A novel 1969 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray ZL-1 Convertible is about to move the block at an RM Sotheby’s public sale in Phoenix, Arizona, on Jan. 16.
The Monaco Orange drop-top is the one considered one of its sort. And it is considered one of simply two factory-documented ZL-1 Corvettes constructed for 1969, and the one convertible to get the ZL-1 remedy, an possibility that added a race-derived 427-cubic-inch V-8 engine to the C3 ‘Vette.
1969 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray ZL-1 Convertible (picture by way of RM Sotheby’s)
In keeping with the L88 engine, the ZL-1’s 427 options aluminum block and heads, the latter with an “open chamber” design geared toward expanding chronic, plus redesigned and beefed-up engine internals. In keeping with engines utilized in Can Am racing, Common Motors introduced the ZL-1 possibility for homologation functions, and did not actually intend to promote any street automobiles to shoppers.
Serving to to dissuade shoppers from checking the ZL-1 field on their order bureaucracy used to be the $4,718 worth ($3,000 of which used to be the ZL-1 bundle itself), which used to be greater than two times the price of a base Corvette in 1969. Along with the engine, patrons were given power-assisted heavy-duty brakes, heavy-duty suspension, and a Positraction limited-slip differential. Creature comforts to be had on lesser Corvettes, similar to a heater, air con, radio, and tool guidance, were not to be had at the ZL-1.
1969 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray ZL-1 Convertible (picture by way of RM Sotheby’s)
That used to be simply advantageous for John W. Maher of Leechburg, Pennsylvania, who took supply of this automotive on Dec. 30, 1968. He meant to race the Corvette, and went directly to compete in quite a lot of hill climbs, auto crosses, and drag races in Western Pennsylvania till 1972.
Maher pulled the ZL-1 out of garage in 1989, had it reconditioned, and endured to force and display it till after all promoting the auto in 2007. The ZL-1 has since been absolutely restored, attaining the Bloomington Gold certification coveted by way of Corvette creditors, however nonetheless has its authentic engine. In keeping with its rarity, well-documented historical past, and the standard of the recovery, RM Sotheby’s expects the ZL-1 to promote for $2.6 million to $3 million at public sale. That isn’t out of line for uncommon Corvette variants just like the later ZR2 convertible, which stay favorites of creditors.