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| There was a production problem with the Corvette ‘tanker’ tanks so each one had to be re-inspected for leaks. Here you see the sign-off for the one that went to GM France. | Here’s the ‘tanker’ fuel reservoir without its big fiberglass cover. |
The ‘64 Corvette “tanker” was shipped to GM of France and still sports the original export tag on the firewall. It is believed that this Corvette was displayed at the Paris Auto Show that year. It was loaded with factory options that included the 375hp fuel injected 327 and the oversized 36-gallon tank option. Only 38 Corvettes built in ’64 had the jumbo tank.
Those two Camaros seemingly joined at the hip? The “Tin Soldier” is a COPO 9561 L72 4-speed car, purchased at Queen City Chevrolet in Ohio, and converted to a race car status soon after the original owner took delivery. Though many COPO cars have lost their original racing identity because they were restored to factory stock specs, this one embraces every bit of its racing grit.
Tin Soldier’s running buddy, “Herbie's Hugger,” was bought by Herbert DeSalve and family of Dubois, PA, to serve in the Super Stock ranks. It was ordered with an ultra-rare L89 396ci aluminum-head motor, one of 311 built in 1969. DeSalve soon traded the L89 to racer/engine builder Dick Arons for a more competitive L72 combination. Driven by Barry DeSalve, it set a record at almost every east coast track in 1969, held the NHRA speed and ET records, and won several national titles. Herbie is considered by many race historians to be one of the most significant and competitive privateer efforts. The slogan across the back of the spoiler says, "Chevy Vs The World." The DeSalve's Tri-County Speed Shop is still in business today.
