Birth of a Stealth Performer: The Secretive Introduction of L88 in 1967
Explore the clandestine entry of the L88 into the Corvette family in 1967, a powerhouse that defied official Chevrolet literature. Uncover the ingenious approach of Zora Duntov, the mastermind behind Corvette’s high-performance variants, in making the 427 cubic inches of raw power available as an option, coded as L88.
A Hero’s Choice: Robert E. Baker and His L88 Corvette Saga
Embark on the journey of Robert E. Baker, a brave sailor who, upon returning from the Vietnam War in 1967, signed a contract for a brand-new Chevrolet Corvette Coupe with the potent L88 V8. Delve into the unexpected daily driving antics and drag racing victories that marked the unique life of this L88 Corvette.
Decades in Hibernation: The L88’s Resurrection and Recognition
Witness the decades-long hibernation of the L88 Corvette as it went into permanent storage in 1969, only to be resurrected in 1986 for a meticulous restoration project. Discover the accolades it garnered, including the Bloomington Gold Certification in 1996, and trace its journey through subsequent auctions.
Unprecedented Rarity: The Last Survivor of its Kind
Uncover the exceptional features that make this L88 Corvette truly one of a kind. Delight in the fact that it retains the original legendary engine, making it the last documented Chevrolet Corvette L88 coupe with the factory-installed reciprocating pistons reactor. Explore the unique specifications, including the M22 transmission, 4.56 rear, and the one-of-a-kind Sunfire Yellow shade.
The Auction Saga: From Record Highs to New Beginnings
Relive the auction saga of the L88 Corvette, from its record-breaking $2,988,888 sale in 2018 to its more recent offering in 2021. Explore the significance of its untitled status, with the original title still issued to Robert E. Burke, and witness its return to the auction floor after three years.
Power Unleashed: The Anatomy of the L88 Engine
Delve into the engineering marvel that is the 427 cubic-inch L88 engine, developed by Zora Arkus-Duntov and Roger Penske through the 1965 and 1966 racing seasons. Uncover the specifications of this powerhouse, from the reinforced iron block to the high-flow aluminum heads, cowl-induction-fed Holley carburetor, and the omission of a heater and radio.
FAQs: Answers to Curious Minds
1. Q: What makes the 1967 L88 Corvette Coupe unique?
– A: The 1967 L88 Corvette Coupe is unique as the last documented Chevrolet Corvette L88 coupe with the original factory-installed reciprocating pistons reactor.
2. Q: Who was Robert E. Baker, and why did he choose the L88 Corvette?
– A: Robert E. Baker was a sailor who, upon returning from the Vietnam War, chose the L88 Corvette for its potent power to win at drag racing.
3. Q: What accolades has the L88 Corvette received during its lifetime?
– A: The L88 Corvette earned a Bloomington Gold Certification in 1996, solidifying its recognition for excellence in restoration.
4. Q: Why is the L88 Corvette considered a rarity in the automotive world?
– A: The L88 Corvette is considered rare due to its unmatched features, including the last-of-its-kind status, original engine, and unique specifications.
5. Q: What is the current status of the L88 Corvette, and how many miles does it have?
– A: As of the latest auction in 2021, the L88 Corvette shows 356 miles on its odometer and is sold on a bill of sale. A new title would be required for road use.
