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1965 Chevrolet Corvette

The '65 Corvette? A total classic! Sharp, sporty lines, that iconic Sting Ray silhouette, made it a symbol of '60s cool. A major step forward for Chevy, boasting improved performance and a refined interior. Still turns heads today – a true American legend.

The 1965 Chevrolet Corvette: An Icon in Automotive History

Welcome to an in-depth journey exploring the legendary 1965 Chevrolet Corvette, a car that embodies the pinnacle of American automotive design and engineering. Known for its dynamism and charm, this model remains a coveted piece of automotive history. But let's not rush things—there's a lot more beneath the surface, from its powerful engine to its iconic status in pop culture.

Photo of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette

1965 Chevrolet Corvette Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Chevrolet Corvette Worth?

Original MSRP :

Outstanding

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$118,000

Clean

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$85,000

Average

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$62,700*

Rough

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$47,500

1965 Chevrolet Corvette Specs

Body Maker: Fisher
No. Of Doors: 2
Passengers: 2
Model Number: 19437
Length: 175.1 inches
Width: 69.6 inches
Height: 49.6 inches
Wheelbase: 98 inches
Type: Turbo-Fire V8, valve-in-head, Downdraft 4-barrel, Synchronous 4-speed manual
Displacement: 327 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 4 & 3 1/4 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 10.5 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 300@5000
Horsepower Rated: 51.2
Torque: 360@3200
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic
Block Material: Cast alloy iron
Engine Number Location: On front right side of block.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Carter
Type:
2 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
10 inches
Gear Ratios:
4
Gear Ratios First:
2.56 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.91 to 1
Gear Ratios Third:
1.48 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
2.64 to 1
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.36 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Transverse leaf springs
Service Type: 4 wheel hydraulic disk
Service Front Size: 11.75 inches
Service Rear Size: 11.75 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 11.75 inches
Type: Premium
Wheel Size: 15
Tire Type: 4-ply
Tire Size: 7.75 x 15
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 20 Gallons
Oil: 5 Quarts
Rear Differential: 3.75 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:194375S100001 to 194375S123562
Total Digits:13
Digits 1:Make
Digits 2-3:Series
Digits 4-5:Body style
Digits 6:Model year
Digits 7:Assembly plant
Digits 8-13:Production number
Tuxedo Black, Ermine White, Nassau Blue, Glen Green, Milano Maroon, Silver Pearl, Rally Red, Goldenwood Yellow
Sport Coupe: Opt
Powerglide Automatic Transmission: Opt
Auxiliary Hardtop For Convertibles: Opt
3-speed Manual Floor Shift Transmission: Opt
Power Windows: Opt
Air Conditioning: Opt
Power Brakes: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
AM-FM Radio (U69): Opt

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History of the 1965 Chevrolet Corvette

The 1965 edition of the Chevrolet Corvette heralded a new dawn in design and performance. This model is part of the Corvette's second generation, often revered for its aesthetic and engineering advancements, serving as a bridge from the legendary 1963 split-window Stingray to future innovations.

Model Year Changes

This year marked a significant leap forward with the debut of the formidable big-block 396 cubic inch V8 engine, offering unprecedented power for a sports car of its era. It wasn't just about velocity, though. The exterior got upgrades like a redesigned grille and the storied 'stinger' hood, capturing the essence of 1960s cool.

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Notable Specifications

Performance enthusiasts will appreciate the Snapchat-level of brief exhilaration from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.9 seconds, a feat back in the day that made drivers feel like they've strapped themselves to a rocket . This car wasn't just fast—it was an experience much like hearing your favorite song unexpectedly on the radio.

Pop Culture and the Corvette

The 1965 Corvette wasn't merely a car—it was a statement, echoing throughout films, TV shows, and more.

Film Appearances

Films like Apollo 13 and Corvette Summer are just a couple examples where Corvettes have roared onto the screen, becoming not just part of the backdrop but part of the narrative .

Television and Music

The Corvette was yet again in the spotlight with TV shows like Route 66, solidifying its image as an emblem of freedom. Meanwhile, its musical influence spanned rock 'n' roll to hip-hop, making appearances in lyrics and videos indicative of a spirit free from the mundane .

