1966: Penske Sells Corvette Grand Sport #002 to Wintersteen
In February 1966, Roger Penske helped his friend George Wintersteen get into sports car racing by selling him the outdated Grand Sport Corvette Roadster #002.
Penske’s Perfect Timing
Roger Penske’s timing could not have been better. He enjoyed a strong driving career without a major crash. Because of this, many believed he was on his way to even bigger things. However, Penske sensed it was time for a change. In 1965, he stepped away from racing to focus fully on his business. By contrast, most drivers stayed behind the wheel much longer. Even so, Penske followed his instincts. By 1966, at just 29 years old, he had already launched Penske Racing. Along the way, he became one of Zora Arkus-Duntov’s fastest privateer drivers, which also gave him a direct connection to Chevrolet.
A Rare Chance to Buy Two Grand Sports
Later on, Penske had the opportunity to buy both Grand Sport Roadsters, GS #001 and GS #002. Chevrolet was using GS #002 as a show car, while the full-race version wore a bluish-silver finish and ran one of Chevy’s experimental all-aluminum 377 engines. Because of this, it drew the interest of Penske’s friend George Wintersteen, who wanted a powerful, track-ready machine.
After purchasing the car, Wintersteen sent it straight to Penske’s shop. There, the crew repainted it white with a blue center stripe. Eventually, they also installed a new 427 L88 engine. For a time, Wintersteen had a great run racing the Grand Sport at several tracks. Later, when he wanted a faster, newer car, he sold the Grand Sport for just $6,700. Naturally, that price is tiny compared to its value today. Wintersteen has often said, “I wish I’d never sold that car!” And truly, many racers and collectors have said the same thing about a special car from their past.
A New Life at the Simeone Museum
Today, the Wintersteen Grand Sport lives at the Simeone Museum in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Every month, the museum holds “Demonstration Days,” which always bring out an eager crowd. During each event, Fred Simeone selects several cars that fit a theme. The team fuels them up, checks the oil, and moves them to the museum’s two-acre asphalt courtyard.
A Show You Can Hear, Smell, and Feel
First, Dr. Simeone explains what makes each car special. Next, Kevin, the museum’s lead mechanic, drives each car around the courtyard. The museum cannot run them at high speeds, but even so, the experience is unforgettable. As they circle the yard, you see the cars move, smell the fuel, and hear them come alive—barking, growling, and sometimes even belching.
Still the Loudest of Them All
As a result, the Wintersteen L88 Grand Sport Corvette becomes a fan favorite during Demonstration Days and other special events. Best of all, it has earned a fierce reputation as the LOUDEST car in the entire museum. And honestly—as it should be! – Scott
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