Specifications:
220hp, 283 cu. in. V8 engine, three-speed manual transmission, independent coil spring front and live axle with semi-elliptical leaf spring rear suspension, four-wheel drum brakes.
Wheelbase: 105.7"Initially conceived in 1951 as America's answer to the MGs and Jaguars so popular among GIs, the early first-generation Corvettes made a surprisingly weak entrance onto the sports car scene. Underpowered and underperforming, Corvettes lagged behind in sales and were very nearly removed from the GM lineup. The addition of Zora Arkus-Duntov's manual transmission and a more powerful V8 engine proved to be the key to their success on road and track. Especially appealing to enthusiasts are Corvettes produced in 1957, as this was the year when GM first introduced its rudimentary fuel-injection system. Regardless of year, however, Corvettes were distinctive for their use of higher-displacement, lower-reving engines as compared to their European competition. After six generations and over fifty years of universal popular appeal, the Chevrolet Corvette continues to reign supreme as "America's sport's car". This particular Corvette was completely restored one year ago and remains in excellent overall condition. Its professionally executed paint job is both bold and well-executed. The white canvas convertible top is a perfect addition to the white paint that accents the otherwise Venetian Red fiberglass body. Equally impressive is the quality of this car's new chrome trim, particularly the wheels, which are shod in period-correct whitewall tires. The dual headlamp setup is distinctive of the early C1s and was omitted in 1958. It should be noted that the restored original hardtop is also included in the sale of the car. The caliber of the interior restoration is also worthy of praise as the red vinyl upholstery, dash, and steering wheel are all free of imperfections. A potent 283 cubic inch V8 with dual four-barrel carburetors sits under the hood and is mated to a three-speed transmission. Both units are understood to be original and were rebuilt during the restoration. The car runs and functions flawlessly. As presented here, this red Corvette is an excellent matching-numbers example of an automotive icon. This year marks the Golden anniversary of the 1957 Chevrolet Corvette. Now in its sixth generation, the Corvette has aged well and continues to grow in popularity. Timeless in design, unique in character, yet universal in appeal, few cars are as capable of representing an automotive institution.