Set to cross the block at Mecum Auctions’ Monterey Auction on August 15, this 1965 Chevrolet Corvette L79 Convertible is a historically significant example that combines high-performance engineering with an extraordinary ownership story. Powered by Chevrolet’s highly regarded 327-cubic-inch L79 V-8 producing 350 horsepower, the car is paired with a four-speed manual transmission and finished in classic Rally Red over a black interior, making it an iconic representation of the C2 Corvette era.
Its greatest distinction lies in its provenance. This Corvette was formerly owned by Corvette Hall of Famer Betty Skelton, the legendary aviator, racer, test driver, and advertising executive widely celebrated as the “Fastest Woman on Earth.” Originally delivered to Chevrolet’s Central Office in December 1964, the convertible first served as a factory promotional vehicle for print advertising before General Motors presented it to Skelton in May 1965. The gift recognized her long-standing contributions to Campbell-Ewald, where she had worked closely with General Motors on television and print campaigns since 1956.
Skelton’s influence on Chevrolet and American motorsport extended far beyond advertising. She became General Motors’ first female technical narrator at major auto shows, helped establish Corvette News—later renamed Corvette Quarterly—and collaborated with Jim Rathmann in introducing America’s original Mercury astronauts to Corvette ownership. Her remarkable career also included completing the same physical evaluations administered to the Mercury 7 astronauts, earning the nickname “Mercury 7½.” She set numerous aviation and automotive records, became the first woman to exceed 300 mph in a jet-powered car at Bonneville, broke Cannonball Baker’s long-standing transcontinental driving record, and earned induction into 12 halls of fame, including the Corvette Hall of Fame.
The 1965 model year marked a pivotal chapter for the second-generation Corvette Sting Ray. Building upon the revolutionary 1963 redesign, Chevrolet introduced four-wheel disc brakes, significantly enhancing braking performance and elevating the Corvette’s status among the world’s leading sports cars. Combined with Zora Arkus-Duntov’s advanced independent rear suspension, the C2 Sting Ray delivered an exceptional balance of speed, handling, and engineering sophistication.
Styled under Bill Mitchell with production development led by Larry Shinoda and inspired by early concepts from Peter Brock, the 1963-1967 Sting Ray remains one of the most influential Corvette generations ever built. Early racing success against formidable rivals further cemented its reputation, making examples like this L79 Convertible—especially one with Betty Skelton’s exceptional history—among the most compelling collector cars of the era.
Source: Mecum Auctions
