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The 1962 Corvette had many features in common with previous models. And it had a few that made it unique.

The car had a solid rear axle -- Chevrolet did not introduce independent rear suspension until 1963. The 1962 Corvette also had a V-8 engine. (The last inline six-cylinder engine, the “Blue Flame,” was installed in seven 1955 Corvettes.) The 1962 Corvette’s V-8 engine was a 327 cubic inch (5.36 L) small block powerhouse, which put out 340 horsepower (250 kW), making it the fastest C1 Corvette. The dual four-barrel carburetor engine was no longer available for 1962, while the base 250 horsepower engine and the 300 horsepower optional engine featured hydraulic lifters. The 340 horsepower carburetor and fuel-injected engines had solid lifters.

Like it predecessors, the vehicle had a “boat-tail” rear end, with four round taillights – a body feature that continues today. Options that were available included power windows; a hydraulically operated convertible top; heavy-duty suspension, steering, and brakes; and a manual four-speed transmission. Other, rarely-bought options include a 24-gallon gas tank and 15 x 5.5 wheels.

The 1962 Corvette was the last model year for some traditional Corvette standards up to that time. It was the last year for the wrap-around windshield, the final solid rear axle, the end of the convertible-only body style, and the end of exposed headlights -- until 2005 when the C6 Corvette sported exposed headlights after a 43-year absence.

 

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