From the introduction of the 265 cubic inch V8 in 1955, Chevrolet supported racing efforts with its Corvettes, albeit covertly. Corvettes were prepared for competition and then fielded by various well known teams and drivers. Successes at the 12 Hours of Sebring were followed by Briggs Cunningham launching the first true international effort, preparing three Corvettes for Le Mans in 1960, with one car winning its class and finishing 8th overall.

Chevrolet tested a variety of performance components designed for competition, and then achieved success by offering various 'RPO' (regular production option) packages that could be specified on a build sheet.

SCCA racers would opt for 'RPO 687', a heavy duty brake and steering package which included finned cast steel brake drums, semi-metallic brake linings, as well as a quicker steering ratio. Only 233 cars left the factory in 1961 with the RPO 687 option; this car retains all of its "big brake" components. Rarer sti