For 1958, the Chevrolet Corvette gained the distinctive quad-headlamp arrangement that it would carry through the end of first-generation production. The elegant lighting change, balanced by a simplified grille with nine teeth (rather than the 13 seen up until that point), a faux-louvered hood, and chrome trunk lid trip helped push the Corvette in a more upmarket, up-to-date, design-centric direction. It would retain this look through the end of C1 Corvette production in 1962.

With its 283-cubic-inch V-8 producing between 245 and 290 horsepower, however, the stylish 1958 Corvette was no less a serious performer than before. The star of the show, of course, was the Rochester fuel injection system, which unlocked that maximum output. So equipped, the relatively lithe 1958 Corvette could sprint to 60 mph in a tick under seven seconds—exhilarating at the time, and healthy even by modern standards.

This 1958 Chevrolet Corvette “Fuelie” is a wonderful example, finished in a Signet red exterior with white accent coves over a red interior. In 2000 this roadster received a comprehensive body-off restoration which included rebuilding the engine, transmission, and fuel-injection system. The Corvette further received new suspension, a new interior, redone chrome, and a new soft top. In 2002, the car was presented at an NCRS event in Orlando Florida and received a Third Flight award after judging.

In preparation of this sale, the Corvette received a thorough detailing of the exterior and interior. In addition, the mechanical systems were inspected, and the fuel system was serviced. This work included an optimization of the injection unit, the installation of a new pump drive cable, and replacing the fuel filter. Lastly, a correct OEM-style AC Delco battery was connected.

A pioneering automobile and an icon of American culture, the first-generation Chevrolet Corvette is one of those rare machines that transcends the world of collector cars, drawing in and winning over all who lay eyes on it. A model as usable as it is historically significant, this smart C1 Corvette would be just as at home as starter classic cruising to “cars and coffee” events as it would serving as the cornerstone of a serious collection of American muscle.