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.