The Chevrolet Corvette, bound to become the American sports car par excellence, was produced from 1953, just six months after the unveiling of the first prototype at the New York Auto Show, where it had attracted huge interest and enthusiasm.
 
To keep production costs down, the iconic compact and shapely bodywork was built with fiberglass, a revolutionary choice for the time, and suspension and chassis were derived from Chevrolet sedans together with their reliable inline 6-cylinder engine.
 Thanks to the engine positioned very far back, and the passenger compartment moved towards the rear axle, weight distribution was optimal.
 
In 1955, to respond to critics from the buyers, which considered the six-cylinder engine to be underperforming, a 195 hp small block V8 engine was introduced, which grew over the years reaching 360 hp in the fuel-injected versions.

The design was updated over the years, introducing a more aggressive front end with two pairs of circular headlights, abundant chrome, side air intakes and a new interior.
 
This beautiful 1962 Corvette, the last year of production for the first generation before the launch of the completely different new C2, offers important aesthetic and mechanical improvements compared to previous models, starting from the legendary 327 V8 engine, the Powerglide automatic transmission and the more sober and modern design.
 
Thoroughly restored in the United States before being imported in Italy a few years ago, this C1 features a highly attractive bodywork, professionally restored and repainted in its rare original Fawn Beige colour.
 
The interior has received a meticulous and respectful total restoration and appears in very good condition, with a remarkable dashboard and flawless upholstery.

The mechanics, with the 250 hp 327 engine and 3-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, have been thoroughly overhauled and the seller assures that the car is efficient and very pleasant to drive.

Registered with the ASI (Italian Historic Automotoclub), this Corvette is accompanied by a Certificate of historical and collectible relevance and Italian registration documents.
 
Rare, special and beloved throughout the world, the first generation Corvette is one of the most iconic and significant sports cars ever produced, the forebear of a series of iconic models that represent the maximum expression of the American concept of sports car.

This example in nice condition, restored with care and expertise in the United States and maintained with love and attention in Italy, represents an unmissable opportunity to get behind the wheel of an exciting, special car of great historical relevance.

Coming from the United States, this Corvette was imported into Italy in 2019 after receiving a thorough restoration.
 
Coming with updated Italian registration documents, it has been registered with the ASI (Italian Historic Automotoclub) since 2021 and is accompanied by a Certificate of historical and collectible relevance.

This car will be MOTd by the seller before delivery to the buyer.

The interior of this Corvette, professionally restored a few years ago, appears in very good condition, with well-aligned panels and a great attention to detail.
 
The spectacular dashboard is divided into two symmetrical bays, divided by a central tunnel which houses the clock and the original Wonderbar radio, an expensive option when new.
The beautiful panoramic windshield of the early Corvettes offers excellent visibility.
 
In front of the driver, framed by the beautiful steering wheel with three steel spokes and leather-wrapped rim which has retained a wonderful patina, the rich and complex instrument panel includes a large semi-circular speedometer, a forward-positioned tachometer and individual auxiliary indicators.
 
The beautiful body-set seats and the door cards have been reupholstered in period-correct materials and appear in very good condition, complemented by nice plush carpets with Corvette logo and by the intact and clean soft top.
 
On the outside, the lines of the 1962 C1 immediately appear more serious and purposeful than that of previous models, with less chrome and a cleaner, more coherent design.
 
On this fully restored car, the iconic and unmistakable lines of the C1 Corvette are highlighted by the bright and brilliant new paint, which reveals flawless surfaces and highlights the many fascinating styling details that enrich the dynamic lines of the car.
 
The front is very impressive, with four circular headlights and a large black grille. The tapered tail, already very similar to that of the following C2 Corvette, is enriched by small chrome half bumpers and four circular headlights. The opening trunk is an early model feature and was not available again on any Corvette until 1998.
 
On the dynamic and sporty sides, the bold side slits, the aluminium finishes at the base of the doors and the brilliant chrome knock-off steel wheels attract attention and admiration.

Being the last evolution of the first generation, produced a few months before the launch of the following C2, the 1962 Corvettes feature much more advanced mechanics than the previous models, starting from the new 250 hp 327 engine, bound to become one of the most famous eight-cylinder engines of all time, equipped with a high-performance camshaft and a more reliable four barrel Carter carburettor, which on this car is coupled to the acclaimed Powerglide automatic transmission.
 
Opening the front-hinged bonnet, the engine compartment appears clean and tidy.
The seller informs us that all the mechanics were carefully restored in the United States just before the car was brought into Italy.
 
During the restoration, the engine of this Corvette was disassembled and fully overhauled and the seller assures that everything is in perfect working order.
 
The braking system has been thoroughly overhauled, has been bled and is equipped with new cylinders.

 
 

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.

✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic may refer you to a third-party shipping company. For more details, email [email protected]. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.