The 1967 Corvette stands as a testament to American automotive ingenuity and design, frequently lauded by sports car aficionados for its distinctive and individualistic character. This model year, the culmination of the second-generation Corvette (C2), often referred to as the Sting Ray, showcases a blend of rarity and iconic features that set it apart from its contemporaries and predecessors. The ’67 Corvette, available both as a Sting Ray Sport Coupe and Convertible, immediately captivates with its unique combination of attributes, making it a highly sought-after classic.
The allure of the 1967 Corvette is not defined by a single element but rather a harmonious collection of design and engineering choices. The signature retractable headlights, a hallmark of the C2 generation, disappear seamlessly at the flick of a switch, contributing to the car’s sleek profile when not in use. The body, crafted from weather-resistant fiberglass, ensures durability and longevity, while the protective wraparound bumpers add a touch of practicality to its sporty demeanor. For those seeking even more performance, Corvettes equipped with the formidable 427 Turbo-Jet V8 engine in 1967 received a special hood featuring a distinctive cut-away bubble, instantly signaling the power beneath.
Further distinguishing the ’67 Corvette are subtle yet impactful design updates. Bright wheel trim rings and center caps add a touch of elegance to the wheels, while a newly designed front fender louver enhances the car’s side profile. At the rear, wide back-up lights, centrally positioned in the rear panel, improve visibility and contribute to the car’s refreshed aesthetic. Beyond aesthetics, the 1967 model year also incorporated numerous new standard safety features, reflecting a growing industry-wide focus on occupant protection.
For those drawn to the fastback silhouette, the 1967 Corvette Sport Coupe offers a sweeping, contoured roofline that exudes dynamism and sophistication. The doors extend gracefully into the roof, thoughtfully designed to ease entry and exit, a practical consideration often overlooked in sports car design. Stepping inside the ’67 Corvette Coupe reveals an interior as meticulously crafted as its exterior. A fully carpeted luggage area, complemented by a hidden compartment for valuables and tools, provides surprising practicality for a sports car, extending behind the comfortable front bucket seats. True to its sporty nature, the newly designed parking brake lever is conveniently positioned on the center console, readily accessible to the driver. Overhead, a new vinyl-covered foam-and-fiber-cushioned headlining, complete with niches for the padded sun visors, adds a touch of refinement and comfort to the cockpit. These interior details collectively enhance the feeling of individuality and bespoke luxury within the 1967 Corvette Coupe.
The 1967 Corvette Convertible caters to those who prefer open-air driving exhilaration. Buyers had the choice of a folding soft top, available in black, white, or a new teal blue for 1967, or a removable hardtop that could be color-matched to the exterior. For ultimate versatility, specifying both tops was an option, offering all-weather driving enjoyment. Adding a touch of further sophistication, a black vinyl roof covering became available for the first time on the removable hardtop, enhancing the convertible’s elegance.
Both the Coupe and Convertible models of the ’67 Corvette benefited from new personal touches and safety enhancements. A four-way hazard warning flasher, a welcome addition for roadside emergencies, activated all directional signals simultaneously. The lane-change signal, another new feature, allowed for momentary activation of the turn signals with a light touch of the lever, automatically canceling upon release, improving convenience and safety during lane changes.
Performance was, and remains, a core element of the Corvette DNA. The 1967 Corvette delivered on this promise, starting with the standard 300-horsepower 327-cubic-inch V8 engine paired with a 3-speed fully synchronized transmission. However, for those craving more power, the engine options escalated dramatically, reaching up to a staggering 435 horsepower. Further enhancing the driving experience were features like a newly designed gas filler door and distinctive Corvette emblems, bright metal body and door sill moldings with black accents, and a palette of ten Magic-Mirror exterior colors, including four new hues for 1967: Elkhart Blue, Lynndale Blue, Goodwood Green, and Marlboro Maroon, allowing for a high degree of personalization.
Stepping inside any 1967 Corvette was an immersive experience in a cockpit designed for driving pleasure. The all-vinyl bucket seats, featuring a grain pattern reminiscent of genuine leather, provided both style and comfort. Narrow front and side bolsters on the backrests and foam-cushioned seats offered excellent support, cradling occupants comfortably. Bright metal moldings trimmed the backrest tops and sides, as well as cushion side panels, adding a touch of visual flair. For an even more luxurious feel, genuine leather seat trim was available in five colors – black, red, bright blue, dark blue, or saddle, depending on the chosen exterior color, allowing for a truly customized interior.
