Classic Curve Appeal: A Modern Corvette’s Vintage Transformation This 2003 Chevrolet Corvette 50th Anniversary Edition convertible, transformed into a 1953 Commemorative Edition by Advanced Automotive Technologies (AAT), Lot G127, offers a unique blend of modern performance and classic styling. Purchased new in 2003, this Corvette underwent a comprehensive conversion in 2007, becoming #152 of a claimed 200 cars produced in this limited series. Finished in 50th Anniversary Red Metallic with a Shale convertible soft top and matching leather interior, this Corvette features a 5.7-liter LS1 V8 engine, delivering 350 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque, paired with a four-speed automatic gearbox. This C1-style C5 Corvette, with only 27k miles, blends the reliability and performance of a modern Corvette with the iconic design of the original 1953 model. The LS1 V8 provides robust power, ensuring a thrilling driving experience, while the AAT conversion adds a unique and captivating aesthetic.
Design Details: C1-Style Conversion and Modern Enhancements The AAT conversion involved the addition of C1-style bodywork, utilizing factory attachment points, creating a seamless blend of classic and modern design. Retro-style lights and badging, wire mesh headlight guards, and quadruple polished exhaust outlets, along with chrome bumpers and trim, enhance the car’s vintage appeal. Polished five-spoke alloy wheels, measuring 17″ up front and 18″ in the rear, are wrapped in Yokohama S-Drive tires, providing excellent grip and handling. The car is equipped with Magnetic Selective Ride Control, active handling, and traction control, ensuring a smooth and responsive ride. Red-finished calipers over ventilated discs provide confident stopping power. The Carfax report notes minor damage to the right front in January 2024, which should be considered.
Interior Comfort: Shale Leather Luxury and Modern Amenities The power-adjustable bucket seats are upholstered in Shale leather with 50th-anniversary and crossed-flag embroidery, adding a touch of exclusivity. Leather trim extends to the door pulls and armrest pads, while the door sills feature 1953 Commemorative Edition metal guards. The interior is equipped with driver-seat position memory, dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, a CD stereo with a 12-disc changer, and a Bose sound system, providing a comfortable and convenient driving experience. The leather-wrapped steering wheel fronts a head-up display, a tachometer with a 6k-rpm redline, a 200-mph speedometer, and gauges for coolant temperature, oil pressure, voltage, and fuel level.
Performance and Power: LS1 V8 and Modern Drivetrain The 5.7-liter LS1 V8 engine, factory rated at 350 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque, provides ample power for a thrilling driving experience. The Corvette-branded valve covers, finished in body color with gold 1953 Commemorative Edition graphics, add a touch of custom detailing. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic gearbox and a limited-slip differential, ensuring smooth and responsive power delivery. The car’s modern drivetrain and suspension systems provide a balance of performance and comfort, making it a joy to drive. A plaque on the right inner fender identifies the car as 1953 Commemorative Edition #152.
Summary:
- 2003 Chevrolet Corvette 50th Anniversary Edition convertible.
- Converted to 1953 Commemorative Edition by AAT.
- 5.7-liter LS1 V8 engine (350 hp, 360 lb-ft).
- Four-speed automatic gearbox, limited-slip differential.
- 50th Anniversary Red Metallic exterior, Shale leather interior.
- C1-style bodywork, retro lights and badging.
- Magnetic Selective Ride Control, active handling.
- Power-adjustable seats, dual-zone climate control.
- CD stereo with 12-disc changer, Bose sound system.
- 27k miles, Carfax report with minor damage.
Disclaimer: Vehicle specifications and condition are based on available information and Carfax report. Potential buyers should conduct their own inspection and verification.
Source: bringatrailer.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini