Celebrating the craftsmanship and character of this American legend was central to our client’s vision. Together we sourced the right C1 and started planning out all of the modern performance upgrades and amenities we wanted to pack in this compact frame. Many months later we are able to unveil the finished build, complete with modern Chevy performance parts and everyday creature comforts.
The following is not an exhaustive list of what was done, but it covers the key additions:
- LS3 Engine
- Coil Over Shocks
- Disc Brakes
- Exhaust
- Custom Leather Upholstery
- Digital Gauge Cluster + Custom Console
- Power Windows & Locks
- Air Conditioning
- Custom Audio System
- Ceramic Coating
A Very Brief History Of The 1962 C1 Corvette
The 1962 Corvette was the last year of the C1 Body style before the C2 “stingray” was introduced. Its design is very similar to 1961 except for a few small differences like the gills. Bill Mitchell who designed the “Mako Shark I” concept had a large influence on its design. Which is why in 1961 the C1 Corvette gained what many enthusiasts call the “ducktail” rear end which helped to improve trunk space and aerodynamics. These design changes also introduced a pair of round taillights that can be found throughout other generations of Corvettes.
For the front end the “teeth” of the Corvette’s grille were replaced with a wire mesh. In addition, the emblem on the front became a different version of the iconic crossed flags with the addition of Corvette nameplate lettering beneath. A final tweak was made to the headlights swapping the chrome trim with matching body paint.
Renewing the Exterior
Dated paint formulas and several touch-ups left this old Corvette cracked, uneven, and discolored. In conditions like this it’s best to sand it down, prime it, and repaint it the color of your choice.
We started stripping off all the red paint. It took a decent amount of dust and time to smooth out the body while fixing any issues that were uncovered. Once our restoration team was satisfied it was time to start priming everything for a new coat of paint.
A fresh even layer of primer was sprayed on before we brought it back to the paint booth. For this restoration our client chose a metallic dark grey opposed to the original red paint job.
Many of the exterior accents including most of the emblems were replaced with genuine parts. Other parts like the U-shaped bumpers were refinished. This is how the team was able to get a look that feels brand new.
To recap the changes of each section we included a list to help follow along.
- Genuine Corvette Emblems
- New Chrome Plating
- Metallic Grey Paint Job
- Ceramic Coating
Updating the Interior
With the new body color selected we needed an interior that suited it. Even though the black leather seats were in decent condition the rest of the interior had seen better days. After all, this ride has been around for over 63 years at the time of this restoration!
The new interior features custom leather upholstery with Corvette branding stitched into the back of the seat. It has a modern look and enhanced comfort, but still draws some inspiration from the original design with the vertical tuck and roll leather. Below the seats you’ll find a fresh, stain-free, carpet that gives the corvette a much cleaner feel. While the inner door features a smooth, black leather and grey Alcantara upholstery like the seats.
Now for some of the tech improvements. There’s a new Dakota Digital behind the original steering wheel for more reliability. For added convenience and comfort there is are digital HVAC Controls along with window and lock switches. Those sturdy power window and lock switches have taken over the center counsel area along with brushed metal cup holders.
1960’s audio systems aren’t what they are today so we gave it an upgrade. It includes a vintage looking radio from Custom Auto Sounds plus full-range kicker panel and dash speakers from Hertz Audio. These improvements provide a more up to date and clear audio experience.
- Custom Corvette Branded Leather Upholstery
- Dakota Digital Gauge Cluster
- Custom Center Console with Window & Lock Switches
- Digital HVAC Controls
- Hertz Full-Range Kicker Panel Speakers
- Hertz Full-Range Dash Speakers
- Vintage Looking Radio
- Black Carpet
Suspension and Wheels
This build’s chassis was completely replaced. Now it includes 4 wheel independent suspension with high-quality coil over shocks and large disc brakes to handle the upgrade in horsepower. These enhancements allow it to handle like a dream out on the road.
Instead of the original Corvette rims our client wanted to modernize the look. We did so by attaching Budnik Tungsten wheels. This wheel design has a coated cobalt dark grey cerakote that goes along with the body color.
- Budnik Tungsten Wheels
- Aldan American Coil Over Shocks
- C6 Corvette Disc Breaks
Mechanical and Electrical
The real star of this build is the LS3 Engine under the hood which delivers about 425hp. It’s also the same engine used in the 2008-2013 Corvettes. Including the engine, body, and chassis this car weighs around 3,000lbs. Which means this little sucker zips around at nearly 7lbs/hp.
Of course, this upgrade requires some major tuning along with a new brake setup to handle the increased power and performance. All-new neatly packed wiring accompanies the engine and upgraded interior equipment to ensure everything is running safe and smooth.
- Chevrolet LS3 Engine
- New Electric Wiring
- Flow Master Exhaust
The Future Of the 1962 Corvette
Corvettes have been an object of obsession for many years, and that’s not going to change anytime soon. This American sports car is one of the most iconic vehicles ever built and has seen so many changes throughout the years.
Classic C1 Corvettes will continue to hold their value as the start of a legendary lineage. It’s an exciting piece of history that holds a special place in many American hearts. Hopefully you see this one out on Route 66 near St. Louis!
Sneak Peak At Our Next Restoration
Next up on our restoration list we have a pair of 1971 Ford Broncos that are mid-build. If you are interested in owning one of these there is still time to customize it to your liking. Choose the body color, upholstery, and other details to make it all your own! Contact us if you’re interested.
We hope you enjoyed learning about this build. If you’re interested in more vintage cars view all our past restoration projects.
Feel free to explore more of our custom builds by browsing our showroom!
