This is considered the last real "classic" Corvette. The first major redesign of the Corvette would occur in '63 with the introduction of the Sting Ray. Thus, 1962 had a few lasts for the Corvette. It was the last year for the solid rear axle models, an actual trunk, a power assisted convertible top, wrap-aroung windshields and exposed headlights. We did see the introduction of the 360 HP, 327 CI V8. This hefty little motor would become a mainstay for the Corvette for the majority of the decade.

There was a lot of testing and racing in '62. Duntov started testing the '63 prototype disguised in a '62 body at Sebring in January. In late spring, the Mako Shark Corvette was shown and production on the Grand Sport began. The Grand Sport was to be used in World Championship Races and completed its first test runs at Sebring in December. Chevrolet promised to build at least 100 Grand Sports by June of '63 in order to qualify it as a production car.

In July, 25 pre-production '63 models were assembled to test production equipment. They were released for promotions and the press. In late summer, 4 '63 model Corvettes, with the Z06 Special Performance Equipment raced in the L.A. Times 3-hour invitational. The coupe came in first, beating the Shelby Cobra in its own debut. In October, the '63 was released to the public and a production Sting Ray Corvette won a 3-hour race at Riverside, CA. Work on the Mako Shark II began.

DID YOU KNOW?: Two-tone paint was not offered in 1962.