Lot 228 - 1961 Chevrolet Corvette C1
| Lot Number | 228 |
| Chassis Number | 10867S101041 |
| Engine Number | MM13800 |
| Odometer reading | 6,663 miles |
| Result | Sold - £81,760 |
- Fully restored example
- Best in Class winner
- Upgrades include disc brakes and independent front suspension
- Possibly the best driving C1 in the UK
General Motors designer Harley Earl loved sports cars and was influenced by the GI’s bringing home MGs, Jaguars, Alfa Romeo’s and the like after hostilities ceased in Europe in 1945. Even the small independent carmaker, Nash Motors, began selling a two seater sports car in 1951. Earl convinced GM that they also needed to build a two seat sports car. Earl and his 'special projects' crew began working on the new car later that year which was code named 'Opel'. The result was the 1953 Corvette, which took its name from a small, manoeuvrable fighting frigate and was unveiled to the public at that year's Motorama Car Show.
This stunning 1961 Corvette has been owned and upgraded by its current, enthusiast, owner for some 12 years. A twice ‘Best in Class’ winner at the nationals in 2007 and 2008. Finished in Polaris Silver over Ivory coves and complemented by black Al Knoch trim, this example presents almost as new. Sympathetically upgraded and fully restored this ‘Vette’ boasts a 350ci small block Chevrolet engine mated to a TH350 transmission, a turn of the key and the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end, the sound is fabulous. Upgrades however did not stop with the engine and gearbox, the end goal was a C1 that could be used on UK roads as a more modern sports car so independent front suspension, rack and pinion steering, a Chevrolet 10 bolt rear end, uprated six pot Wilwood disc brakes and coil over adjustable suspension for a perfect setup were added amongst numerous other upgrades. The history file contains comprehensive invoices and receipts coupled to a workshop manual, V5 registration document and details of the numerous upgrades and details from the restoration. This is one of the most stunning examples we have seen but, in this instance, also one of the best examples to actually drive, performing well against cars half its age. Viewing is highly recommended you will not be disappointed.
Interested parties should note that the private registration plate shown is to be retained by the vendor and a new, age-related registration issued instead.
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.