The instrument panel of the ’67 Corvette was a driver’s delight, thoughtfully designed and safety-padded. It housed a comprehensive array of gauges essential for the performance-oriented driver. The prominent speedometer and tachometer were centrally positioned for easy viewing, alongside a trip odometer that recorded up to 999.9 miles. Ammeter, oil pressure gauge, and electrically operated temperature and fuel level gauges provided crucial engine performance data at a glance. Two panel indicator lights enhanced safety: one flashing red when the parking brake was engaged with the ignition on (also monitoring hydraulic pressure balance during braking), and another warning if the headlights were activated but not fully rotated to the open position. Newly styled controls, capped with smooth, contoured knobs, added a final touch of refinement to the dashboard layout.
Beyond the instrument panel, numerous other safety and convenience features were integrated into every 1967 Corvette. The hood release handle and door locks were repositioned for improved accessibility. Sliding air vent controls, located on either side of the vertical center console, allowed both driver and passenger to independently regulate airflow. Positive latches ensured the folding seatbacks remained securely in place. Seat belts with retractors and push-button buckles offered both safety and ease of use, clipping neatly to the side of the center console when not in use. Additional convenience features included crank-operated ventipanes, a blended-air heater-defroster with a 3-speed blower, bright metal door grips and pulls, a locking glove box door that doubled as a handy tray, a cigarette lighter, and a rally-type electric clock with a sweep second hand. Deep-twist, color-keyed carpeting covered the entire exposed floor area, further enhancing the interior’s luxurious ambiance. Anchors for optional front seat shoulder belts were located in the body inner quarter panel, and the steering wheel featured the rich appearance of walnut wood.
To further personalize the 1967 Corvette, a wide range of optional and custom features were available. These included a Four-Season air-conditioning system, an AM-FM radio with a new 31-inch fixed-height antenna, a telescopic steering wheel, a dual side-mounted off-road exhaust system with bright metal casings, Strato-ease headrests, power brakes, power steering, power windows, special cast-aluminum wheels, and whitewall or red-stripe tires, allowing buyers to tailor their Corvette to their exact preferences.
The engine lineup for the 1967 Corvette was expanded, offering a spectrum of V8 powerplants to suit various driving styles and performance aspirations. The highlight for many Corvette enthusiasts was the enhanced 427 Turbo-Jet engine. For 1967, three versions of this potent 427-cubic-inch engine were offered, all distinguished by a special bubble hood and two of which were brand new and equipped with three 2-barrel carburetors in a row. The pinnacle of this trio was the 435-horsepower variant, boasting mechanical valve lifters and a special performance camshaft, along with a high 11.0:1 compression ratio. A 400-horsepower 427 was also available with triple 2-barrel carburetion but utilized hydraulic lifters and a high-performance camshaft for a smoother, yet still powerful, operation. Rounding out the 427 options was a 390-horsepower version with a 4-barrel carburetor, hydraulic lifters, and a high-performance cam. These two 427 engines featured a 10.25:1 compression ratio.
Several engineering refinements contributed to the durability and efficiency of the 427 Turbo-Jet engines. These included extra-wide-base main bearing caps for enhanced crankshaft support, premium aluminum main and connecting rod bearings, large valves for improved cylinder head breathing, and individual intake and exhaust ports, all working together to optimize combustion and exhaust flow. All 427 V8 engines shared a bore of 4.251 inches and a stroke of 3.86 inches, with modified-wedge combustion chambers designed to maximize piston force and minimize heat loss to the cylinder walls.
The standard engine in the 1967 Corvette remained the 300-horsepower 327-cubic-inch V8, with a 350-horsepower version of the same 327 block available as an upgrade. The 300-horsepower engine employed a general-performance camshaft and a 10.0:1 compression ratio, while the 350-horsepower version featured a high-performance camshaft, a 4-barrel carburetor with a special aluminum intake manifold, and an 11.0:1 compression ratio. Both 327 engines utilized hydraulic valve lifters. The standard engine oil capacity was five quarts (including the filter), while the higher-performance engines required six quarts with the filter.
Transmission options for the 1967 Corvette were diverse. A 3-speed fully synchronized gearbox was standard with the 300-horsepower 327-cubic-inch engine. A 4-speed manual transmission with a 2.52:1 first gear ratio could be ordered with the 300-, 350-, 390-, or 400-horsepower engines, while a close-ratio 4-speed with a 2.20:1 first gear was available for the 350-, 390-, 400-, and 435-horsepower V8s. For drivers seeking more relaxed cruising, a Powerglide automatic transmission was offered with the 300-, 390-, and 400-horsepower engines. Five rear axle ratios were available, depending on the engine and transmission combination, allowing drivers to fine-tune the Corvette’s performance characteristics. A Positraction rear axle, optional with specific ratios, directed engine power to the wheel with the most traction, enhancing grip on slippery or uneven surfaces.
