Frame Off Restored Corvette Roadster 327 V8 4 Speed

1962 represents the end of the first-generation Corvette, often referred to as the 'solid axle' cars because of the four-wheel independent suspension added in 1963. Those C1s are widely regarded as wonderful cars, and probably laid the foundation for all the muscle that followed in the second half of the 1960s. The lines on the early cars are timeless and instantly recognizable as pure Corvette, and performance, thanks to a roster of potent V8s, was impressive.

This 1962 roadster is fresh out of the restoration shop and has only testing and tuning miles since it was completed. Refinished in the original Tuxedo Black, it's a first-class ticket to motoring fun this summer. In 1962, the side coves were painted body color, as two-tone paints were fading out as a relic of the 1950s. But GM designers didn't sit on their heels, despite an all-new car on the horizon for '63. The tail was a strong indicator of what was to come, and it is nicely integrated with the early style bodywork. The bodywork on this Vette is very nicely done, making this one very straight roadster. This finish is deep and lustrous thanks to modern two-stage urethane paint, and has obviously received a lot of block sanding and polishing to get it to this level. Panel fit and alignment is excellent, and the car has a feeling of being well assembled as it goes down the road.

Chrome was falling out of fashion in 1962, but the Corvette still carried quite a bit. The grille was redesigned with a black insert in the center, but the smooth bumperettes remained, and the cool strips of bright trim atop the front fenders enhance the appearance of speed and performance. The ribbed rocker panel moldings have been restored, which can be challenging on these cars. Large Corvette emblems front and rear leave no question about what kind of car this is, and they are excellent reproductions with crisp details.

Tilt the forward-opening hood and you'll find a correct 327 cubic inch V8, rated at a nice, round 300 horsepower. This was the first year for the 327, and it brought more torque to the party than the earlier 283s. Out of the 14,531 Corvettes built in 1962, only 3294 were equipped with the 327/300, which cost a very reasonable $54. Fully rebuilt with just shake-down miles, the small block spins to life effortlessly with that traditional small block growl. The engine bay is detailed for show and will score very well at national events. Chevy Orange paint covers the block, there are correct cast aluminum Corvette script valve covers, an authentic louvered chrome air cleaner, and the polished distributor shield remains in place. In '62, most cars still ran generators instead of alternators, and this one is no exception. Correct hoses and clamps have been used throughout the engine bay, and the radiator is cooled by a heavy duty clutch fan. With the satin black inner panels and underhood finish, the engine really pops and shows extremely well.

Underneath you'll find a Muncie M20 4-speed manual driving a GM 8.25-inch rear axle. The chassis has been refinished and is extremely clean, with good floors, a solid frame, and correct components used throughout. The frame and suspension components have been given a coat of satin black paint, and the bright orange oil pan really stands out. From underneath, you can also see that the engine still uses a canister style oil filter, which is correct for 1962 passenger cars. A fresh, correct dual exhaust system has been installed, complete with tips that turn down right behind the rear wheels as original. It rides on the original 15-inch steel wheels with fresh wheel covers and spinners installed by RK Motors Charlotte, as well as a set of new whitewall radials.

This Corvette carries a highly unusual Fawn interior as black cars are far more commonly found with red, white, or black interiors, making this one quite rare. Beautifully finished, with fresh materials used throughout, it transforms this '62 from simply a nice Corvette to, "Wow, I've never seen that before!" The seats are firm and supportive, thanks to fresh foam under the new seat covers, and the carpet is the correct grain and nap for an authentic appearance. The color-matched dashboard features rebuilt gauges, including the center-mounted tachometer with a 5500 RPM redline. The original Wonderbar AM radio still lives in the dash, but has been augmented by a trunk-mounted CD changer that is controlled by a remote on the transmission tunnel, both of which are easily removed for shows. This is also a two-top car, featuring a brand new black canvas folding top as well as the original removable hardtop, which is included with the car.

Every early Corvette we've featured here at RK Motors Charlotte has sold quickly, and we have a hard time keeping them in stock. This one, with its fresh restoration and unusual color combination, not to mention the crackling small block under the hood, is one of the nicer ones we've featured recently. They're not making any more of these, and the market has been extremely active lately with many cars just like this changing hands for strong prices. Make this the summer you finally put the Corvette of your dreams in the garage. Call today!