Lot 222 - 1954 Chevrolet Corvette C1
| Lot Number | 222 |
| Registration | 560 XVE |
| Chassis Number | E54S001914 |
| Engine Number | 3835913GM9 |
| Odometer reading | 2,427 km |
| Estimate | £59,000 - £68,000 |
The legendary North American motor-car designer, Harley J. Earl, convinced GM that they needed to build a two-seat sports car after seeing the offerings from Jaguar, MG and Alfa Romeo landing in the USA from Europe; many being repatriated by GIs returning from the Second World War. In 1951, Earl and his Special Projects crew began working on a new car, which was code named 'Opel'. The result was the 1953 Corvette, unveiled to the public at that year's Motorama car show. Taking its name from a small, manoeuvrable fighting frigate called a Corvette, the first Corvettes were virtually hand built in Flint, Michigan in Chevrolet's Customer Delivery Centre. The outer body was made from what was then a revolutionary new composite material called fibreglass; selected in part because of limited steel quotas left over from the Korean War. Underneath that radical new body were standard Chevrolet components, including the 'Blue Flame' inline six-cylinder truck engine, two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission and drum brakes.
This particular example is finished in Sportsman Red with matching red hide and white wall tyres. Having benefitted from an early body off restoration, it is apparent upon viewing that this C1 has had little use since completion. The paintwork is crisp and exquisite with correct panel fitment throughout the car, the chrome is gleaming and trim delightful. The cockpit area of a Corvette C1 is superb with great ergonomics. This is a great example of a highly collectable and useable classic.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.