History
Chevrolet’s new L78 396/425 HP big-block was big news when it arrived as a fresh production option in 1965. After two years into production, the second-generation body style was among first in line to receive the race-bred engine design, one that would initiate the legacy of ultra-performance Corvettes. Introduced in mid-March 1965, (VIN# 12864) the L78 big-block was installed in 2,157 Corvettes, of these 748 were coupes, before production ended that summer. Also the first big block option was made available in fewer than 2,000 full-size Chevrolets that year. At 425 HP this Mark IV Turbo-Jet was the highest-rated 396 CI displacement engine Chevrolet had ever built. A second milder version of the Mark IV 396 under code L37 was used in the Z16 Chevelles released in mid-year, but Corvette was the only year for the 425 HP L78. Backed with a Muncie 4-speed, the car features 4-wheel disc brakes, power steering, side exhaust, and knock-off style wheels, accented by Firestone-type gold line tires.
