• Delivered new to California, USA
• Turbo Jet Big Block engine option
• Four-speed manual transmission
• Race-prepared in the UK
• Goodwood Revival and Silverstone Classic participant

In 1965 the Chevrolet Corvette received the legendary 396ci (6.5-litre) 425bhp Turbo Jet Big Block engine option, code L78. Offered only for the 1965 model year, this was the first time a Big Block was ever fitted to a Corvette. The Corvette offered here was specially ordered via the Chevrolet Support programme to incorporate various competition options including the aforementioned Big Block engine; M20 four-speed manual gearbox; 3.70:1 rear axle; wider track; and special suspension, while the radio and defroster were delete options. In July 1965 the Corvette was delivered to its first owners in Sunnyvale, California, Robert and Nancy Graham, who decided to preserve the car rather than race it, covering only some 41,000 miles in 30 years.

In 1995 the Corvette was bought by its second owners in California, Paige and Randy Jones, who had the car cosmetically conserved and restored mechanically, with mild tuning up to 435 horsepower and 425lb/ft of torque. The car was entered in the 1997 Steamboat Rocky Mountain Vintage Racing and later the 2002 Monterey Historic Automobile Race at Laguna Seca, performing with distinction on both occasions.

In 2007 the car was purchased and brought to the UK by renowned racing driver, Roger Wills, who had it carefully upgraded to racing specification by specialist Nick Jesty without altering its patina or originality. Modifications included fitting a Tim Adams-prepared 396ci engine of 474bhp output: an M22 four-speed close-ratio manual gearbox; an FIA approved roll cage; and adjustable racing suspension and brakes. UK registered as 'EFX 239C', the car was subsequently invited to several prestigious events including the 2007 Silverstone Classic Festival and Goodwood Revival RAC TT for 2007 and 2008, driven in 2007 by Roger Wills with former Red Bull Formula 1 team manager Christian Horner as guest driver. It was also raced at Chimay, Belgium in 2007; the Grand Prix De L'Age d'Or, Dijon-Prenois in 2008; and the Masters Racing Series, Brands Hatch in 2008.

In 2009 the Corvette became part of a private racing car collection to be preserved and displayed in a private museum. It is eligible for many Historic events including Goodwood, GTSCC, Gentleman Drivers, Spa 6 Hours, Nürburgring 500km and Le Mans Classic.

Accompanying paperwork includes an old FIA Historic Technical Passport (issued July 2007); an original 1965 Chevrolet Owner Protection Plan with Protect-O-Plate; the original 1974 Certificate of Title to the first owner; and a copy of Corvette Magazine's April 2008 edition (see pages 49-52).

Please note that this vehicle is from outside the UK. Our customs agents, CARS UK, will manage all post sale customs administration. A fee of £350+VAT will be charged on the buyer's invoice to administer both import or export customs movements. If the buyer also chooses to ship with CARS UK, this will be quoted separately. If this vehicle is to remain in the UK, it will be subject to Import VAT at the reduced rate of 5% on the hammer price. This vehicle will not be available for immediate collection after the sale and will only be released on completion of customs clearance formalities. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department.