1965 vs 1966

[James G.]

Re: 1965 vs 1966

If I remember correctly, 1965 was the lowest number of coupes produced of all mid years. Don H.

Yes Don, 8186 cars. My favorite year. especially fuel injection. This topic was covered very well by all .

[Mark L.]

Re: 1965 vs 1966

The biggest difference that is a real biggy for me is that in 66 you got the dreaded A.I.R. smog system installed on all California bound cars. This included air pump with feed-pipes to each exhaust, screwed up vacuum advance, exhaust gas recirculation, and other subtle wacko tuning differences. Due to all this the car ran hotter. BTW, the correct numbers matching engine block stamping will indicate that it is/was a A.I.R. California car. Most people have junked all that crappy smog hardware, so if you are looking for judging points, avoid a 66 A.I.R. car. And that is too bad, because you can find a lot of well preserved cars in California; its the climate, silly.

Don't lose hope, I found a nice 65 coupe. Regards, Elliott

Just to correct a small inaccuracy. The 425 hp engine did not require the AIR in CA in 1966.

[George J.]

Re: 1965 vs 1966

I think it depends on what type of engine you are looking for. If a Big Block, the 427 is a monster, and iconic. If you want a small block, do you want Fuel Injection? If so, '65. If you want a small block with a carb and solid lifters, '65. When I was searching, I wanted either a '66 427, or a '65 Fuel Injected car.

[Gary C.]

Re: 1965 vs 1966

1965 L78 396/425 Coupe, only 740 built.

[Bill L.]

Re: 1965 vs 1966

I always liked the 365HP option small block in '65..... Not an FI car but a bit more hairy than the 350HP car.....

Just learn to adjust the valves!!!!

Regards
Bill

[Philip A.]

Re: 1965 vs 1966

I always liked the 365HP option small block in '65..... Not an FI car but a bit more hairy than the 350HP car.....

Just learn to adjust the valves!!!!

Regards
Bill

When I was on the hunt for my mid-year I narrowed it down to a 1966 427/425 coupe. After several years of looking at junk (and fakes), I came across a nicely restored real 1965 327/365 (original motor) coupe. I purchased the car and after almost 20 years still have no regrets. Steve B you can't go wrong with either a 65 or 66 providing you buy the right car. Make sure a knowledgeable NCRS member looks the car over pre-purchase, I did.

[Joseph C.]

Re: 1965 vs 1966

To me the '65 fuelie is the ultimate corvette. Highest horsepower small block, disc brakes and great handling. The interior knobs have a nicer look than in '66 also. That being said only avid corvette fans would notice the difference between the 2. But then the red, white and blue fuel injection lettering can not be had on a 66. Just my 2 cents.

Joe

[Roger H.]

Re: 1965 vs 1966

It depends on the options you want. Three of the most desirable are fuel injection, side exhaust, and knock-off wheels. All three were only available on the '65. I should add that I have a '65 and mine came with none of these. I added knock-offs. If you're interested in a coupe, I can tell you that the ventilation fan does keep the interior cooler.

[Steven B.]

Re: 1965 vs 1966

Thanks Joseph, my '58 was a fuelie and was an absolutely beautiful car and engine. As for the '65, that would be a great thing to find and thanks for the info.

[Danny P.]

Re: 1965 vs 1966

Hi all, I'm looking to purchase and I don't want to get into the minutiae of either the '65 or '66, but I just want any thoughts of one over the other. I don't have any possible candidates as this will be a 2021 purchase. Is there any real differences that one would say don't purchase because...? I'm also looking at a coupe instead of a convertible. Any reason to purchase one over the other would help. I was a member here when I purchased my '58 in 2004 and never forgot the great advice and help. Thanks in advance, Steve

Steve i like the 66 better because of New engine L72 427/425 Hp, Hood design, Hood Emblem, gas door , 66 is just a nicer looking car over all.

[Terry M.]

Re: 1965 vs 1966

Steve, I am partial to coupes as I believe they are the most iconic looking...especially mid-years. 1965 is the last year for fuelies, first year for big blocks and first year for 4-wheel disc brakes so there are some desirable features. 1966 has different engine options and one thing that makes them special (IMO)...one year color Mossport Green. I am currently restoring my 1965 Fuelie Coupe (Maroon) but a 1966 Mossport Green Coupe with a 427 would be high on my list. Good luck with your search.

Terry

[James G.]

Re: 1965 vs 1966

I know three 65 FI coupes for sale. real cars, with NCRS judging, one a DUNTOV, all in California

[Steven B.]

Re: 1965 vs 1966

I know three 65 FI coupes for sale. real cars, with NCRS judging, one a DUNTOV, all in California

[James G.]

Re: 1965 vs 1966

call me 909-557-4870 call

[James G.]

Re: 1965 vs 1966

Steve, i sent you a PM