has never undergone NCRS or Bloomington Gold judging and remained largely unseen publicly for nearly 60 years.
Its recent appearance at the 2025 Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals earned it the inaugural John Kraman Award for authenticity and preservation, further solidifying its status as one of the finest unrestored 1965 big-block Corvettes known to exist.
Source: Mecum Auctions
