The Chevrolet Corvette C1 made its debut in 1953, but by 1959, the model had evolved into one of the most iconic American sports cars of its era. The 1959 Corvette retained its distinctive fiberglass body, marking a key innovation for the time, and was introduced with significant design updates, including the iconic dual headlight arrangement and a sleeker, more sculpted front end. These changes helped cement the Corvette’s reputation as a symbol of American performance and style.
Styled by Harley Earl, the 1959 Corvette featured smooth curves and bold lines, complemented by chrome accents and a signature side cove, enhancing its sporty appearance. The addition of quad headlights and a wider grille gave it a more aggressive stance, making it instantly recognizable on the road.
Under the hood, the 1959 Corvette C1 was powered by a V8 engine, the most powerful being the fuel-injected 283 cubic-inch (4.6-liter) V8. With its unique combination of innovative design, advanced engineering, and raw performance, the 1959 Corvette C1 played a pivotal role in establishing the Corvette as America’s quintessential sports car, a legacy that continues to this day.
We are thrilled to present a truly unique 1959 Chevrolet Corvette C1 at auction, originally delivered new to the UK. Since then, this standout vehicle has had four owners, and is registered in the UK (UK VAT paid).
This fully customized Corvette features a professionally upgraded 6.0-liter V8 engine, along with new rims and Wilwood brakes, an improved exhaust system, and a bespoke interior including custom steering wheel and seats. Due to the mechanical modifications, the car cannot be registered in Switzerland.
The Corvette has driven just 1,748 kilometers since its restoration, and a fresh service will be performed prior to delivery to ensure peak performance. In excellent condition both inside and out, this car is a true dream for any collector. It was valued at $176,000 by AutoAppraisal Network Inc. in 2008, further solidifying its desirability. Full documentation is available.
The chrome-finished wheels on this Chevrolet Corvette C1 are a tribute to the classic 1960s design, blending timeless elegance with vintage flair. The polished chrome perfectly complements the car’s bold curves and retro aesthetic, enhancing the iconic lines of the Corvette while staying true to the spirit of mid-century American automotive culture.
Behind these striking wheels lie Wilwood disc brakes, a modern performance upgrade that provides superior stopping power. The red Wilwood brake calipers add a sharp contrast to the chrome wheels, not only enhancing the vehicle’s performance but also delivering a sleek, high-performance look.
Step inside this Corvette C1, and you’re greeted by a beautifully customized interior that effortlessly combines vintage charm with modern upgrades. The seats, upholstered in luxurious tan leather, feature custom Corvette embroidery, adding a bespoke touch that reflects the car’s iconic heritage. The stitching and design of the seats offer both comfort and style, creating a perfect blend of form and function for any driving enthusiast.
At the heart of the cockpit is a custom three-spoke steering wheel, offering a tactile connection between driver and machine, matching the rims. Its modern design complements the classic dash layout, maintaining a balance between the car’s 1960s roots and its personalized enhancements. The clean, uncluttered dashboard and retro gauges remain true to the Corvette’s classic appeal, while the updated features and materials bring the cabin into a new era of comfort and elegance.
The Chevrolet Corvette C1 is powered by the most formidable engine available at the time, a 283 cubic-inch (4.6-liter) V8, designed to deliver thrilling performance. In its top configuration, this powerhouse featured fuel injection, producing an impressive 290 horsepower, a remarkable achievement for the 1950s. This engine allowed the Corvette C1 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just under 7 seconds, making it one of the fastest production cars of its era. Paired with a four-speed manual transmission, the engine delivered smooth, precise gear shifts, offering an engaging driving experience.
This specific Chevrolet Corvette C1 now boasts a fully restored and upgraded 6.0-liter V8 engine, meticulously rebuilt in 2008 in the UK. Enhanced with modern fuel injection and an improved exhaust, it delivers around 380 horsepower.
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