wake00

I know this is a shot in the dark, but does anyone have an accurate number on how many 53s still exist today? From my research, the numbers are all over the place.

Here are a few examples of what I found…

C1 registry= 158
Corvette Action Center registry= 196
Corvsport.com= 225
Hemmings Blog= about 200

emccomas

All reasonable guesses

scopeli

285+. probably easiest to list 53s that don't exist!

champs65

I wonder if it would be possible to work backwards, identify which ones and how many definitely do not exist anymore, apply it to the known examples left and try to extrapolate a reasonable number inbetween?

Randy G.

Might be like the black with red stinger 1967 big block cars. They originally made 300 1953 Corvettes, and now there are only 1,246 of them left.

gbvette62

Seven 53's are in a private collection in Pennsylvania. I know one of the 53's in the collection (VIN 001015), is on some of the registries, but I don't think most of the others are. The owner isn't someone interested in such things. Besides the seven 53's there are also two 54's, eight 55's, an assortment of mid-years, MG-TC's, and other cars in the collection. I know the VIN's for the cars in the collection, but I'm not in a position to make them public.



1953 Corvette VIN E53F001015.

scopeli

15, 53, 97, 117, 122, 128, 237

wake00

Thanks That's what I was thinking as well. I've been compiling data and working on a complete list. A lot of the records were from Noland Adams, which are a huge help, but some of the notes are 15-20 years old.

I'll continue to truck along It's more of a personal project that I do for the enjoyment. I've always been intrigued by the 53s.

wake00

I had an idea of who owned these. Not many individuals have that many 53s...but thanks for clarifying.

csherman

You should really speak with Vette Daddy - has restored more 53's than anyone.

54vetteguy

OK this is a bit off topic but I noticed in the photos that the cars shown in the collection seem to have the hoods unlatched and open a bit....anyone know the reason for this? Venting perhaps? Just curious.
John

csherman

The hoods can be difficult to pull open. Especially with the repro male hood latches (the springs are too stiff).

wake00

Thanks. I actually sent him a PM back in April and never got a reply.

So far... Google, the Noland Adams books and the NCRS manual have been my friend. I also enjoyed the earlycorvettes.com site. The section with the interior, exterior, mechanical and chassis parts is very helpful.

Railroadman

You're probably familiar with this, but if not - back in the late 1960's Corvette News did a search for the 53's that could be found, and made a plaque for those who responded. Obviously a lot has changed in 50 years but there should a few tidbits in there you would find helpful. If you have not seen it I can see if I can dig my copy up and copy it.

DAN70

They all have V-8's with dual quads like my '54....

deejaydu

Steve Newsom knows the answer as close as anyone. He will know the actual ones that have been identified but that may not include a few that are still in hiding. He just got one two weeks ago that was in a guys living room since the 70's. I will find out today from him and post later.

emccomas

The 53 that I helped a friend sell recently (#1184) is now fully restored an in a private collection in Michigan with 11 other 1953 Corvette. Yes, I said eleven.

#1184 makes an even dozen for this collector.

csherman

I will give him a call - let him know

wake00

Thank you. Is this the 1953 Honor Roll? If so, I have a copy of the list.


Wow, that's a great story. I appreciate the help.


That's incredible. Through my search, I've found where there are several collectors with 53s. It's amazing.


No worries. I originally sent him a message about a good source for 53 info. This whole thing got started because when doing my research I found the 53 info not easily accessible. Noland Adams book was a great find.

Railroadman

Yes, that's the one. I figured you knew of it, but posted just in case you didn't.