1968 James Garner Corvette L88 Convertible Racecar

[Steve Shauger]

Corvette Mike is offering a historic 68 L88 owned and raced by James Garner’s American International Racing (AIR) team. Here's some history on this amazing Corvette.

James Gardner AIRacing1968 L88
Vehicle Overview
Generation: C3 Corvettes (1968 - 1982)
Secret Vault: Yes
Year: 1968
Make: Chevrolet
Model: Corvette L88
Body Style: Convertible
Exterior Color: Blue
Interior Color: Black
Transmission: 4-Speed Manual
Stock Number: NA
Price: $0
Drivetrain: RWD
Engine: L88 427/430hp
Location: Off Site
Color: Blue with White Stripes
Interior: Black
Engine: L88 427/500+ hp
Transmission: 4-Speed Manual

Step into automotive history with this iconic 1968 L88 Corvette, famously part of James Garner’s American International Racing (AIR) team. This remarkable vehicle blends Hollywood glamour with high-octane performance, capturing the spirit of late 1960s racing.

In November 1967, three factory-built L88 Corvettes rolled off the assembly line in St. Louis, destined for Garner’s AIR team. These stunning Le Mans Blue convertibles were among the first to feature the groundbreaking L88 engine, equipped with closed-chamber aluminum heads. Acquired through GM’s Central Office Production Orders (COPO) system, these Corvettes were meticulously tailored for high performance.

After being picked up at Gene Jantzen Chevrolet, the cars made their way to California, driven by notable racers like Dick Guldstrand and Bob McDonald. Once in California, the engines were prepared by the renowned Travers & Coons (TRACO) for racing. At Daytona, the AIR cars outqualified all competitors in their class, showcasing their raw power, although mechanical issues ultimately affected their race outcomes.

The #44 car, the 22nd off the assembly line, faced rear differential problems, resulting in a 29th place finish despite multiple changes. Following Daytona, the AIR team shifted gears, opting for Lola T70 Mk II coupes for the remainder of the season. The Corvettes were sold, with the #44 car eventually ending up in the hands of mobile home manufacturer John Crean.

This remarkable Corvette has a storied racing lineage, having been driven by ex-fighter pilot Gerry Gregory, who competed in the ARRC runoffs at Riverside Raceway. Subsequent owners, including Gene Cormany and Jim Herlinger, continued to race and modify the car, adding to its legacy.

After a seven-year restoration, the #44 Corvette debuted at the National Corvette Restorer Society (N.C.R.S.) show, earning recognition and participating in historic events. Notably, Dick Guldstrand drove it at the Laguna Seca Historics in 1999 and 2002.

The AIR team, which included Bob Bondurant and Sandy Sandin alongside Garner and Guldstrand, epitomized the fusion of Hollywood and motorsports. Garner’s passion for racing ignited during the filming of “Grand Prix,” where he received invaluable training from Bondurant.

On the 10th anniversary of James Garner’s passing, we celebrate his legacy by offering this highly acclaimed 1968 L88 Corvette in its original livery. This car is not just a vehicle; it’s a tribute to an era of racing that combined celebrity with speed.
Here's a link to the L88 Corvette page:

https://corvettemike.com/used-corvet...e-l88-racecar/
(714) 630-0700 1133 N. Tustin Avenue Anaheim, CA 92807

[markinnaples]

That's one of the coolest Vettes ever, GLWS, wow.

[Motorhead848]

My good friend Dave restored this car for his brother Jim. Jim Herlinger was an avid racer. Race the car back in the mid 70s in scca. Then sold it and in the late 80s early 90s, Jim wanted to get back into racing so they set out to find his old race car. And they did!! Once completed. Jim raced the car many times at the historic races over the years in Monterey ca. in the mid 2000s he sold the car at auction to pursue other racing endeavors. Sadly he passed a few year later. RIP Jim.

[markjohnson]

Picked up directly across the street from the Corvette Assembly Plant at Gene Jantzen Chevrolet. The Full-Size Assembly plant was also next to the Corvette plant and also used Gene Jantzen as a convenient delivery location for special cars. They were just driven across the street to this dealership!