Corvette Model Gallery
1965 Coupe
This would be the first year for significant changes. The fender depressions which had been non functional for the first two years became three vertical slots designed to vent hot air from the engine compartment. The rocker panels would change again losing all of its ridges except one. The last vestige of the ‘63 hood decoration would disappear as the hood became smooth except or the center-raised strip which also added strength to this body panel. A second hood with a wider center area would be used for this years new optional 396 cid Turbo-Jet big block engine but this option appeared in less then 10% of Corvettes sold that year. As mentioned before the gas cap and stock hubcaps changed again but the optional wheels which finally became factory available in ‘64 were ordered by less then 5% of buyers. A side mounted exhaust system became available for the first time year and by 1967 18% of all Vettes would be ordered with this attractive option. Mechanically the new 396 engine, which was a thinly disguised 427, was the big news but another important change was the introduction of disk brakes as standard equipment. Internally both seat and inner door panels were redesigned and the instrument faces became flat black circles. Production was up only slightly from the year before and the most popular color, the new Nassau Blue by a wide majority.
The model
Mike built this neat 1965 Pro Street coupe using Monogram kit # 2925 as a starting point. This model is a "slammer". This means it has no engine or interior detail.
The paint is the same Milano Maroon used in the stock '65.
The graphics were painted on and clear coated with Dupont 380s clear lacquer.
Do you hear the rumble of the engine? I do!
Comments:
Mike: "This is the only "slammer" I've done. I usually build replica stock models, but I wasn't happy with the paint on this one so I re-did it as a Pro Streeter to go along side the stocker. Kind of a neat contrast between the 2 cars."
The lack of engine or interiors on this model is more than compensated by its killer paint job and those beautiful wheels. This model has an intimidating presence and stance, the way a bad vette should be... Ismael
If you would like to contact Mike on this model his e-mail address is: FREDEBASSETT@prodigy.net
Page updated 09/16/99