The General's revolutionary, fiberglass-bodied Corvette entered the world stage in 1953. Six generations and six decades later, it's still "America's Sports Car," captivating the hearts and minds of countless, red-blooded enthusiasts.
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Rare survivors of first-generation 'Vettes from the 1950s, originally produced in low numbers, are highly desired by serious collectors, as these roadsters best exemplify the original concept of the bare bones, dual purpose, street & strip warrior.
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Manufactured on Wednesday, January 2, 1957, the amazing 1957 Corvette presented here, VIN *E57S101568*, is one of just 6,339 built for the model year. A veteran of drag strips and road courses in California and the Pacific Northwest, the car was discovered about 25 years ago by a Gentleman from Idaho, who lovingly recommissioned it with the goal of participating in Pro Touring events, while leaving its original flavor intact.
Let's take a closer look:
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You are looking a 100% pure Chevrolet power! Under the lift-off hood rests the almighty Heartbeat of America : a 305 cu.in. small block, originally built for oval track racing, generating an incredible 453hp at the rear wheels during a recent chassis dyno test.
For added streetability, the X-Gasser's straight front axle made way for a late-model GM front sub frame, including coil springs and power disc brakes. The car still has the looks, but now it can turn corners as well!
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Engine bay is very clean. Thousands of Dollars and hundreds of man hours have just been invested to freshen the car. Among the many items receiving attention:
- A period-modified, high volume Mercedes-Benz 300 Adenauer radiator(!) was installed, more than able to keep this street beast cool under all circumstances. A brand new transmission cooler was added as well.
- Originally delivered with a stick shift (pedal/linkage are still present), the car now features a B&M built automatic with a manual valve body.
- The electrical wiring in the engine bay was completely replaced, including the fuse box.
- All new belts and hoses were installed, a new battery, and a modern alternator with internal resistor.
- The steering system was overhauled, from the gear box to the wheel.
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Painted many years ago, 'Vette shows a few imperfections here and there; nevertheless, its House of Kolor Candy Brandywine finish featuring silver coves still has a phenomenal effect on the casual observer.
Take a close look at the car's toothy grille: apparently, it has been fashioned from a single sheet of aluminum! We've only ever seen one other grille like it, on a $500,000.00 Corvette factory race car. The prior owner told us that only three of these special, lightweight grilles were ever made, with direct input from the "Father of the Corvette," Zora Arkus-Duntov, prior to a race that took place at Nassau, in the Bahamas. Could this amazing vintage accessory alone be worth as much as the remainder of the car? You make that call.
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Currently mounted rolling stock consists of 1970s CENTERLINE alloy racing wheels, shod with MICKEY THOMPSON Sportsman Pro radials of the size 25 x 10.50 up front and 31 x 16.50 out back, imparting that period drag racing look and maximum traction.
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If drag racing isn't your cup of tea, you will most likely appreciate the fact that two additional sets of wheels and tires--easily worth $3,000.00--are included: one for
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Far from spartan, the interior features some very nice touches. There's full upholstery, including two-tone door panels, and black carpeting (with cool red-and-black coco mats) throughout. One focal point is the attractive B&M Pro Ratchet shifter with reverse lockout, mounted to a hand-formed alloy base and topped by a genuine 8-ball shift knob.
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Reminiscent of Ferrari's Barchetta designs of the Fifties, the Corvette dash adds perfect symmetry to create a highly attractive cockpit. Note custom made LEXAN windshield and main power switch located next to factory rearview mirror.
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A full set of period STEWART WARNER gauges was installed during the 'Vette's racing days. The important ones, such as temperature, oil pressure, fuel, and volt meter, all work, as does the SUN tach mounted inside the left binnacle. Speedo is currently not hooked up. Beyond headlights (low and high beam), taillights, and brake lights, there are no amenities like wipers, heater, stereo, top, or side windows, though they could be easily added. Then again, who needs all that extra fluff on a pure sports car?
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Stock seats with very good, black naugahyde upholstery. Seat belt anchors are installed, and we will add a set of racing lap belts if you so desire. Note old MOON quick-fill fuel cap on rear deck.
The single-hoop roll bar can be unbolted and removed, for a different look.
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Ready for a test drive?
So are we, but let's examine two more areas first: trunk and undercarriage!
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Spotless trunk is lined with alloy panels and contains nothing but a stainless steel, 40-gallon aviation fuel cell, though there's still space for an overnight bag or two. Neat!
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Everything looks to have been engineered thoughtfully. Huge, 16.5-inch wide wheels are tucked in nicely.
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Details, from left to right:
- Drivetrain, frog's perspective: neat and clean. Note HOOKER headers, B&M trans pan.
- Characteristic "X-frame," free of any corrosion. Nice 'glass floors. Dual Cherry Bomb mufflers and turn downs.
- Independent rear suspension from a C2 Corvette, installed back in '63.
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Monday, June 8, when we took all of these pictures, was a perfect day for a test drive.
Flip the switch to turn on the power, press the starter button, and the mighty 'Vette fires instantly. After letting her warm up for a minute, we move the shift lever to first, take a deep breath, and off we go.
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You cannot drive this rumpety-rump road monster without capturing the undivided attention of every man, woman, child, and dog you'll encounter. Jaws drop, necks snap, cell phone cameras come out, arms shoot up to wave. The child-like expressions on the faces of grown men in the presence of this car will make you smile. It's the ultimate crowd pleaser!
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Behind the aluminum steering wheel, all's fine. The power-assisted steering is a godsend, as are the strong disc brakes. The upgraded front and rear suspension have transformed the car's handling; obviously, the currently mounted tires lend themselves more to Drag Strip action than road racing. They just look so muthahoppin' cool! Change them out for one of the extra sets that come with this 'Vette, and you'll be ready to tackle the twisties.
The car starts easily, hot or cold, never overheats (you'll hardly even have to use the auxiliary electric fan), and shows excellent oil pressure.
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Needless to say, there's more power on tap than you'll ever need. Acceleration is breathtaking, almost scary, partly due to very low gearing. We'd really like to take her to the strip, to see what she's capable of. This is definitely not a car for Grandma to take to the grocery store. Handle with care!
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Returning home, we are unable to wipe a big grin off our face, such is the impact of piloting this essential 1950s sports car icon. Shift, steer, and work the pedals, that's all. There's nothing else to worry about.
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This phenomenal 'Vette has just been carefully sorted and is ready to be enjoyed. Be it as a terror on the drag strip, a Sunday driver, a participant in Pro Touring and track day events, or a show stopper: the opportunities are endless.
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Additionally, with more time and patience, you might be able to discover more of E57S101568's racing background. Then, you'll have a documented, historical Corvette race car on your hands, worth many times the initial investment.
Given that LMC is offering another '57 Corvette racer for $975,000.00, we say: the sky's the limit!
Addendum:
We sold this Corvette in July 2009.
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