1962 Chevrolet Corvette Roadster

Chassis no. 20867S100504 Engine no. F0132RE

Footnotes

Beautifully restored, the Chevrolet Corvette offered here is a desirable last-of-the-line example of the original C1 model equipped with the 327ci (5.3-litre) 340bhp V8 engine and the 'must have' four-speed manual gearbox. The 504th Corvette built for the 1962 model year, this car is believed to have spent the majority of its life in Oregon and Washington in the north western United States. It appears that an extensive restoration was undertaken at some point in its life, as close inspection shows a thoroughly refurbished car, with high quality brightwork throughout.

The current vendor purchased the Corvette at Bonhams' Quail Lodge auction in August 2013 (Lot 164) and had it shipped to his home in Belgium. Subsequently improved mechanically by L'Officina at a cost of around €20,000 (invoices available), the car is finished in the period colour of Rally Red and still presents very well today. Bright and clear, the paintwork is beautifully accented by the well-kept brightwork, while the interior and boot have been completely re-trimmed (with the exception of the contrasting grey seats). The engine compartment is tidy and appears correct apart from the more modern alternator. The car rides on classic-looking radial tires with correct thin whitewalls, giving it the correct look with the spinner hubcaps.

In addition to routine servicing, major works carried out during the present ownership include installing electric power steering; swapping the original front drum brakes for discs (original brakes available); and fitting a dual-circuit braking system, a Parrot sound system, a battery charger socket, and a Trip Master. In addition, the rear brakes, steering arms, ball joints, and wheel bearings have all been replaced and the ignition system overhauled. Accompanying documentation includes the 2013 proforma invoice and shipping paperwork; Belgian Carte Grise and Contrôle Technique; previous United Sates registration papers; and the aforementioned L'Officina bills.

A fun car for the weekend, ready to cruise or rally, this is a beautifully presented and sensibly upgraded example of the final evolution of the classic C1 Corvette.