PERFECT BALANCE: This 1966 Corvette Combines the Best of Old and New With Unmatched Detailing
March 12, 2024
Posted by Barrett-Jackson
Written by independent automotive journalist Steve Statham
2024 PALM BEACH – 1966 CHEVROLET CORVETTE CUSTOM CONVERTIBLE – NO RESERVE
The trick to building a successful custom car with Resto-Mod flair comes down to striking a balance. The best cars will preserve the look, feel and presence of an original classic car, while incorporating all the modern upgrades that make contemporary vehicles safe and so much fun to drive. Lean too far in one direction, and modern parts can neutralize all the charm out of the original. Lean too far in the other, and you end up with an old car that just feels old.
Jeff Hayes Customs has a lot of experience in striking that perfect balance. He has developed a devoted following for his C2 Corvette Resto-Mods, like the custom 1966 Chevrolet Corvette convertible that will be offered at the upcoming Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach Auction with No Reserve. Although modernized in almost every way, an observer’s first impression of this car is pure mid-1960s Vette, right down to the side pipes and Stinger hood. The classic proportions of Chevrolet’s Sting Ray remain intact, the ideal canvas for Resto-Mod customization. The exterior is finished in silver with black detailing on the hood scoop and a black convertible top.
Beneath that bodywork, the updates begin with an Art Morrison chassis fitted with the latest modern suspension pieces, power rack & pinion steering, and Wilwood power disc brakes at all four corners. The powertrain has likewise been upgraded with a 540-horsepower LS3 V8 engine teamed with a 4L70E 4-speed automatic transmission. The car rolls on staggered Schott wheels, 18 inches in front and 20-inch on the rear, fitted with custom Diamond Back Classic red line tires.
Attention to detail is a hallmark of Jeff Hayes’ custom Corvettes, and a glance inside the cockpit shows why. The interior is trimmed in red leather, with carbon-fiber dash and console accents providing a nice contrast. Dakota Digital gauges and a cutting-edge AM/FM Bluetooth stereo system keep the driver informed while also enhancing the design impact. The bolstered bucket seats make for a comfortable driving environment, as does the Vintage Air system and power windows. Custom door panels and sill plates tie all the elements together.
Access to the engine compartment is via a power-actuated hood, and the detailing is just as impressive there. The polished engine components offer a nice combination of modern and vintage influences.
This custom Resto-Mod Corvette was completed in October 2020 and has always been stored in a climate-controlled garage. It has been started and brought up to temperature regularly but has only been driven 30 miles since completion. A photo build book is part of the sale.
The C2 Corvettes have long inspired daydreams among custom car fans. The winning bidder at the 2024 Palm Beach Auction won’t have to dream any longer, as this Corvette incorporates all the good stuff into one ready-to-go package. The balance between classic and modern has never looked so good. Register to bid today for the chance to make it yours.
