Evaluation: Represented as having a “correctly dated engine and transmission”, a different term from “the correct engine and transmission.” Excellent cosmetics, handsomely restored a while ago. Very good paint, upholstery and chrome. Good gauges but the chrome on the radio is weak. The chassis is like new.
Bottom Line: The ’53 Corvette is cherished, not because it was a paradigm of sports cars (being based on the Chevy sedan frame and suspension and powered by a breathed-on version of the Stovebolt Six) but because it represented the beginning an historic line of Corvettes that still excite imaginations today. This may not be the original engine but, ahh, so what? It’s a pristine older restored Corvette that sold for $210,600 at Barrett-Jackson WestWorld in 2004. The odometer today shows only 57 miles, 50 more than it did seventeen years ago and the car shows nothing but caring, consistent attention and no visible deterioration from the intervening years. The result here is sound and realistic, giving due consideration to the engine and transmission issues.
