Zora Arkus-Duntov

Fifty years ago, Chevrolet decided to counter the influx of European sports cars like the MG TC by producing one of its own. The ’53 roadster, dubbed the Corvette (after a small, fast, maneuverable naval vessel) looked great, sported a triple-carburetored six, and, believe it or not, a two-speed automatic transmission. Off to a shaky start, the little roadster suffered from low sales numbers and was thoroughly trounced by Ford’s debut sports roadster – the Thunderbird – in 1955. Ironically, that event caused Chevy to decide to keep the Corvette in production. Along the way, a driver/engineer named Zora Duntov “adopted” the marque – and the rest is history.

Let’s look at one of the latest entries in DM’s quest to eat FM’s lunch. Put their ‘53 next to the FM image and tick off the differences: a full suspension, opening rear deck lid and gas-filler door, precision, car-style door hinges, and a cloth top – complete with removable side curtains (which come with storage bags when removed, to store in the trunk!). Details – you want details? How about an intricately rendered dash (no decals here), undercarriage and engine bay (the hood even sports the original prop assembly – DM really shines in this department). The trunk mat comes out, as does the spare tire cover, to reveal the removable spare tire. Chrome accents are just that – separate chrome parts – that are beautifully and delicately formed. The scale on all parts seems spot-on, with nothing looking especially oversized. This is most evident in the wipers and side “spear” moldings. The extra effort put into this little beauty makes it a jewel to behold. This is a fitting tribute to “America's Sports Car” on its 50th anniversary. Incidentally, purchase of this image makes you eligible to get the 1969, the 1960, 1964, and 1996 limited editions too when they come out. Kind of makes your mouth water, doesn’t it? Don’t get me wrong – FM’s done a fine job on its recent Corvette C-5 images. It’s just that DM seems to be starting from the beginning and getting a running start to leap into the Corvette collector’s market with both feet. Seems to me it’s time for FM to start reading the handwriting appearing on the wall.

Sitting next to the 2003 C-5, the little ’53 looks to be about 6-9 inches shorter, not quite as wide, but, save for the higher windshield, has a profile just about as low to the ground. Though the technological gap is as wide as the Grand Canyon, the bloodlines are definitely there. From its unassuming genesis, to its position as a World-Class sports car fifty years later, the Corvette has earned its pedigree.

This model is being produced for only one year as a salute to the 50th anniversary of the Corvette, then will be retired. The issue price is $135. Only buyers will be eligible to purchase the other four cars in this series: '60, '64, '69, '96.

(04/25/2003)

All the detail of the original car is precisely re-created, from the sporty interior, with seats that "give".

Removable Hardtops available aftermarket. Not a Chevrolet dealer accessory and not a factory option.

Estimates of 75 buyers chose the manual transmission as an option.

7 buyers opted for the inline 6 235ci, 155hp engine.

curb weight 2851 w/inline 6

The 1956 model Corvette was a turning point for the direction of the Chevrolet Corvette. The 53-55 Corvette model years had many flaws that the public could not get passed. Along with a high price tag around $3500, which was nearly twice the cost of a typical family sedan, and being outsold at a ration of 23-1 by the Ford Thunderbird, General motors was on the brink of bringing the Sports Car to an end. The passion of Harley Earl would not allow that to happen and he plunged headlong into addressing all the issues surrounding the C1 model years. A full scale model of a new Corvette design that Harley had finalized and introduced to GM's management was immediately approved. The result was the 1956 C2 corvette, and from that year on the design and performance would cement the Corvettes long history, although there were a few hiccups along the way, as a serious racetrack contender and American Sports Car. 

First year for fuel injection, and optional 4 speed transmission.

1393 buyers chose the powerglide automatic transmission as an option.

The 1958 Corvette model year introduced dual headlights, and seatbelts were factory installed.

Soft top version height was 51.1

curb weight with automatic transmission as an option was 3034.

Curb weight for vehicles sold with automatic transmission was 3135

Curb weight for vehicles sold with automatic transmission 3090, add 55 to either transmission version for optional hardtop.

Curb weight for vehicles sold with automatic transmission 3135, add 55 to either transmission version for optional hardtop.

This year corvette came with an option for a 427ci with 390, 400, 430, or 435hp.

Buyers could choose an optional turbo hydra-matic automatic transmission.