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LOT 164

1962 Chevrolet Corvette 327/340bhp Chassis no. 20867S100504 Engine no. F0132RE

Sold for US$57,200 inc. premium
Lot 164
1962 Chevrolet Corvette 327/340bhp
Chassis no. 20867S100504 Engine no. F0132RE
Quail Lodge Auction|16 August 2013, 11:00 PDT|Carmel, California

1962 Chevrolet Corvette 327/340bhp
Chassis no. 20867S100504
Engine no. F0132RE

327ci OHV V8 Engine
One 4-Barrel Carter Carburetor
340bhp at 6,000rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Front Independent Suspension - Live Rear Axle
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*Beautifully restored Corvette
*Desirable last-of-the-line C1 model
*Fitted with the 'must-have' 4-speed manual transmission
*Powerful 340bhp specification
*The perfect car to drive to the Reunion to celebrate Corvette



The C1 Corvette

There was no doubt in GM General Manager Ed Cole's mind that the Corvette had needed a V8 engine. Work on what became the 1955 V8 began as soon as Cole was installed as head of the Chevrolet Division. With it, the Corvette was transformed from an acceptable and attractive boulevard cruiser to a genuine performance machine. It was then down to Harley Earl's team of designers to upgrade the package, which they did with the introduction of the 1956 model. A stylish new design, wider and wilder than its predecessor, the Corvette gained popularity among America's youth, and with continuous styling refinements and updates, remained fresh. By 1958, the 'Vette featured a four-headlight front end and more chrome trim, while engine packages continued to grow in output. In 1961 the Corvette again received a substantial cosmetic re-do, with the primary changes at the rear, which became far more sleek and modern. This look would carry over to the 'Stingray' C2 model introduced in 1963. At a base price of $4,038, the new Corvette crossed the $4,000 mark for the first time, but sales jumped nearly 50%, to 14,531 units.

The venerable 283 cubic-inch engine was no longer available, having been replaced by the new 327 cubic-inch V8. Dual four-barrel carburetors were no longer available; a single fuel injected engine package with 360bhp was optional. These 'last-of-the-line' 1961-1962 Corvettes are considered by many to be the most desirable early Corvettes, with sleek styling and increased power and driveability from the 327.


The Motorcar Offered

The 504th Corvette built for the 1962 model year, this beautiful example is believed to have spent the majority of its life in the Portland, Oregon area. A substantial restoration must have been performed at some point in its life, as close inspection shows a thoroughly refurbished car, with expertly plated hardware throughout. Finished in the period color of Rally Red, the Corvette presents very well today. The paint is bright and clear and is beautifully accented by well-kept bright work. The contrasting gray interior is complimented by charcoal colored carpets with red floor mats. A black canvas top is neatly stowed under the top boot.

The engine compartment is tidy and appears correct, with the exception of a more modern alternator being fitted. Here rests a powerful V8 engine, the heart and soul of any Corvette. Fitted with the most desirable 4-speed manual transmission, this Corvette is optioned how most would want it. The car rides on classic-looking radial tires with the correct thin white-wall treatment, giving it the right look with the spinner hubcaps in place. A fun car for the weekend, and a fitting way to celebrate Corvette's 60th Anniversary, here is a beautifully presented example of the final evolution of the classic C1 Corvette.

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