Unveiling the Legendary L88 Corvette: A Race-Bred Marvel of Automotive Engineering
At the upcoming 2024 Mecum auction in Kissimmee, a unique offering is set to captivate classic car enthusiasts—the pairing of the very first L88 1967 Corvette with the last L88-powered 1969 Corvette, presented as a single lot.
L88 Corvette
The L88 engine, introduced in 1967, was GM’s high-performance, race-oriented 427 big-block powerplant. Developed by Zora Arkus-Duntov, the L88 was a formidable racing engine with increased cam, compression, and carburetor specifications. While officially rated at 430 hp, it boasted an actual output of around 550 hp, making it a dominant force in races.
The first L88 Corvette in the lot, a 1967 convertible, holds a special place in history as the inaugural production L88 Corvette. Campaigned by Tony DeLorenzo and Jerry Thompson, it secured second place at the 1967 Daytona Beach SCCA Runoffs. Painted in Tuxedo Black, it is the only drop-top L88 in this color.
On the other end of the spectrum is the 1969 L88 Stingray, recognized as the final L88 produced on December 4, 1969. This model features a Fathom Green exterior, Saddle leather interior, and a numbers-matching L88 engine. It underwent a meticulous body-off restoration by Jim Thorpe.
Both Corvettes were part of Rick Treworgy’s extensive muscle car collection, housed at the Muscle Car City Museum in Florida. While most of the collection was auctioned in 2021, the first and last L88 Corvettes were retained as part of Treworgy’s personal favorites.
The upcoming Mecum auction provides an opportunity for enthusiasts to acquire this iconic pair, representing the alpha and omega of the L88 legacy. The auction also features an alternative option, Lot S220.1, a more budget-friendly 1969 L88 Corvette finished in Fathom Green, equipped with a Saddle Tan interior, M22 manual transmission, and various performance features.
