1954 Chevrolet Corvette

Description

The 1954 Corvettes fit into a special niche within the Corvette hobby. Virtually identical to the initial 1953 models, they offer the same experience for considerably less money. This one has been expertly restored to the very highest levels, capturing the essence of the original and providing a driving experience like no other.

Like the '53s, a vast majority of the '54s were painted Polo White, and there really aren't many cars that are more iconic than this. With styling cues taken from the great sports cars of Europe, the 'Vette is still nonetheless a purely American invention. Even when they were sitting in the showrooms, these early Corvettes were pretty crude machines. Today, with the benefits of decades of restoration technology, this car looks absolutely spectacular in every way. The paint has a deep gloss that would have been impossible just a few years ago and the fiberglass has been massaged into position by some of the most talented guys in the business. There are no ripples, no thin spots where the substrate is showing through, and even the doors fit extremely well. Now, some Corvette guys will argue that the flaws are what make the cars authentic, but I have to ask: would you buy a restored Corvette with wavy panels? Of course not. The same goes for the chrome, which is beautifully restored, with even the lovely mesh headlight covers getting a bright makeover.

Sportsman Red upholstery was the only choice, so it's a good thing it looks awesome. Bucket seats with the dramatic "waterfall" between them were ground-breaking in the early 1950s and it's a design theme that continues to this day. The white steering wheel has a bit of the past with its horn ring and a bit of the future with its smaller diameter, and it frames a speedometer that would become a Chevy trademark for years. Auxiliary gauges were arrayed in the center of the dash, giving it a pleasing symmetry and the tachometer in the center with its revolution counter is pretty darned cool. The Corvette also included an AM radio, which is still in place here, as well as a heater which was still an option in some vehicles of the period. Beautiful door panels with neat arm rests are playful reminders of the anything-goes 1950s and it's important to note that windows are included. There is, however, tan canvas top for emergencies, as well as a decently-sized trunk for touring.

Although Chevrolet wasn't doing "matching numbers" in the traditional sense, we believe the 235 cubic inch "Blue Flame Special" under the hood is this car's original engine. It was the most powerful Chevy six to date, making 155 horsepower with triple side-draft carburetors and an upgraded camshaft, and while it's not like the big block tire-shredders that would come later, it's a lot of fun to drive. Chrome dress-up adds to the racy look that makes the Corvette special and the engine compartment is expertly detailed and ready to go. Backed by a 2-speed PowerGlide automatic transmission, it's easy to drive and has a low-slung, nimble feel that is entirely appropriate. Underneath, the chassis was obviously fully restored and after about 3000 miles of use, it still looks quite good, including a pair of new mufflers out back. The engine and transmission only have 100 miles since a full rebuild. Steel wheels with spinner hubcaps were standard equipment and this car wears correct 670-15 bias-ply whitewall tires that match the original spec.

One of the blue-chip cars in the Corvette world, this 1954 Corvette is the ideal blend of high-quality and ready-to-drive roadability. Call today!