Following the success of the first-generation – or C1 – Corvette, the C2 Corvette was introduced in 1963 under the leadership of Zora Arkus-Duntov. The design and styling of this new generation would mark a clear departure from its predecessor, as Larry Shinoda and lead designer Bill Mitchell translated the open-cockpit Stingray Special roadster into a streamlined fastback coupe. The C2 Corvette, dubbed the Sting Ray, promised to be a platform for continued development in the quest to build an American sports car that would rival its European counterparts.

The beautifully presented Corvette offered here features a rare and highly desirable combination of options. First retailed by Spielman Motor Sales of Brooklyn, New York, it is one of only 41 built in 1965 with the 36-gallon fuel tank (RPO N03), and one of only three “Big Tank” 1965 Corvettes known to exist in the sophisticated Tuxedo Black exterior and black interior, with its combination of options. Its fuel-injected, 327/375 hp, small-block V-8 (L84) is mated to a four-speed Muncie M20 manual gearbox and includes a Positraction rear axle (G81) and special front-and-rear suspension (F40). Additional comforts include Soft Ray tinted glass (A01), AM-FM radio (U69), and drum brakes (J61). In 1988, Daniel Rebovich acquired the Corvette and performed a high-level restoration, finishing the work in the mid-2010s. Following its purchase by noted Corvette enthusiast David Stahl in 2016, it received an NCRS Top Flight Award.

Later that year, the “Fuelie Tanker” came to the attention of Corvette authority Kevin Mackay, who had been asked by the consignor, a respected lifelong enthusiast based in Southern California, to help him find the right C2 for his eclectic collection. Upon its purchase, the consignor entrusted the rare coupe to expert restorers Corvette Mike in Anaheim, California, to further improve the car. In all, over $40,000 has been spent on mechanical and cosmetic restoration, and maintenance. A new 36-gallon fuel tank has now been fitted, and the old 36-gallon tank accompanies the car.

Also included are its NCRS judging sheets, restoration photos, paperwork documenting its ownership, manuals and jack. The Fuelie Tanker presents beautifully throughout, with a particularly impressive engine bay. Its dramatic livery, accented by forged wheels and gold-stripe tires, has made it a favorite in its museum setting. The Corvette has been cared for by the owner’s full-time staff and has been exercised and driven regularly for system maintenance. Given the rarity of this combination of options and quality of restoration, it is unlikely that another of this caliber will be offered soon.