C1 Corvette

The first generation is most commonly referred to as solid axle, based on the fact that independent rear suspension was not available until 1963. This generation started in 1953 and ended in 1962.

The C1 was hand built thus leaving a limited amount available, the 1953 Corvette had a total of 300 cars made, and it is the rarest and most sought after Corvette model year. Aside from a few changes except for color choices and production numbers, the 1954 is the last Corvette to have a 6 cylinder engine. Obviously the 1955 saw the introduction of the V-8 engine, replacing the underpowered in-line 6. The first seven 1955 off the production line did however feature the in-line 6. Aside from the engine, the 1955 model can be differentiated by its logo the "V" in Corvette is enlarged and gold colored, signifying the V-8 engine under the hood.

In 1956 a new body was designed for the car which changed it from a country club style sports car, and the addition of optional fuel injection in mid-1957. Although the Corvette's GM-Rochester injection used a constant flow system it nevertheless produced about 290hp. Other early options included power windows (1956), hydraulically operated power convertible top (1956), four speed manual transmission (late 1957), and heavy duty brakes and suspension (1957).

The 1958 Corvette saw more body changes and more options. This year had the most exterior chrome and was the heaviest of all the C-1s. From its quad headlights and hood louvers to its twin trunk spars and bumper exiting exhaust, it was the flashiest Corvette ever built. 1959-60 saw little changes except ever decreasing chrome and increasing HP. For 1961 a complete change to the rear of the car was made. It was the first year to have 4 round tail lights. In 1962, the GM 283 small block was enlarged to 327cu in (5.4L) and produced a maximum of 360hp making it the fastest of the C-1s and by now almost completely covered with stylish chrome.

1962 was the last year for many things: curved windshield, solid rear axle and convertible only body style. The trunk lid and exposed headlights disappeared for decades, returning in 1998 and 2005, respectively.

Information Provided by Wikipedia.

The first generation is most commonly referred to as solid axle, based on the fact that independent rear suspension was not available until 1963. This generation started in 1953 and ended in 1962.

The C1 was hand built this leaving a limited amount available, the 1953 Corvette had a total of 300 cars made, and it is the rares and most sought after Corvette model year. Aside form a few changes except for color choices and production numbers