1969 Manta Ray

The 1969 Manta Ray concept was an evolution of the 1965 Mako Shark II, reworked and refined at the GM Design Studio before emerging with a new name and updated styling. William L. "Bill" Mitchell, GM’s visionary head of design, was an avid deep-sea fisherman with a deep appreciation for the natural world. While on one of his many fishing excursions, he was captivated by the way a manta ray moved effortlessly through the ocean. That moment of inspiration led to the creation of the Corvette Mako Shark II and, ultimately, the Manta Ray—both dream cars that shaped the future of Corvette design.

Though the original Mako Shark II was an aggressive, futuristic concept, the Manta Ray intr oduced refinements that brought it closer to production reality. Among its most notable updates were more practical side pipes and an innovative aerodynamic feature on the rear deck. Twin rear-mounted doors would pop up under hard braking, serving as both air brakes and reflective auxiliary brake lights—an early nod to active aerodynamics.

The Manta Ray retained the striking, streamlined body that had made the Mako Shark II famous, with its sharp, pointed nose, dramatic fender flares, and a flowing fastback roofline. It continued to influence Corvette styling well into the 1970s, particularly in the third-generation (C3) Corvette, which carried forward many of its bold design cues.

As one of GM’s most celebrated concept cars, the Manta Ray remains a key part of the company’s design legacy. Housed in the GM Heritage Collection, it stands as a testament to Mitchell’s belief that automotive design should be as elegant and powerful as the natural world itself. Even today, the Manta Ray continues to inspire, proving that some of the most breathtaking cars ever built were first dreamed up far beneath the ocean’s surface.