An American legend on four wheels – the 1960 Chevrolet Corvette C1
The 1960 Chevrolet Corvette C1 takes you back to a time when driving was defined by mechanics rather than by electronics. More than half a century after its release, the timeless grace and lines of this sports car make it an exhilarating piece in its own right, that certainly can stand up to any other car manufacturer of the time.
This iconic vehicle embodies the dreams and ambitions of an entire generation’s “American way of life”, offering a spectacular blend of performance and design.
| Cylinders | 8 |
| Mileage (km) | 90000 |
| Engine size | 4637 cc |
| Performance (kW/hp) | 230 |
| First registration date | 1960 |
| Vehicle condition | 2 |
Beneath the elegant hood of the Corvette C1 is a powerful 4.6-litre V8 engine that came in various power outputs, from 230 hp to an impressive 290 hp on the optional injection model. Accelerating from 0-60 mph in about 7 seconds and with a top speed of around 150 mph, the Corvette C1 was a serious sports car in its day. Both the 4-speed manual transmission and the optional 3-speed automatic transmission provided a dynamic driving experience and made every journey an adventure.
The design of the 1960 Corvette C1 is a true masterpiece. The striking front end with chrome-trimmed radiator grille, the elegant twin headlights and curved fenders give this car an unmistakable presence on the road. The two-tone paint and eye-catching design features like the side trim and tailfins emphasise the Corvette’s sporty character. It features a removable hardtop and foldable soft top for flexibility, offering you a delightful driving experience whatever the weather.
Technically, the Corvette C1 was a pioneer of its time. The use of a lightweight fibreglass body helped reduce overall weight and improve driving dynamics. The beautiful paintwork, the iconic whitewall tyres and chrome galore provide a good dose of nostalgia, while the shark teeth of the slick radiator grille clearly state: "I can bite".
To prove that the Corvette was also a competitive car on the track, Briggs Cunningham took several models to the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1960. The fastest of his collection finished in 8th place.
Our auction vehicle was first registered in the USA in June 1960 and presents itself today in pristine condition. How the car came to Europe and ended up in Switzerland remains a mystery.
The current owner fully restored the Corvette C1 in 2007 and bought it from a US dealer in Switzerland with veteran entry status. All the work has been carried out promptly and professionally. It’s a dream car, the likes of which you’re unlikely to see any time soon; 4-speed manual transmission, uncomplicated and one-of-a-kind.
