1954 Corvette Restomod Combines Best of Old and New
Combining the best of new and old is what restomods are all about, and this C1 Corvette pulls it off masterfully.
Upgrades Wanted
Restomods are the answer to a very common problem. After all, everyone loves the style of old cars, but few want to suffer from the mundane power, poor fuel economy, loose handling, and rough ride they also force you to live with. Thus, classic Corvettes like this C1 we spotted at Mecum make the perfect candidates for some upgrades.
Photos Courtesy of Mecum Auctions.
Leave It Alone
True to form, this '54 retains its original body but not much else. Thankfully, however, the builder didn't try to reinvent the wheel by messing with the bodywork too much. After all, these cars are fabulous to look at as is.
Photos Courtesy of Mecum Auctions.
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Sourcing Suspension
The rest of the C1 is a completely different story, of course. It all starts underneath that attractive body, where a C4 Corvette gave up its front and rear suspension for this build.
Photos Courtesy of Mecum Auctions.
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Stop and Turn
The C4 Corvette also gave up its power brakes and power steering. And the wheels, though aftermarket, are a nod toward modern Corvette pieces as well.
Photos Courtesy of Mecum Auctions.
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Big Power
Under the hood, you'll undoubtedly notice the original six-cylinder engine is long gone, replaced by a firebreathing 454 big block producing around 400 hp.
Photos Courtesy of Mecum Auctions.
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Upgrade Me
The big V8 is fitted with a host of upgrades including headers, stainless steel exhaust, a 4-barrel carb, and modern ignition.
Photos Courtesy of Mecum Auctions.
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Easy Cruising
To ensure easy cruising with the big engine, a 700R4 transmission offers up an extra gear to keep the revs at a comfortable level when you just want to get out on the highway with little drama.
Photos Courtesy of Mecum Auctions.
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Classy and Comfy
The interior of this vintage 'Vette follows the same theme as the exterior. It looks pretty original, yet incorporates modern materials and design in its comfy leather seats with extra bolsters.
Photos Courtesy of Mecum Auctions.
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Modern Age
The original instrument panel has also been retained but fitted with modern gauges. There's also a smoothed out center console, aluminum steering wheel, and modern digital radio to bring things into the modern ages.
Photos Courtesy of Mecum Auctions.
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Tasteful Build
Overall, this C1 Corvette is a nicely executed build done with plenty of taste. And that's a very important thing in the world of restomods. Too often, they lose the original character of the car during this transformation. But this beautiful '54 has retained every bit of its original appeal while also offering up plenty of modern features.
Photos Courtesy of Mecum Auctions.
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