Car: Chevrolet C-1 Corvette
Year: 1955
What makes it special: The first generation Chevrolet Corvette was produced for the 1953 through 1962 model years, making it the “C-1” solid-axle years. It’s called solid because the famed Corvette independent rear suspension was not available until the 1963 model year on the Sting Ray. The Corvette was in such demand by the buying public after its concept debut at the Auto-Rama that many expectations were left unsatisfied.
What made it famous: For the 1955 model year, Chevrolet debuted the 195hp, 265 cu in small-block V8, and it was made available for the Corvette model. It was only available with the two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, but a three-speed manual transmission became available later that year. For the 1955 model, there were 5 different exterior color choices, four interior color choices and three different convertible soft top materials and color choices. Very few of the famed “Blue Flame Inline-6” models were built for the 1955 model year, and all were backed by the Powerglide transmission.
Why I would want one: Admittedly, I was not always a fan of this body style or the mesh-covered headlights look, but have grown fond of it over the years.
Fun fact: Famed Corvette genius Zora Arkus-Duntov was the man responsible for the addition of the V8 / three-speed manual transmission combo in the Corvette.
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