Stunning tribute to split-window Stingray

Rebodying a current-generation Corvette C6 to resemble a 1960s Stingray has been done before, but we've yet to see a better effort than the stunning coupe pictured alongside.

What you're looking at is the ¬¬Rossi SixtySix -- a tribute to the timeless 'Split Window' -- conceived by California-based Rossi Motor Company.

Built upon the underpinnings of a 6.0-litre C6 'Vette, it uses the standard roll hoop, roof, front and side glass, but everything else has been crafted from scratch. Changes to interior are relatively minor but include updates to the centre console area and better quality trim elsewhere.

The engine is basically standard, but a few tweaks have yielded an extra 15kW to boost peak power to 335kW, probably sufficient to guarantee far superior performance to its 1960s ancestor.

It's not merely a showpony, as Rossi Motor Company is planning a small production run, with pricing reportedly around the $US130,000 mark -- including the cost of the donor C6. Each car will be built to order, with the transformation being carried out in just five days.

While the first cars will all be coupes, a convertible variant is also in the works, according to US sources.

The Rossi SixtySix will reportedly be available in eight colours: black, red, maroon, blue, pearl white, charcoal gray and yellow. As is the case with standard 'Vettes rolling out of GM's Bowling Green plant in Kentucky, all the panels are painted off the car.

Going on these images, we'd have to conclude the Rossi crayon wielders have nailed it. The recreation of the split window is masterly, and it's hard not to like the afterburner taillights and muscular haunches.

The front end is similarly well executed, with partially concealed headlights peeping out from beneath the thrusting snout. Also check out the vented front fenders and retro-esque slimline bumpers.

All in all, an absolute knockout.

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