Classic Corvette Parts
The year was 1953 when the public was astound by the release of the 235cid six-cylinder
engine, 150hp and two speed automatic transmission Corvette at the Motorama car
show. It had a fiberglass body, chrome-framed grille with 13 heavy vertical chrome
bars, rounded front fenders with recessed headlights with wire screen covers,
no side windows or outside door handles, a wraparound windshield, and protruding,
fender-integrated taillights. All built by hand. It came in Polo White body and
Sportsman Red interiors. Two years later, Corvette featured a 265cid OHV V8 engine
and manual transmission introduced, also the last year for six-cylinder engine.
V8 produced 195hp with a four barrel carburetor, standard version produced 155hp.
The Corvette's body remained unchanged. The 1957 Chevrolet Corvette roadster featured
fuel-injected models and was identified by budging on the side scalloping in the
front fenders. The first generation Corvette lasted up to 1963.
Although the early Corvette showed very little promise of any financial payback,
Chevrolet did not seize Corvette's production. The early Corvette only sold 3490
units in its first two years and 700 units in 1955. The reason for the low sales
output can probably be blamed to the model and the odd appearance of the Corvette
itself. As a solution, Corvette's design became a full breed street car and a
true American sports car four years after. The Corvette's sales promise was realized
in the following years.
The second generation Corvette started in 1963 where Chevrolet introduced the
new Corvette Stingray split-window coupe that was powered by 365 hp engine. A
year later, due to safety concerns, the split-window production was discontinued.
One added feature of the classic Corvette was the side exhaust pipe that was continued
to be a resident of every Corvette car up to 1969. The 1966 Corvette gave birth
to a larger 427 square-inch 7-liter version that was considered the most collectible
Corvette ever.
The next generation Corvette featured a brand new overall. This was the first
major restyling since 1963. The fast-back was replaced by a tunneled-roof coupe
and a removable back window and a two-piece detachable roof section or T-top was
an added feature. The front end was more aerodynamic and the convertible's optional
hardtop had a glass rear window.
The popularity of the classic Corvette was never replaced by its newer models.
The classic corvette remained one of the most sought Chevies and one of the best
cars that hit the road.
