1954 C1 Corvette Subtle Restomod Looks Just Right
After nearly flopping during its initial production run, the Corvette stayed its course and now almost eight generations later is still one of the most recognizable sports cars on the road. Even after falling short of expectations, restomods like this 1954 C1 remind us why Corvette is such a great car, regardless of model year and modifications done by brand loyalists and builders alike.
Less is More
Check out this beautifully restored 1954 Corvette Roadster listed on Mecum Auctions. With an original 'Vette body combined with modern underpinnings and power, its the perfect restomod bound to turn heads and attract the attention it did when the first generation model launched in 1953.
Photo courtesy of Mecum Auctions
Under the Hood
The Corvette's original 235 CI inline 6-cylinder engine has been replaced with a Chevy's 400 hp big-block 454 CI V8. Mecum notes the engine comes equipped with headers, a stainless-steel quad-pipe exhaust, upgraded ignition, and a single four-barrel carburetor. In addition, an aftermarket aluminum radiator provides the 454 with proper cooling. Driving the 454 is a GM 700R4 automatic gearbox with 30 percent overdrive in fourth gear that sends power to the rear wheels.
Photo courtesy of Mecum Auctions
>>Join the conversation about this classic C1 restomod right here in Corvette Forum.
Screened Lights
Other styling details left maintained from the original '54 Corvette are the screened headlights. The "fencing mask" headlight covers were part of the image of the era. These cages were often used on race cars of the period to keep the headlights from getting broken by rocks and road debris.
Photo courtesy of Mecum Auctions
>>Join the conversation about this classic C1 restomod right here in Corvette Forum.
Interior Delight
According to Mecum, the interior features black and gray custom leather seats with heavy-duty bolsters set to keep both driver and passenger comfortably in place, especially on curvy roads. The color-coordinated and smoothed instrument panel keeps the original 1954 speedometer design. Additionally, six modern aftermarket analog gauges are spread across the center. At the top center, a modern digital radio powers the sound system. Even the center console is smoothed out, leaving room for the custom shifter. A custom, aftermarket, gray leather-trimmed, aluminum 6-spoke steering wheel tops out the interior controls.
Photo courtesy of Mecum Auctions
>>Join the conversation about this classic C1 restomod right here in Corvette Forum.
The Whole Package
Rounding off this '54 restomod are modern 10-spoke aluminum aftermarket wheels and wide tires that support all four corners of the car and provide room for the C4 Corvette-sourced front and rear suspension, larger C4 power brake rotors featuring red-painted calipers, and modern power steering.
Photo courtesy of Mecum Auctions
>>Join the conversation about this classic C1 restomod right here in Corvette Forum.
Subtle is Good
Listed at an estimated value of $80k-$100k, this restored '54 Corvette beautifully blends modern amenities with everything that makes the original C1 generation great. An added bonus of this restomod is that many of the upgraded parts come from later generations of its fellow Corvette brethren. For any restomod like this, keeping parts within the same manufacturing family adds appeal and value to these classics. The subtle enhancements to this '54 Corvette will still turn heads as any 'Vette, past or present, always does.
Photo courtesy of Mecum Auctions
>>Join the conversation about this classic C1 restomod right here in Corvette Forum.
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