C1 – First Generation (1953 – 1962)

         Only 300 roadsters were produced for the 1953 model year, they were all Polo White with Red interiors. The 1953 and 1954 were equipped with 235ci in-line six known as the “Blue Flame”. The Blue Flame produced 150hp, making it the most powerful inline-six Chevrolet had to offer to date.  While not as exotic as some of their competitors, such as Jaguars DOHC six, it was a notable accomplishment considering that the American carmaker had never built a performance engine before. 

       
         Of course, no one could have anticipated the rapid development of the SBC (Small Block Chevy), which would soon relegate the Blue Flame to the Corvette history books. This generation is often referred to as the "solid-axle" models as the independent rear suspension was not introduced until the second generation. The 1954 model year vehicles could be ordered in Pennant Blue, Sportsman Red, Black, or Polo White. In the 1954 model year, there were 3,640 units built, but ultimately, they were sold slowly.

In 1956, a new body was introduced featuring a new "face" and side coves, the taillamp fins were also gone. An optional fuel injection system was made available in the middle of the 1957 model year. It was one of the first mass-produced engines in history to reach 1 bhp per cubic inch. Chevrolet's advertising agency promptly used a "one hp per cubic inch" slogan for advertising the new 283ci Small-Block engine.

         Other options included power windows (56), hydraulically operated power convertible top (56), heavy duty brakes and suspension (57), and a four-speed manual transmission (late 57). Delco Radio produced a  transistorized signal-seeking "hybrid" car radio, which used both vacuum tubes and transistors in its radio's circuitry.

The 1958 Corvette received extensive body and interior redesign which included a longer front end with quad headlamps, 9 tooth grills (previously 13), bumper exiting exhaust tips, a new steering wheel, and a dashboard with all gauges mounted directly in front of the driver. 1958 was also the first year the Corvette saw factory installed seat belts. Exclusive to the 1958 model were hood louvers and twin chrome trunk spears.

In 1961, the rear of the Corvette was completely redesigned with the addition of a "ducktail" that had four round lights. The quad brake light design would remain a recognizable feature for all following model year Corvettes until it was changed in 2014. 
 

In 1962, the Chevrolet 283ci was replaced by a larger 327ci. In standard form it produced 250hp. For an extra 12% over list price, the fuel-injected version produced 360 bhp, making it the fastest of the first generation. 1962 was also the last year for the wrap around windshield, solid rear axle, and convertible-only body style. The trunk lid and exposed headlamps also would not reappear again for many decades.