1969 Corvette History

Some of the visual differences on the 1969 Corvette includes the replacement of the push button door handle with a key-lock. The "Stingray" name plate is back on the fenders after performing a disappearing act in '68, and now is spelled out as one word. The rear back-up lights are now incorporated into the tail lights.

In the interior the ignition switch is relocated to the steering column. Front and rear disc brakes are offered as standard equipment, alongside carpeting and headlight washers. As far as the powerplant goes, the most significant change was the introduction of the 350 cid (L46, 350 bhp) engine, replacing the 327 cid unit.

Production for the 1969 Corvette went up just over 10 thou from the previous year (28,566), totaling an impressive 38,762 combined units, split between 22,129 Coupes and 16,633 Convertibles.

For a well assembled chronology of this year's Vette and other interesting links, be sure to check Chronology of Chevrolet Corvettes. It offers a well researched list of events that took place in 1969.