How the Chevrolet Corvette C1 got its start
Harley J. Earl, GM engineer Edward Cole, and industrial designer Robert McLean collaborated to design the first Corvette. McLean was largely responsible for the chassis layout and for the overall aesthetics of the car. The team, it turns out, was able to create an American concept sports car unlike any other seen before.
The new Corvette concept car was introduced publicly in 1953 at New York City's Motorama Car Show. The American sports car's debut was a success. Customers couldn't wait to get behind the wheel of this innovative automobile.
The Corvette C1 appeared in the showroom virtually unchanged from its original concept. Though that was unusual, the car's stunning looks seemed good enough to attract interest, even with its 235ci inline six-cylinder engine and unimpressive two-speed automatic transmission.
It wasn't long before the automaker realized that the Corvette needed to ramp up its power to compete with its European competitors. Belgian engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov placed the first V8 engine into the Corvette in 1955. It transformed the fiberglass beauty into a performance machine to be reckoned with.
What makes the Corvette C1 special?
By the early 1960s, the Corvette had earned its place near the top of the muscle car wars. With 315 horsepower and a high-performance 327ci V8 engine, few in its category could challenge its prowess.
But what makes the Corvette C1 stand out above all others is its unforgettable beauty. Its classic style is easily recognizable by its iconic rear-end bodywork and quad-taillights. It comes as no surprise that the C1 Corvette is thought to be one of the most aesthetically-pleasing generations of the Corvette to hit American roads.
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