2026 Corvette Configurator Is Live

“Goldie,” the Riverside Gold 1969 L88 Corvette Automatic Coupe Makes History at 2025 NCRS National Convention
The Corvette world is abuzz about a legendary Riverside Gold 1969 L88 Corvette automatic coupe that stole the spotlight at the NCRS Nationals meet in Las Vegas. Scoring 98+/100, this super rare and iconic Corvette has just
achieved a stunning milestone; the most recent 98+ score for an L88 with its original engine, factory leather and side-pipes at a national NCRS event. This remarkable car has cemented its place in Corvette history.

The journey of this exceptional vehicle traces back to June 1986, when it was showcased in the prestigious Bloomington Gold Special Collection under the stewardship of noted enthusiast Ed Mueller. Later, the car joined a world-class private collection in New York and Beverly Hills featuring twelve big-block Corvettes, including four L88s. Thanks to Corvette Mike Vietro and the support of a trusted colleague, the entire collection was preserved, securing the legacy of some of the most significant Corvettes ever assembled.

In December 1996, this L88 Corvette began a new chapter under the auspices of marque maven Mike Vietro. In northern California for nearly thirty years, it stood out as the singular Corvette in a prominent muscle car collection. Earlier this year, the car was lovingly prepared and made to run at Mike’s Anaheim, California facility, specifically for NCRS judging, returning Goldie to the national stage and further illuminating its story.

With its factory rating of 430 hp—but delivering an actual 550 hp on race fuel—this L88 Corvette, affectionately known as “Goldie,” captures the true spirit of the American go-fast mentality. The car’s unmatched originality includes its original engine, automatic transmission, side-pipes, and black leather interior, all augmented by a comprehensive trove of factory documentation—even the original buyer’s deposit receipt from December 1968.

What was the original owner, George F. Vance, thinking when he ticked off 13 options for this car? As a mere 17 L88s Corvettes were produced with an automatic transmission, the Riverside Gold L88’s combination of authenticity, performance, and provenance makes it a crown jewel among the rolling gems in the hobby. With its recent NCRS triumph, this uniquely optioned Corvette stands proudly as a shining example of America’s ultimate big-block sports car. Anyone who’d like to visit Goldie may make an appointment at Corvette Mike. She loves to be stroked.

The Tale Of Two Tankers

1964 Big Tank Fuelie Coupe
Black with Silver Interior

This car was ordered by Ed Sullivan, a GM employee in the Marketing Section, from Luby Chevrolet in Denver, Colorado, around Christmas of 1963. He wanted a ’64 version of the Z06 he already owned, but with a reverse color scheme: black over silver instead of silver over black. The car was built on February 27, 1964, and delivered to him on March 6, 1964. Production had been delayed while waiting for special-order parts, and Ed even received a letter from St. Louis apologizing for the delay. By the time he took delivery, he had relocated to El Paso, Texas.

By September 1964, Ed listed the car for sale in Road & Track, running ads until late 1965. He was unable to sell it at the price he wanted. The car resurfaced in 1975, catching the attention of California racer Jack Murray. By then, Ed had moved to Oregon, and the car showed just 12,657 carefully accumulated miles.

When Jack inspected it, the car was sitting outside under a thin cover. The paint was checked and oxidized, but overall not in bad shape. In January 1976, Jack purchased the car and brought it to Southern California, where it was garaged. He displayed it at Bloomington events from 1987 through 1995, and in 1999 it was inducted into the Bloomington Hall of Fame. That same year, Jack attempted to sell it at the Road America auction, where bidding reached $225,000 but fell short. In September 2000, it went on display at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky, as part of the Concours d’Performance Exhibit.

Jack eventually sold the car for a record price, higher than any other ’64 Tanker had achieved. In February 2002, its new owner commissioned a complete body-off-frame restoration under Gary Naber in Houston. The project lasted about a year, carefully restoring original parts wherever possible while leaving the interior untouched, which remains original to this day.

This Big Tank has always been lovingly referred to as the Jack Murray Tanker, the best one ever discovered. RIP Jack

Today, it proudly resides in the showroom lobby of my dealership in Anaheim, California.

Who will be its next caretaker?

Call or message today to see this in person!

1965 White Tanker
Once again, Corvette Mike has unearthed the truly rare and unusual!
This ’65 Corvette Coupe is something that most have never seen before!

Originally delivered to Roger Dean Chevrolet in Huntington W.VA, to a Dr. J. Evan Sadler Jr. A forensic pathologist who worked for the state (think C.S.I.) The good Dr. must have fancied himself somewhat of a “White Knight” that would be able to travel all over W.VA in comfort and performance, making limited fuel stops! Because this ’65 Ermine White w/White vinyl interior Corvette is equipped with the ultra-rare 36-gallon fuel tank option. One of only 41 Coupes so equipped! It’s believed that to get this Tanker built, it required a C.O.P.O. direct from Zora himself!

It also happens to be loaded with some very desirable equipment. Such as:

 L79 327/350hp engine, Air Conditioning, M20 4-speed manual transmission, Posi-Traction rear end, Soft Ray tinted glass, Teakwood steering wheel, Telescoping steering column, Radio delete, Power brakes, Power steering, Power windows, Kelsey-Hayes knock off wheels, Goldwall bias ply tires.

Amazing factory documentation includes:
Dealer Order, Dealer Invoice, N.C.R.S. Shipping Data Report

The car has been meticulously frame-off restored and recently scored a 98pt. N.C.R.S. Top Flight and the National Convention in Las Vegas, NV! No easy feat!

And the accolades have been impressive and many:
Bloomington Gold,
N.C.R.S. Regional Top Flight, N.C.R.S. National Top Flight,
N.C.R.S. Duntov Mark of Excellence Award.

If you’re looking for a “hens tooth” that you can drive, your White Stallion has arrived!

Call or message today to see this in person!

Experience the Corvette Mike Difference

In the ever-evolving vintage car market, uncertainty is part of the game. While online auctions might appear convenient, they often leave both buyers and sellers at the mercy of chance. For almost 44 years, Corvette Mike has set the standard with unmatched, personalized service—making every transaction as enjoyable as it is successful.

No matter where you are in the world, if you own a remarkable vintage car and are considering selling, let Corvette Mike handle it with care and expertise. Our dedicated approach guarantees a smooth and satisfying experience. And for those on the lookout for that elusive classic, we provide expert guidance to help you make informed decisions while savoring the excitement of the hunt.

Reach out by phone (714-630-0700) or email (Troy@CorvetteMike.Com) today, and discover how a seasoned veteran of the vintage car scene can transform your buying or selling journey into a truly memorable adventure.