1965 Chevrolet Corvette Gallery

Photo of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette

Popular Figures Who Own the 1965 Corvette

This car's allure crossed the garage threshold into the broader world. Let's meet some famous enthusiasts.

Jay Leno

Jay Leno, the comedic car aficionado, is no stranger to Corvettes. His garage, a Mecca for auto enthusiasts, proudly houses several classic Corvettes, showcasing his penchant for these timeless vehicles.

George Clooney

George Clooney gives the Corvette a Hollywood nod, adding a touch of silver-screen glamour to its steel frame. His ownership reflects a deep appreciation for American muscle and style .

Scott Altman

You might not expect a Space Shuttle pilot among Corvette enthusiasts, but Scott Altman's taste for the Corvette adds a layer of high-flying prestige to its appeal . This isn't just a car—it's a rocket ship for the earthbound explorer.

Fun Facts about the Corvette

Beyond its specs and celebrity ties, the Corvette carries with it a treasure chest of fun tidbits:

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    The 1965 model year introduced all-wheel disc brakes, a step-up in the stopping department .

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    The National Corvette Museum loves this car so much that they've dedicated a whole section to its pop culture impact .

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    Ever noticed the 'coke-bottle' shape? That design struck a chord, blending aesthetics with aerodynamics.

Interested in Buying or Selling a Classic Car?

When you are ready to buy or sell a classic vehicle, knowing the past is essential. Here's why getting a classic car history report and a build sheet matters:

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    Salvage Information and more

Tools like a or a can guide you on this legacy ride.

Whether you're calculating the horsepower under the hood or diving into its performance records, remember: the 1965 Corvette isn't just a car—it's a cultural cornerstone, a piece of history in motion .

For any classic you come across, a is your road map to history. And if you're dealing with a truly vintage number, perhaps a or even a might be handy. Buying and selling classics is more than a transaction—it's a journey.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The '65 Corvette? A real head-turner! It's easily recognized by its split rear window, a design element that really set it apart. Think of it like a pair of stylish sunglasses – it's instantly iconic. That, and the Sting Ray styling, you know, the sharp lines and those cool, almost aggressive-looking headlights. Oh, and don't forget the hidden headlights; those were pretty neat for the time, it's almost like a magical reveal! Beyond the looks, though, there were different engine options available; you could get a real beast of a car, so to speak, or something a bit more mellow, depending on your budget and preferences, of course.

The 1965 Corvette offered a few powertrain choices. You could get a small-block 327 cubic inch V8 in various horsepower ratings, ranging from pretty tame to seriously powerful. Picture this: you could have an engine that purred like a kitten, or one that roared like a lion! There was also a big-block 396 cubic inch V8 option for those who really wanted some serious grunt, the top of the line, really. Choosing the right one really depended on your driving style and your overall needs, you know what I mean? Some people loved the feel of that big block, it was a total different animal.

The value? Oh boy, that's a big one. Condition is everything with classic cars; think of it like a fine wine – the better it's kept, the more valuable it is. A pristine, original 1965 Corvette, especially one with desirable options like a big-block engine or a specific color combination, can fetch a pretty penny – we're talking some serious money. But a rough, neglected car? Not so much. The rarer the options, the higher the value, generally speaking. It’s like rare stamps or baseball cards. Options like a particular color, a specific interior, or the right engine really influence the price; these things can make a huge difference, you know?

Finding mechanical problems is part of buying a classic car, you know? These cars are getting up there in age, so things can break. Keep an eye out for issues with the fuel system (those old carbs can be tricky!), the braking system (safety first!), and the electrical system (lots of little wires and components). The suspension can also wear out over time, so a thorough inspection is crucial; you don't want any nasty surprises down the road. Think of it like a thorough house inspection before buying – you want to catch problems early on!

Finding parts for these beauties is pretty straightforward, especially for a popular car like the '65 Corvette. Many specialized shops and online retailers cater to classic car enthusiasts. There's a whole community of Corvette lovers out there that share parts and information; you'll find plenty of support if you are looking for that. Plus, countless restoration guides and manuals are available for owners, so you're never alone if you have to do some work yourself. It's almost like a secret society, really, full of passionate people!