Lot details
Registration No: EU-Reg
Chassis No: 20867S102783

- Desirable specification: 327ci (5.4 litre) V8 and 4-speed manual gearbox

- Treated to an extensive 'chassis up' restoration with numerous powder-coated parts

- Former show winner and said to be 'a dream to drive'

Further Info:

Now in its seventh generation, the 'Vette began life in 1953 with the C1 - a model that inspired a generation of American youngsters and presented Ford with a nine year headache. It was the work of the legendary Harley Earl and inspired by the great European road/race offerings of the day. It borrowed its name - of French origin - from centuries of small, fast warships. The newcomer was first seen in concept form at the New York Auto Show, and generated sufficient interest for General Motors to hand-build a batch of 300 Polo White Convertibles. Sales, slow at first, had built to no less than 14,000 per annum by the introduction of the C2 10 years later. The C1 received multiple cosmetic updates along the way, the most significant of which came in 1958 when the nose was lengthened and dual headlights introduced. The model was initially only available with a straight-six powerplant, but by 1962 it could be bought with a thumping great 327ci (5.3-litre) V8 under the bonnet, making this the fastest and arguably most desirable version of America's first true sports car.

The very smart C1 on offer is a perfect example of that ultimate iteration. Reportedly to period specification apart from its gleaming Pearlescent White paintwork, the two-seater is further understood to have been completely stripped and restored in the USA. The chassis and ancillary parts were powder-coated and all the main components renewed - the labels for which are still available. The vendor informs us that this show-winning 'Vette 'is a real head turner and a dream to drive, with loads of long-legged power on tap. The steering is light and the brakes firm and efficient'. Evidently the Chevy's 327ci V8 and four-speed manual transmission are reliable, and the car has just completed a 160 mile rally around Avalon without a hitch. A truly rare opportunity.