The Chevrolet Corvette launched in 1953 and fully came of age in the latter years of its first generation, which spanned 10 years. Incremental advancements included the addition of V-8 power in 1955 and a redesign in 1958 that brought quad headlamps, a “washboard” hood with decorative louvres, and a new dashboard with instruments repositioned ahead of the driver. In 1961, the rear end was updated to a “boat tail” design featuring quad taillamps—now a signature Corvette feature—and gained more interior space through a 20-percent reduction of the transmission tunnel.

The example offered here is believed to be one of only 1,462 models built for 1961 with the 315-horsepower, 283-cubic-inch V-8 equipped with Rochester Ram Jet fuel injection (RPO 354). Available in two fuel-injected versions, this car features the more potent of the two, making it the most powerful factory engine option for 1961. Other desirable attributes of this C1 Corvette include a four-speed manual transmission and the classic color scheme of Roman Red with Ermine White coves, a white vinyl soft-top, and a red interior. It also includes a removable, factory-style, white hardtop.

Said to have benefitted from a nut-and-bolt restoration under previous ownership, this well-detailed Corvette won a coveted Top Flight Award from the National Corvette Restorers Society in March 2003. Driven sparingly ever since its previous restoration, the car has continued to be well cared for as part of the Gene Ponder Collection. In November 2021, the car received a tune-up with oil change and the exhaust system was serviced. The following month, the fuel-injection system was fully recommissioned at a cost of more than $4,600.

A high-quality restoration that has aged well and the desirable, high-output, fuel-injected specification make this C1 Corvette an exceptional find. It is accompanied by the removable hard top and period manuals.