225 bhp, 327 cu. in. overhead valve V-8 engine, two-speed Powerglide transmission, coil spring independent front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 102"

• Last of the first generation Corvettes

• America’s sports car

Having made a big splash at GM’s 1953 Motorama, the Chevrolet Corvette was rushed to production by June 30th of that year and truly came into its own in the following model years. The iconic Corvette really arrived with the 1956 model. Restyled with a more flowing body, the car was given concave side coves finished in contrasting color. Roll-up side windows provided all-weather comfort and required exterior door handles. Engines were all V-8s, the 265-cubic inch unit from passenger cars making 210 bhp in standard trim and 240 with dual carburetors. Development of the Corvette continued under engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov. The 283-cubic inch V-8 was adopted in 1957, making 283 bhp with optional fuel injection, and a four-speed transmission was made available. By 1959 there were power options up to 290 bhp and sales topped 10,000.

The 1961 model year brought Corvette a new look that carried over into 1962, the year of the car offered here. The teeth were eliminated from the grille, and most prominently a newly-contoured tail section gave rise to the nickname “duck tail.” A precursor to the radical Sting Ray of 1963, it gave the public a preview of things to come.

Restored some years ago, this 1962 Corvette still presents well. In the popular white body color with red upholstery, it makes an excellent impression. Optioned for pleasure rather than competition, it has an AM radio and the reliable Powerglide two-speed automatic transmission. Its body, paint and brightwork are all very good. The convertible top is white vinyl with black lining, and the interior is done in red vinyl, all in excellent condition. There is matching red carpet on the floor. The engine compartment is generally clean, although there are signs of use, as the car was previously enjoyed on the highways and byways of California.

In the popular 1960s television program Route 66, Tod Stiles and Buzz Murdock traveled that iconic U.S. highway in a duck-tail Corvette, seeking work, romance and adventure. Not surprisingly, Corvette sales took an upturn as soon as the show came on the air. Even today, the first generation Corvette is an irreplaceable part of 20th century Americana, and this example is no exception.