Buyers Guide: C1 Corvette

Before you consider buying your next C1 Corvette (1953-1962), read our “buyers guide” which will tell you everything you need to know before you buy your next car.

The C1 Corvette has four different styles; 1953 to 1955, 1956 to 1957, 1958 to 1961 and 1961 to 1962.
Main points to check on a C1 before buying:
As you probably already know, corvettes are fibreglass which do not rust. However, the frame is a HUGE part of the C1 to look over before making the deal. The frames on the C1’s usually rust. Check throughout the vehicle underneath to ensure it’s not rusted out.
C1 Corvettes are connected using things called “bonding strips”. Be sure to check inside all four wheel wells for any damage or repair in sight. 9/10 times, the accidents that require work will be easily visible inside the wheel wells.
Look around the vehicle and see if you notice any inconsistencies with door, hood, trunk or panel fitment. If you notice anything , ask the seller why it’s misaligned. Most of the time, a misaligned panel indicates that work has been done on the vehicle, sometimes reparation from an accident.
One of the biggest things that determines a Corvettes price tag is whether the original engine and transmission are in the car. “Matching numbers” is a huge factor. The last 6 digits of the vin number should be on the engine pad of the same car (viewable from passenger side) which would mean it’s matching numbers with the original engine. Lots of cars had changed engines so make sure you know what you’re buying. Below are have three photos to show you. The first is a real vin tag; the second is a fake one. Look at the differences in the way it’s obvious, right? The second one has been re attached and may not even be from the same car. The third photo is to show what the engine pad stamping looks like. It should have your vin number of the car you’re looking at on the engine pad (if it is matching numbers)