Full details & bid : bringatrailer.com
This eye-catching red and white 1959 Chevrolet Corvette convertible offers a blend of classic C1 styling and updated performance. Reportedly refurbished in the early 1990s, this Corvette is now powered by a later 350 cubic inch V8 engine paired with a desirable four-speed manual transmission. Under current ownership since 2016, significant upgrades include a front disc brake conversion and rack-and-pinion steering, enhancing the driving experience. With a replacement white convertible soft top, a removable body-color hardtop, and a reupholstered red interior, this iconic Corvette is ready for open-top enjoyment.
Modernized V8 Power: The original engine of this 1959 Corvette was replaced in 1980 with a more potent 350 cubic inch V8. This engine is equipped with an Edelbrock Performer 600-cfm four-barrel carburetor, ensuring strong performance and a classic V8 rumble. Finned aluminum valve covers add a touch of vintage flair to the engine bay, while an electronic distributor provides reliable ignition. The carburetor was recently rebuilt under current ownership, ensuring optimal performance. This updated V8 offers a noticeable increase in power and drivability compared to the original engines available in 1959.
Enhanced Handling and Braking: A significant upgrade under current ownership is the installation of a rack-and-pinion steering system. This modern steering setup provides more precise and responsive handling, improving the driving dynamics of this classic Corvette. Complementing the enhanced steering is a front disc brake conversion. This crucial upgrade provides significantly improved stopping power and safety compared to the original drum brakes, offering greater confidence for modern driving conditions. The clutch linkage was also replaced during the seller’s ownership, ensuring smooth operation of the four-speed manual transmission.
Classic C1 Styling: The 1959 Corvette is renowned for its iconic first-generation design, and this example showcases it beautifully in red with contrasting white coves. A replacement white convertible soft top, fitted in 2017, allows for open-air cruising, while a removable body-color hardtop provides protection from the elements and alters the car’s profile. Exterior details include quadruple headlights, split chrome bumpers, fender vents, and dual exhaust outlets, all contributing to the Corvette’s timeless appeal. The car rides on 15″ steel wheels fitted with spinner-style covers and Coker Classic whitewall tires, maintaining a period-correct look. The seller notes that the antenna needs to be replaced.
Refreshed Red Interior: The interior of this Corvette is trimmed in a striking red, creating a vibrant and classic sports car ambiance. Under current ownership, the seats have been reupholstered, and the carpeting has been replaced, refreshing the cabin. Equipment includes lap belts for safety, a heater for comfort in cooler weather, an AM radio for period entertainment, and a dash-mounted rearview mirror. The steering wheel shows some paint chips and is mounted to a collapsible column, a safety feature added in later years. The five-digit odometer shows 97k miles, with approximately 400 added by the current seller; total mileage is unknown. The sweeping 160-mph speedometer and tachometer, along with gauges for fuel level, coolant temperature, battery charge, and oil pressure, provide essential driver information.
Summary:
- 1959 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible
- Red with white coves exterior
- Replacement white convertible soft top
- Removable body-color hardtop
- 350ci V8 engine with Edelbrock carburetor
- Four-speed manual transmission
- Rack-and-pinion steering conversion
- Front disc brake conversion
- Reupholstered red interior with replaced carpeting
- 15″ steel wheels with spinner covers and whitewall tires
Disclaimer: Vehicle information is based on the seller’s description and available records. The accuracy of mileage and refurbishment details cannot be guaranteed. Buyers are encouraged to perform their own due diligence.
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