USA vs USA — 1965 vs 1967
| GT350 R-Model | Corvette Sting Ray L88 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 306 hp | 430 hp |
| Torque | 329 lb-ft | 450 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 6,997 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.7 sec | 4.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 135 mph | 170 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.0 sec | 12.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,800 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,489 mm |
| Length | 4,613 mm | 4,445 mm |
| Units Produced | 562 | 20 |
| Original MSRP | $4,547 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $5,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
The 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model counters with stronger collectibility, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Among Sports Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model and 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88 is one for the ages. These Muscle era machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 430 hp compared to 306 hp, a 124-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Shelby GT350 uses a V8 OHV (Ford 289 Hi-Po) displacing 4,736 cc, while the Chevrolet Corvette relies on a V8 OHV with 6,997 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88 edges ahead at 4.9 seconds versus 5.7 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 20 units built, the 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88 is considerably scarcer than the Shelby GT350's 562 examples. On the collector market, the 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88 commands a significant premium over the 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1965 Shelby GT350 R-Model rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.