First introduced in 1953 and produced through to 1962, the C1 would debut as the first generation of the now-legendary Chevrolet Corvette sports car.
The C1 became known as the “solid-axle” generation, as independent suspension would follow with the 1963 Corvette Stingray.
With this particular Corvette belonging to the final year of C1 production, it’s a rather significant car in Chevrolet’s historical lineup.
The ‘62 model boasted the greatest performance yet and would mark the final solid-axle vehicle of its family, as well as the last Corvette to feature exposed headlights, until the introduction of the C6 in 2005.
Due to the sheer age of these legendary vehicles, very few tidy examples now exist globally, with the C1 being near-mythical here in the UK.
If you’re looking for an absolutely superb example of the very first Corvette generation for your collection, or as a truly rare weekend toy, this is a perfect choice. rwxQG5OjffJEPlWOUcanEzGUqOhpGlrEeloy5Nsi.jpeg315.41 KB
The History and Paperwork
USA import
Final year of C1 production
Previous film prop
Registered in the UK in 1996
4 previous owners in the UK
Recommissioned example
Currently maintained as part of a collection
Show winning vehicle
Invoices for recent work
V5C document present
After arriving in the UK and prior to being registered for the roads, this Corvette was used as a prop for Elstree Film Studios.
The car would later be registered in 1996, only to be seldom used and kept rather off the radar until 2016, when it would receive a thorough recommissioning, courtesy of a previous owner.
Even following the recommissioning, the vehicle was hardly used, as reflected by the incredibly low mileage shown each year between MOTs.
This beautiful Corvette would then be acquired by the current keepers in 2021, where it would be treasured as part of an impressive American vehicle collection.
Throughout their ownership, the vehicle has taken first place at 3 car shows, including the Car Gods ‘Best in Show’ award at Castle Howard. Over the last 12 months, the current keepers have also spent close to £3000 in maintenance, upgrades and replacement parts, to ensure this Corvette is as happy as ever.
After a few enjoyable adventures in this C1, the current keepers have now decided it is time to enjoy the rest of their collection, leaving this beautiful convertible to find a new home, where it will hopefully be driven and enjoyed more frequently.
As the images will reflect, this C1 shows off a truly breathtaking colour combination, with the then avant-garde red interior contrasting beautifully against the paintwork.
Much like the rest of the vehicle, the interior is of course in fantastic condition, boasting plenty of original components. Perhaps most desired of which, is the original Wonderbar radio, though no speakers appear to be currently present.
Both seats wear red well well, presenting themselves with no visible signs of wear or damage. In true ‘60s interior fashion, they’re also incredibly comfortable, leaving passengers to enjoy top-down motoring in both comfort and style.
Accompanying the seats, is a set of brand new red seat belts, a welcome inclusion to help tie the interior together.
Throughout the vehicle, you’re greeted with a new set of floor mats and clean, tidy carpeting, free from wear or damage.
Following suit, are both door cards, the dashboard and all accompanying trim pieces. All of which are adorned in striking red, no doubt a bold move back in the day, but a very desirable finish nowadays.
Although the interior is in sublime condition and can hardly be faulted for how it presents itself visually, the current keeper would like to make note of a couple of issues.
Firstly, the speedo has stopped working within the last few weeks, and the tachometer is seemingly rather jumpy. Other than the two items mentioned, all other gauges and controls are believed to be in full working order and even show no wear on contact points.
This Corvette genuinely does deserve all the praise coming its way, as the vehicle shows off a truly fantastic exterior finish.
As if to support the point, this vehicle has won 3 awards within the last 12 months alone, including the Car Gods ‘Best in Show’ award at Castle Howard. The off-white paintwork is in super condition, showing only the most minor of defects noticeable upon incredibly close inspection.
The car currently sits on a set of gorgeous 15” steel wheels, which offer a fantastic level of shine and are in brilliant condition. The wheels are wrapped in a set of Maxxis white wall tyres, with plenty of tread for the new owner to enjoy.
Being a convertible, the roof is of course a key focus.
The roof itself is in excellent condition, showing only one minor defect as pictured. Rather remarkably, the roof is an area in which the Corvette truly does stand out above its competitors of the time. The way in which the roof folds down, and tucks away seamlessly under the rear panel is truly marvellous, and far ahead of its time.
Overall, this Corvette C1 is in superb condition, with very few possible areas to fault.
With a pampering session, this could quite easily be one of the greatest examples available anywhere in the world.
Buyers will be pleased to know that this Corvette fires up right away, and performs brilliantly for its age.
As the current keeper is well-versed with classic corvettes, it has been determined that the car has undergone an engine replacement, and now boasts the largest engine available for this generation; a 327 300hp V8.
This grunty V8 is given an extra helping hand by a pair of high-performance exhaust manifolds, for better exhaust flow and power.
The V8 is paired with the now-legendary Muncie 4-speed manual transmission, affectionately known as the “Rock Crusher”.
Muncie transmissions are widely regarded as some of the all-time greatest boxes, known for their role in some of history’s finest muscle and sports cars. The transmissions were built for both durability and high performance, which of course led to their near bulletproof reliability.
Perhaps due to lack of use over the years, the external gear linkage with this C1 would benefit from lubrication and a dash of TLC to achieve flawless shifting once more.
A peek under the bonnet reveals a stunning engine bay, clearly reflecting years of expert care and attention to detail.
It is here of course that you’ll notice a Harrison expansion tank, Harrison radiator, aftermarket exhaust manifolds, and custom rocker covers. These snazzy rocker covers are period correct and are colour matched to the engine block cover.
Should the new owner wish to revert back to OEM rocker covers, the originals will be included with the sale.
This Corvette C1 is a truly beautiful car, that exemplifies everything enjoyable about ‘60s automotive culture and styling.
The car presents itself brilliantly, both inside and out, and will no doubt continue to turn heads and win awards for many years to come.
If you’re looking for the perfect addition to your collection, or fancy an incredibly rare weekend toy, look no further than this first-generation Corvette.
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