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2013 Shannons Melbourne Summer Classic Auction
Lot
34

1958 Chevrolet Corvette Roadster (RHD)

$100,000

Sold

Specifications

Engine V8, 283-cid
Gearbox 4-speed manual
Body Work Roadster
Colour Black with silver coves
Interior Black
Trim Vinyl
Wheels Steel disc
Brakes Hydraulic drums

Description

This lot is no longer available

America's only genuine sports car gained in popularity in the latter part of the 1950s, with sales increasing annually following a major restyle in 1956. For the 1958 model year, Chevrolet's designers revised the Corvette's shape once more, with distinctive new quad headlamps, chrome accents on the fenders and rear deck lid and non-functional vents on the leading edge of the side coves the main features. Inspired by the competition SR-2 and lasting for one year only, the '58 Vette's bonnet featured simulated louvers. The interior also came in for a major reworking, with the gauges now placed ahead of the driver instead of being offset on the dash and a grab-bar was added for nervous passengers. Despite a ban on factory involvement in motorsport by the AMA in June 1957, the '58 Corvette saw the emphasis on serious performance continue to gain momentum. The base 283-cid V8 motor developed 230 hp and came with a standard issue three-speed manual gearbox (though buyers could opt for either a four-speed 'box or Powerglide automatic transmission for an extra cost). Although some pundits refused to concede that the Corvette was a genuine sports car, it certainly delivered plenty of straight line speed and a look through the extensive list of RPOs shows there was plenty of scope to enhance the steering, handling and braking. In total some 9,168 Corvettes were built in 1958 and each is now regarded as a genuine American classic.