First launched in 1953, the Chevrolet Corvette fully came of age in the latter years of its first generation, matching its top billing as “America’s sports car” with the introduction of V-8 power in 1955. Like a fine wine, the C1 Corvette only improved with age, enjoying incremental advancements culminating in a hugely successful restyling for 1958.

While the 1958 Corvettes remained virtually the same underneath as in 1957, their styling was all-new, with wildly popular quad headlights, a “washboard” hood with decorative simulated cooling louvers, and a rear deck lid adorned with a pair of chrome trim “tusks,” all following an industry trend of flamboyant decoration. In the cabin, a redesigned dashboard moved all instruments directly ahead of the driver, and a grab bar was fitted for the passenger to grip during what Corvette engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov would have termed “advanced handling maneuvers.”

Chassis 105725 is one of these desirable 1958 models, featuring a striking Signet Red color scheme and equipped with one of America’s most iconic engines. Built at General Motors’ facility in October 1957, this early production example is powered by one of the year’s most potent drivetrains, the 250-horsepower, 283-cubic-inch V-8 with Rochester fuel injection and a four-speed manual transmission. Bearing all the hallmarks of a full restoration, the Corvette received a Bloomington Gold Certification in June of 1992.

A model as usable as it is exciting and historically significant, this 1958 Chevrolet Corvette “Fuelie” would be equally suited to regular evening cruise nights as it would serving as the cornerstone of a serious collection of American muscle. It is accompanied by the Bloomington Gold certificate mounted in a frame.