For the 1967 model year, Chevrolet introduced the most powerful Corvette to date – the L71 427 cubic inch V-8. With 11:1 compression, a solid-lifter camshaft, large valve heads, and triple Holley carburetors, the L71 delivered 435 bhp at 5,800 rpm. Coupled to a close-ratio four-speed gearbox, the 427/435 delivered monumental performance and, for the first time ever, a showroom stock Corvette was capable of a sub-13 second quarter mile.

In its review of the new 427/435 model, Car & Driver described the Corvette’s acceleration as “a turbine-like swelling surge of power that never misses a beat all the way up to its top speed of over 140 mph.” Not only was the L71 fast in a straight line, its independent suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, and optional Positraction rear end made it a well-rounded sports car that rivaled the finest European offerings.

The 427/435 Coupe presented here is a wonderfully original, unrestored example, presented in Marlboro Maroon over black and desirably optioned with the M21 close-ratio gearbox and 3.70:1 Positraction rear axle. This Corvette’s history can be traced back to January 1967, when Russell Majors purchased it new from Pollard-Ravenscroft Chevrolet in Van Nuys, California. Like other 1967 Corvettes sold new in California, this car was equipped with Air Injector Reactor (A.I.R.) smog equipment, designated by option code RPO K19.

Remarkably, the 427/435 Coupe remained in the hands of its first owner until 1995, when it was sold to East Coast Corvette collector Lawrence Sachs. The consignor is the Corvette’s third private owner and the car presents today as a well-preserved survivor, showing less than 29,000 miles on the odometer and displaying a charismatic patina. The Marlboro Maroon paintwork shows some checking and flaws consistent with factory lacquer paint, while the original interior shows few signs of wear. The Corvette retains its original glass and numerous other date-coded components, including the carburetors, alternator, manifolds, and the rarely seen California-market emissions (A.I.R.) system. It even still wears its 1967-issue black license plates with dealer-supplied frames and is accompanied by its jack.

Consistent with its condition, this Corvette is offered with important original documentation including the original tank sticker, Protect-O-Plate warranty booklet, owner’s manual, AM/FM Radio User manual, and the rare Sun, Air and Wheels supplement supplied with A.I.R. equipped cars. The history file contains period photographs, service records, copies of previous titles, registration, and insurance papers, as well as Classic Car Affirmation Services (CCAS) certifications for the cylinder case, engine pad stamping, and trim tag.

The 1967 Corvette Coupe, particularly the top-of-the-line 427/435 model, ranks among the most iconic and collectible automobiles of its era. A well-documented and unusually optioned example such as this, preserved in fine original condition, is a rare find indeed. Here is a car that ought to appeal to any collector with an eye for outstanding unrestored sports cars.