The 1967 Corvette’s exceptional road-holding ability was a defining characteristic, stemming from a sophisticated combination of chassis and suspension components. The braking system, suspension, frame, and body were engineered to deliver sports car handling and control. Notably, the ’67 Corvette featured standard disc brakes at all four wheels, a relatively rare feature at the time. These Sport-Master brakes utilized hydraulic caliper units with 11.75-inch vented rotors, providing substantial stopping power. Wider rim wheels (15 x 6.0), larger ventilation ports, optimized airflow around external surfaces, and heat-dissipating internal fins helped to maintain brake coolness and reduce brake fade. Weight transfer during braking resulted in a 65% front and 35% rear braking ratio. The parking brake system was mechanically operated, employing separate shoes and drums within the rear disc brake assemblies. A crucial safety feature was the dual master cylinder brake system, standard on all 1967 Chevrolets, providing independent hydraulic circuits for the front and rear brakes. In the event of pressure loss in one circuit, the other would maintain stopping power, while a pressure-sensitive switch activated a brake system warning light on the instrument panel.
The fully independent suspension system of the 1967 Corvette contributed significantly to its handling prowess. Variable-rate coil springs at the front effectively absorbed small bumps, while also providing firm control during more demanding maneuvers. The suspension geometry, incorporating anti-dive characteristics and a stabilizer bar (0.75-inch diameter, or 0.875-inch with 427 engines), ensured composed handling even on challenging road surfaces. The rear suspension was equally advanced, with each wheel acting independently to absorb shocks and maintain contact with the road. Unsprung weight was minimized by mounting the final drive assembly directly to the frame, reducing wheel hop and improving power transfer. Each rear wheel was located by three connections: a trailing arm from the frame to the axle support, a strut rod from the differential case to the axle supports, and the double-universal-jointed axle shafts. This intricate system managed acceleration and braking forces while minimizing camber and tread changes. A transverse nine-leaf variable-rate rear spring further refined the ride, providing both comfort over small imperfections and stability during more aggressive driving.
The 1967 Corvette’s body framework was constructed with a combination of steel and fiberglass. Where metal framework would have detracted from the Corvette’s sculpted body lines, fiberglass was applied and bonded to the body panels. Door sealing and locking mechanisms were engineered to a high standard, effectively keeping out weather elements. Passenger-guard two-position door locks prevented unintentional door opening. The Magic-Mirror acrylic lacquer finish of the 1967 Corvette was renowned for its depth and durability, resisting fading, staining, chipping, and chalking, maintaining its lustrous appearance for years.
In conclusion, the 1967 Corvette represents a high point in American sports car design and engineering. Its blend of striking aesthetics, luxurious interior, potent engine options, and advanced chassis technology solidified its place as an icon. Whether opting for the Sting Ray Sport Coupe or the exhilarating Convertible, the ’67 Corvette offered a unique and highly personalized driving experience, making it a truly individualistic and desirable classic car.
Exterior Colors: Tuxedo Black, Ermine White, Elkhart Blue, Lynndale Blue, Marina Blue, Goodwood Green, Marlboro Maroon, Rally Red, Silver Pearl, Sunfire Yellow
Interior Colors: Black, Red, Bright Blue, Dark Teal Blue, Saddle, White/Black, Green, White/Bright Blue
| Engine Bore & Stroke | Horsepower & Torque at RPM | Carburetion & Induction System | Compression Ratio | Camshaft & Lifters | Transmission | Standard | Positraction |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 327-cu.in. V8 4.00X3.25 in. | 300 @ 5000 360 @ 3400 | 4-Barrel High-Flow Air Cleaner | 10.0:1 | General Purpose Hydraulic | 3-Speed 2.54:1 low4-Speed 2.52:1 low Powerglide | 3.36:1 3.36:1 3.36:1 | 3.08:1 3.36:1 3.08:1 3.36:1 |
| 327-cu.in. V8 4.00 x 3.25 in. | 350 @ 5800 360 @3600 | 4-Barrel High-Flow Air Cleaner | 11.0:1 | High Performance Hydraulic | 4-Speed 2.52:1 low4-Speed 2.20:1 low | 3.36:1 3.70:1 | 3.36:1 3.55:1 3.70:1 4.11:1 |
| 427-cu.-in. V8 4.25 x 3.76 in. | 390 @5400 460 @ 3600 | 4-Barrel High-Flow Air Cleaner | 10.25:1 | High Performance Hydraulic | 4-Speed 2.52:1 low4-Speed 2.20:1 low Powerglide | 3.08:1* 3.36:1* 3.36:1* | 3.36:1 3.08:1 3.55:1 3.70:1 |
| 427-cu.-in. V8 4.25 x 3.76 in. | 435 @ 5800 460 @ 4000 | Triple 2-Barrel High-Flow Air Cleaner | 11.0:1 | Special Performance Mechanical | 4-Speed 2.20:1 low | 3.55:1* | 3.36:1* 3.70:1* 4.11:1* |
*Available with Positraction only
