The Chevrolet Corvette first appeared in 1953 as a unique American entry into
the sports car market dominated by European makes. Although not a muscle car
by definition, the Corvette used muscle car powertrains and has represented
American performance for almost fifty years.
The first Corvette rolled off a makeshift assembly line in Flint Michigan on
June 30, 1953, a mere six months after the debut of the concept car at the
GM Motorama. From the beginning, the Corvette was unique. It was only available
as a two passenger convertible in Polo White with a red interior. All Corvettes
were built by hand and its attractive and original body was constructed out of
fiberglass, not steel.
The only engine available was named the Blue Flame Special and was an upgraded
version of the 235 cid six found in other Chevy cars. It produced 150 bhp due
to the use of a higher lift cam which provided a significant boost in torque in
the mid-range of engine speed. The valves were special alloy steel and fitted
with double springs. The engine also featured a 8.0:1 compression ratio and
triple Carter downdraft carburetors on a cast aluminum intake manifold.
This car drives extremely well. Exterior styling features a toothy grille, stone guards
over the inseft headlamps, "twin pod" rear fenders, and "rocket ship" taillights.
The exterior is a polo white with a beautiful red interior.
Although the powertrain was a departure from typical American straight-line
performance, coupled with its light weight, the Corvette boasted excellent
handling and road feel.
Classic American Roadster!
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |  |
 |  |
 |
 |
 |
