The 1958 Chevrolet Corvette stands as a monumental figure in American sports car history. While most collectors focus on the chrome-heavy styling of this era, the real story often lies beneath the fiberglass. This specific example is far from a standard cruiser, as it was engineered from the factory for the rigors of competition. It carries the highly coveted RPO 684 package, making it a rare survivor in the world of high-stakes vintage racing.
The Rarity of the RPO 684 Package
Only 144 buyers selected the RPO 684 Heavy Duty Brake and Suspension option for the 1958 Chevrolet Corvette. This package transformed the car into a track-ready machine directly from the assembly line. It included stiffened suspension components and specialized cooling systems designed to prevent brake fade during long races. Because so few were produced, finding a verified example today is an exceptionally rare occurrence for top-tier collectors.
Signature Elephant Tusk Cooling
One of the most recognizable features of this heavy-duty package is the rear brake cooling induction system. Enthusiasts often refer to these specialized ducts as “elephant tusks” due to their unique shape. These components directed airflow straight to the rear drums to keep temperatures manageable under extreme conditions. This car retains its original induction system, verifying its authentic competition pedigree to potential bidders.
Historical Integrity and Restoration
Noted Corvette enthusiast Burt Brown performed a comprehensive restoration on this 1958 Chevrolet Corvette in 1988. He collaborated with Jeff Reade of American Motoring Memories to ensure every detail remained accurate to factory standards. While the exterior received fresh white lacquer paint, the chassis was intentionally left in its unrestored state. This decision allows inspectors to see the original factory welds and reinforcement points specific to the racing package.
A Legacy of Long Term Ownership
Following the restoration, Jeff Reade kept this 1958 Chevrolet Corvette in his private collection for nearly twenty-five years. This long-term stewardship helped preserve the car’s mechanical integrity and documented its historical significance. The car is believed to have seen actual track action during the 1958 season, adding to its competitive aura. Currently, the odometer shows 27,425 miles, reflecting its life as a specialized performance machine rather than a daily driver.
Power Performance and Engine Specs
The 1958 Chevrolet Corvette relies on a 283 CI V-8 engine that was meticulously rebuilt and blueprinted during the restoration. This engine is paired with a four-speed manual transmission, allowing the driver to fully exploit the high-revving nature of the small-block. During machining, the engine pad was decked, though the numbers were later re-stamped specifically for judging purposes. These mechanical updates ensure the car performs as aggressively as its heavy-duty suspension suggests.
Summary of the Houston Auction Entry
This RPO 684 Corvette represents a unique intersection of factory engineering and verified racing provenance. It offers the next owner a chance to own one of the rarest production variants ever built in St. Louis. The combination of a documented restoration and an unrestored racing chassis makes it a prime candidate for high-level concours events. As it crosses the block in Houston, it remains a testament to Chevrolet’s early commitment to international motorsport dominance.
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Source: mecum.com
