The 1957 Chevrolet Corvette Fuelie represents a pivotal chapter where the American sports car finally matured into a global performance contender. This specific C1 carries an incredible pedigree, having once belonged to Ed Thiebaud, the founder of the Vintage Corvette Club of America. It famously graced the pages of MotorTrend in 1971, serving as the definitive example for their retrospective feature. After five decades in long-term collection, this fuel-injected icon has emerged as a rare survivor of early automotive innovation. Its presence at auction offers a unique link to the very beginnings of the Corvette hobby in California and Pennsylvania.
Classic Red Styling and Hardtop Equipment
The exterior is finished in vibrant red with ivory coves, creating the quintessential fifties aesthetic that enthusiasts crave. It retains a removable body-color hardtop which provides a sleek profile while offering protection from the elements. Split chrome bumpers and chrome front bumperettes accent the rounded body lines that defined the early solid-axle era. Dual exhaust outlets exit through the rear bumper uprights, a design detail that remains a fan favorite today. The car sits on 15-inch steel wheels wearing factory covers with faux knock-off spinners for an authentic look.
Preserved Red Vinyl Interior and Dash Layout
Inside the cabin, the red-on-red theme continues with twin bucket seats trimmed in period-correct vinyl upholstery. The twin-cowl dashboard houses a 140-mph speedometer along with essential center-mounted gauges for oil pressure and temperature. A signal-seeking AM radio and power windows highlight the premium options that were available to buyers in 1957. The three-spoke steering wheel frames a 140-mph speedometer, while the floor-mounted shifter controls the three-speed manual transmission. Every detail, from the dash-mounted rearview mirror to the analog clock, reflects the high-end craftsmanship of the era.
Advanced Chassis and Handling Components
The foundation of this C1 consists of an independent front suspension paired with semi-elliptical rear leaf springs. This setup was a hallmark of the early Corvette design, providing a connected feel to the road surface below. Braking is handled by drum brakes at all four corners, which were recently serviced with new rear shoes. BFGoodrich Silvertown Radial tires are currently fitted to improve the modern driving experience without sacrificing the vintage aesthetic. While some corrosion is noted on the underside, the structural integrity of this legendary chassis remains intact for the next owner.
Fuel-Injected V8 Power and Performance Specs
The 283ci V8 engine utilizes Rochester Ramjet mechanical fuel injection and was factory rated at 250 horsepower. This “Fuelie” powerplant was a marvel of its time, delivering smooth power and impressive torque through the rev range. The engine features the correct EM suffix code, which is designated for a fuel-injected manual transmission Corvette from 1957. Recent service in 2025 included rebuilding the fuel injection unit and servicing the distributor to ensure optimal running condition. Power is efficiently routed to the rear wheels via a three-speed manual transmission that offers a mechanical, engaging shift feel.
Summary of the 1957 Corvette Fuelie
The 1957 Chevrolet Corvette Fuelie is far more than just a vintage sports car; it is a piece of documented history. Its past ownership by prominent collectors and its appearance in major automotive media provide a level of provenance rarely seen. The combination of its fuel-injected V8 and red-over-red color scheme makes it an centerpiece for any serious American collection. It remains an authentic representation of the technological leap forward that defined the Chevrolet brand in the late fifties. This Corvette stands ready for its next chapter after decades of careful preservation.
Disclaimer: Content on this site is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Details, analyses, and opinions reflect current trends and personal views, not professional or financial advice. Always verify information with official sources before making any decisions.
Source: bringatrailer.com
