1958 Chevrolet Corvette

Description

OK, you numbers guys who watch vintage Corvettes should sit this one out, because this gorgeous 1958 Corvette was built to drive, not to show. Sure, it's gorgeous, yes, it's got a strong-running 283, and yes, it looks quite authentic, and if you want an early 'Vette that can run coast-to-coast without breaking a sweat, this is it.

Built by Corvette Mike, this car is an awesome combination of great cosmetics, period equipment, and a few modern touches to make it bulletproof. The '58s were heavily redesigned, and at the time many thought they were over-wrought with chrome and louvers, but today, 1958 Corvettes are at the very top of many collectors' wish lists. The guys at Corvette Mike's shop know their stuff when it comes to vintage fiberglass, so this one has a fantastic look, offering straight bodywork, great gaps, and a wonderful period Silver Blue paint job that makes the racy Corvette look sophisticated and elegant. No contrasting side cove, this one lets the design speak for itself and it definitely looks like the epitome of 1950s GM sports cars. The paint has a deep, lustrous shine and even though it was completed about ten years ago, light use and expert care has ensured that it continues to show very well. They obviously spent big on the chrome and stainless trim, because all of it remains in first-class condition, giving the car a highly detailed and ornate look.

The interior was likewise fully restored and beautifully finished in light blue leather. The seats have some slight signs of use, but the rest looks almost new. The original instrument panel is visible through the spokes of the handsome steering wheel, and you'll note that the original tach has been replaced with an Auto Meter piece that fits neatly and has a vintage look. Other upgrades include cruise control, A/C tucked under the dash, and a modern digital AM/FM stereo with a CD changer, making this a car that's a pleasure to drive and perfect for long road trips. The dash is beautifully finished with proper switch gear, the door panels are beautiful reproductions, and everything just works like it should. The trunk is finished with a correct light blue rubber mat and cardboard side panels and it comes with a color-matched hardtop that makes this car a comfortable high-speed cruiser that seals up tight.

The engine is a 283 cubic inch V8, which is what was there originally. Now topped with dual quads, it's a very strong runner with plenty of power, but it's also professionally built and tuned, so there's no fussiness. Just get in, turn the key, and it runs. Detailing is quite good, including the finned "Corvette" logo valve covers, chrome ignition shielding, and even an alternator that looks like a vintage generator. The A/C compressor has been neatly tucked out of the way so it's not painfully obvious and it exhales through a set of ram's horn manifolds and a reproduction dual exhaust system for a factory sound. You will note a dual master cylinder, which feeds four-wheel disc brakes, so this 'Vette has impressive stopping power, and the 2-speed PowerGlide transmission is plenty for a car with such a flexible powerplant under the hood. The chassis clean and well-detailed and a set of 205/75/15 whitewall radials makes it ride and handle like a modern car while retaining the vintage look.

One of the cleanest, most well-engineered resto-mods we've seen, this is the early Corvette for the man who likes to drive. There's nothing radical or obvious about it, which is how the best resto-mods are done. Call today!