327 cu. in. overhead valve V-8 engine with dual four-barrel carburettors, four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with coil springs, live rear axle suspension, and four-wheel drum brakes. Wheelbase: 102 in.

• Striking Roman Red with Ermine White coves

• Recent frame-off restoration

• Original signal-seeking radio

• Offered from the Zegwaard Collection

When introduced at GM’s 1953 Motorama, the Chevrolet Corvette EX122 prototype was an immediate hit. Hurried into production, it was available by early summer. With each passing year, engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov added performance and improved handling. For 1956, the Corvette had an all-new look with concave side coves and roll-up windows. The 265-cubic inch V-8s ranged from 210 to 240 horsepower; buyers responded and production increased from 700 to 3,467 units. A larger 283 CID V-8 was adopted in 1957, the same year that a four-speed transmission became available.

The 1961 model year brought a face lift. Up front, the toothy grille was gone, while the rear received a new tapered tail that foreshadowed the look of the stunning new Stingray due for 1963. Changes for 1962 were minor, with a blacked-out grille, omission of the cove side-trim, and a new ribbed moulding for the rocker panels. For 1962, Chevrolet’s performance flagship evolved into the ultimate development of the C1, or live axle Corvettes, receiving a new, larger 327-cubic inch V-8. Power output ranged from the base 250 horsepower to an impressive 360 horsepower.

Finished in brilliant Roman Red with a white cove and a black leather interior, this fine Corvette has benefitted from a comprehensive body-off restoration in recent years. The restoration was carried out in Europe and is well-documented, with extensive photography and descriptions of all work carried out. Since the completion, the Corvette has covered nominal mileage, and the overall presentation remains excellent throughout, with unmarked coachwork and a very good panel fit. The black leather interior is as-new, and the convertible roof is in perfect condition. With just 263 miles showing on the odometer since restoration, this beautifully presented example starts easily with excellent oil pressure and awaits its new enthusiastic owner to drive and enjoy it!