By 1961 the Corvette had evolved into a very credible sports car with a multitude of SCCA victories to its credit, as well as an impressive finish of eighth overall (first in class) at the 1960 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting with this classic sports car design provided a fantastic starting point to give the 1961 Corvette tasteful, new styling touches while keeping the car clean and uncluttered. Corvette engineers wanted to make it clear to all that from this point forward, the newest Corvette was meant to be driven, no matter the occasion – black tie or tennis shoes – the Corvette is appropriate. Nearly 11,000 Corvettes were produced for the 1961 model year.

Styling was carefully updated under renowned GM design chief Bill Mitchell with a subtle new grille design, while the new rear end treatment foreshadowed the upcoming Sting Ray with a neat ducktail design incorporating four cylindrical taillights. In addition, the growing list of standard equipment now included a tachometer, seatbelts, sunvisors, dual exhaust, carpet, an electric clock, outside rearview mirror and an aluminum radiator.

This beautifully presented Corvette is finished in Roman Red with Ermine White coves, the last year of Chevrolet offering this option on the Corvette. A matching red interior is in the cockpit and features the aforementioned tach amongst the complement of instrumentation. An AM radio and optional heater (10,671 of 10,939 built received the code 101 option at $102.25), passenger grab bar, turn signals and clock add to the driving comfort. This Corvette has been updated with a 327-cid V-8 engine that is paired with a four-speed manual transmission for responsive right foot action.

The Corvette has always provided a platform meant for driving pleasure; it can easily turn an ordinary country road into a memorable driving experience. The Corvette brings a driving reward that cannot be found elsewhere. You might find a wide grin on your face even driving around the block.