1964 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray in Charlotte, North Carolina

Vehicle Description

SUMMARY

Frame off build

427cid GM Performance crate engine

F.A.S.T fuel injection

Tremec 5-speed manual

Jamison tube chassis

C4 Corvette suspension

When it comes to current automotive trends, nothing is hotter than the pro-touring movement. The blending of vintage styling and modern performance creates an undeniable appeal that has taken the marketplace by storm. When the pro-touring treatment is performed on something like a midyear Corvette, which already has a massive following, the end result is a car that enthusiasts will wait in line to buy. The demand for these cars is so strong that some builds are even commanding dollar figures well beyond their OEM-restored siblings. With its blend of classic C2 styling and thoroughly modern underpinnings, this '64 Corvette coupe follows the pro-touring formula perfectly. Every inch of this recently completed build has been completely reworked to include a full Jamison tube chassis, fuel injected big block, Tremec five-speed manual transmission, modernized interior, and a killer sound system to accompany you on the back roads. If you want a Corvette that utilizes the best of the modern aftermarket to create an unforgettable driving experience, take a number and a closer look at this awesome coupe.

BODYWORK/TRIM

First impressions are important and this C2 makes one of the strongest possible. Originally Ermine white with a blue interior, the car now wears a brilliant code of bright red paint that better suits its aggressive lines. The red paint is accented by a gloss black Stinger, creating one of the most legendary looks in the Corvette catalog. Since the goal was to create a head-turning show-quality car, all the usual "perfectly imperfect" Corvette ideology went right out the window in favor of creating a shell that is better than new. The fiberglass body now features smooth panels, impressive panel alignment and a profile that is nearly seamless from certain angles.

The great thing about building a pro-touring Corvette is that the aggressive look is already there. At the front of this C2, a body-width stainless grille sits inside of show worthy stainless trim which is bordered by two chrome-trimmed parking lights, and a razor blade style chrome bumper. Above that grille, a later 1967 Stinger-style hood has been added and detailed with a gloss black strip, fresh chrome trim, and black-inlayed '427' badges. Behind the hood, like-new glass is cleared by bright stainless wipers and framed by excellent looking stainless trim. Below, flared front fenders offer two horizontal indentations for some classic midyear styling. Pristine bowtie mirrors, correct chrome door handles, shielded side pipes, and new "Fuel Injection" badging complete the profile. At the back of the car, two centered reverse lamps combine with four traditional Corvette tail lights to illuminate a chrome trimmed tag bracket and two more pristine, razor blade style bumpers.

ENGINE

Flip the Stinger hood forward and you'll find a 427cid crate engine from GM Performance. Like the original 427, it features a cast iron block and forged lightweight high-flow aluminum heads. Modern touches from GM include a forged rotating assembly, 10.1:1 compression, and a high-lift hydraulic roller cam. Of course, Corvettes are about taking things up a notch, so a F.A.S.T fuel injection system has been added for some extra power and reliability. The package is dressed with a simple black Chevrolet-branded open element air cleaner which matches the black 427-branded valve covers well. Behind the air cleaner, where a chrome ignition shield would normally live, a MSD distributor now sends spark through red GM Performance wires. To the sides, spent exhaust gases are expelled through polished headers which connect to chambered side-exit exhaust for a race car-like exhaust note. At the front, an aluminum radiator cools the big block with the assistance of a single electric fan. Across from the radiator, an alternator, Vintage Air compressor, and power steering pump all spin off borrowed engine power. Turn the key and the modern mill starts with ease, letting everyone around know a beast has been awakened.

DRIVETRAIN/SUSPENSION

Take a look underneath this C2 and the true priorities of the build come into focus. For starters, the factory frame has been replaced by a satin black Jamison tube chassis. If you're not familiar with the company, their frames have been used underneath some of the most high-end pro-touring Corvettes we've carried including the "killer wide body C2": http://www.rkmotorscharlotte.com/sales/inventory/active#!/1967-Chevrolet-Corvette-Sting-Ray/133122 and the "sleek '59 roadster.": http://www.rkmotorscharlotte.com/sales/inventory/sold#!/1959-Chevrolet-Corvette/133123 Around the rigid frame, the suspension mixes C4 Corvette components with QA1 coilovers for a thoroughly modern driving experience. In the center, a Tremec five-speed manual transmission with an upgraded hydraulic clutch makes quick work of shifting with a firm direct feel that a period-correct Muncie simply can't touch. To the rear, a stock C4 differential puts the big block's power to the pavement. Braking is provided by a four-wheel disc brake setup which draws its power from the Wilwood master cylinder under the hood. Steering is equally responsive thanks to a C4 rack and pinion. At the corners, 17 and 18-inch Z06 Spyder wheels add some late-model Corvette styling to the modernized chassis. A fresh set of Yokohama S.drive high-performance tires connect the car to road.

INTERIOR

Open the fiberglass doors and you'll find an interior that continues the successful blending of classic and late-model Corvette pieces. Seating comes courtesy of supportive C5 seats wrapped In black leather while, between the seats, a classic C2 center console makes room for a chrome shifter and updated five-speed shift pattern plate. From there, a modern armrest with an aluminum-lined cup holder takes over the space. From the driver seat, stock appearing gauges monitor fuel, battery output, speed, revs, water temperature and oil pressure. To the right, a stock analog clock fills in the upper portion of the center 'waterfall' while modern air conditioning controls reside just below. The stereo is definitely a focal point of the interior, consisting of an iPod-controlled head unit by Oxygen Audio which sends signal to speakers located in the kick panels as well as a custom Sonus panel behind the seats that includes a small subwoofer. Under the fresh black carpet, a layer of Stinger Roadkill sound deadener has been installed to make sure you hear every note. From the door panels to the headliner to the wood-rimmed three-spoke wheel, every bit of the interior has received attention, making it a great place to spend time.

This Corvette is ready to be driven, shown, and enjoyed in any way you see fit. With a stout fuel-injected big block, modern Tremec transmission, impressive chassis and healthy list of modern amenities, the car is every bit as ready for a track day as it is a trip to Dairy Queen. If you've been eyeing the pro-touring movement and waiting for the right car, that car has arrived. But remember, the clock is ticking...