Chevrolet Corvette (C1) | |
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Overview | |
Manufacturer | Chevrolet (General Motors) |
Production | June 1953–July 1962 |
Model years | 1953–1962 |
Assembly |
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Designer | Harley Earl Bob Cadaret (1956)[1] |
Body and chassis | |
Class | Sports car |
Body style | 2-door convertible/roadster |
Layout | FR layout |
Platform | Series E2934 (1953–1957)[2] Series J800 (1958-1959)[2] Series 0800 (1960-1962)[2] |
Chassis | Body-on-frame |
Related | Chevrolet Corvette Scaglietti Coupe |
Powertrain | |
Engine |
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Transmission |
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Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 102.0 in (2,591 mm) (1953–1962) |
Length |
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Width |
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Height |
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Curb weight |
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Chronology | |
Successor | Chevrolet Corvette (C2) |
The Chevrolet Corvette (C1) is the first generation of the Corvette sports car produced by Chevrolet. It was introduced late in the 1953 model year and produced through 1962.[4] This generation is commonly referred to as the "solid-axle" generation, as the independent rear suspension did not appear until the 1963 Sting Ray.
The Corvette was rushed into production for its debut model year to capitalize on the enthusiastic public reaction to the concept vehicle, but expectations for the new model were largely unfulfilled.[5] Reviews were mixed and sales fell far short of expectations through the car's early years. The program was nearly canceled, but Chevrolet decided to make necessary improvements.
The most expensive Corvette (C1) to sell in history was sold by Barrett-Jackson in the United States in March 2021 for $825,000 (~$915,195 in 2023) (£591,470).[6]
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