The L84 was the most powerful 327 availble for the 1965 Corvette thanks to its Ram-Jet Fuel Injection which was an expensive $538 option.

For competition, race customers had a range of options available to them including the N03 36-Gallon Fuel Tank, closer rear axle ratios and the C48 Heater/Defroster Delete (-100). Most cars equipped like this came with either L78 or the L84 with Ram-Jet Fuel Injection.

All 1965 cars received new rocker panels, a blacked out grill with horizontal bars, a function vertical louvers behind the front wheels. Minor upgrades to the 1965 model year included a power antenna, redesigned seats, standard disc brakes, a telescoping steering wheel, new dashboard gauges and optional side exhausts.

Standard colors for the year were Tuxedo Black, Ermine White, Nassau Blue, Glen Green, Milano Maroon, Silver Pearl, Rally Red, Goldwood Yellow and Crocus Yellow.

Major options included Genuine Leather Seats ($80.70), Auxiliary Hardtop ($236.75), Air Conditioning ($421.80), Powerglide Automatic Transmission ($199.10), M20 4-speed Manual Transmission ($188.30), Side Mount Exhaust System ($134.50), Cast Aluminum Knock-Off Wheels ($322.80) and an AM/FM Radio ($203.40).

Story by Richard Michael Owen

1965 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray Coupe L78 396/425 HP Gallery

See full 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray Coupe L78 396/425 HP Gallery

An iconic Corvette design cue that was inspired by jet fighters is the dual, wraparound cockpit. Introduced when Americans were obsessed with space flight, the wraparound cockpit instantly conveyed purposeful performance. Today, the CorvetteÕs interior still conveys the carÕs sporting intentions, with easy access and visibility of the critical controls.

1965 Chevrolet Corvette. (06/29/2012)