1960 Chevrolet Corvette

Description

When car guys think of a Corvette, the C1 is typically what comes to mind as the ideal representation of the model. With iconic styling, a beautiful color combination, and a boosted performance delivered by a crate 350 V8, this Corvette is ready to be driven and enjoyed, or shown and admired.

Yes, that's factory-correct, 1960 vintage code 509 Sateen Silver, and it's absolutely gorgeous. Even the Ermine White side cove is the same stuff applied at the St. Louis factory in 1960. Together, they make for one of the most subtle and elegant of the Corvette color combinations. Parked among its peers, this car will stand out in a way that a lot of folks won't quite be able to grasp until they get up close and see that yes, there are a few blemishes here and there, but there's simply no beating that color choice. Obviously this car has always been babied over the decades and all the stainless and chrome trim is in terrific shape. There's a light dusting of pitting on some of the cast pieces, but it would be a crime to consider re-plating any of the bright parts. As it sits today, this car has a wonderful all-of-a-piece look that's incredibly appealing.

The black interior is also the same stuff that was installed at the factory, and today's reproduction seat covers just can't quite duplicate the level of detail the factory offered. The seats are still comfortable and supportive and there's not so much as a split seam or major scuff mark on any of the seating surfaces. Sure, there's a little stretching, but somehow that only makes it more appealing when you slide behind the big 3-spoke steering wheel. Once you're there, you get a great view of the gauges, which are all fully functional, including the tachometer, and the dash pad is remarkably well preserved. A 4-speed manual transmission with cue ball knob makes this 'Vette a joy to drive and while it's not original, the AM/FM/cassette stereo head unit does make it a little more entertaining. There's also a nice-fitting black convertible top that's a little faded and dry, but 100% intact and still usable in emergencies (which is the only time you're going to use the top anyway). The trunk mat is way too nice to be original, but it looks great.

The 350 cubic inch V8 sadly, is not the original engine. We don't know when in the car's history it was replaced, but the story is that the owner was looking for more power than the original 283 could offer. Regardless, it's a small block Chevy and with that in mind, the car has the right heart. It's dressed in period-correct gear like the finned valve covers, the generator with tachometer drive, and Chevy Orange paint, and they even went so far as to add a set of reproduction hoses and clamps. Replace the air cleaner and most folks wouldn't spot the engine swap, and the extra cubes do make for one fun cruiser. The 4-speed shifts well and the rest of the mechanics underneath are nicely preserved for their age and it exhales through a dual exhaust system that emits a proper V8 burble. Classic Coker wide whites give it the perfect look surrounding original hubcaps that are extremely nice.

If this car had its original engine, it would cost at least twice as much. Instead, take advantage of this opportunity to enjoy an incredible C1 and still be able to drive it regularly without worries. Call today!