Description

When Chevrolet first launched the Corvette in 1953, sales were minimal; Then came the launch of this 1956 Corvette, the very first model to include a V8 engine. This transformed the Corvette into an instant bedrock in American hot rod culture. When launched, this Corvette was touted as providing "superbly practical motoring, with every luxury and convenience your heart may covet, and accompanies this with a soul-satisfying ferocity of performance." It has since become America's classic sports car. The white exterior of this classic makes it a standout on the road, or at a car show. This vehicle was the winner of the NCRS Top Flight Award in 2004.

POWERTRAIN In the engine bay is a period-correct, 265-cu.in., dual four-barrel, solid-lifter [OHV V8] engine (with 225-horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque). While not original to the car, it does have the correct date codes and casting numbers [for the block and heads]. It was over-bored for 283 pistons and rebuilt to stock specifications, including new connecting rods, bearings, pistons, camshaft, lifters, rockers, hardened exhaust valve seats, valves, and more. The V8’s reciprocating assembly, flywheel, and clutch were balanced, and the engine area components were restored/rebuilt and have correct casting numbers and date codes.


Additionally, all of the rare ‘first-design’ Corvette engine components, which were installed in the first 600 cars produced in 1956, are installed, as this car was number 437 off the line. They include the first-design dual four-barrel intake manifold; 9-fin, no notches Corvette rocker covers; choke heat mechanism; oil pan with passenger-side dipstick; single-bracket-mount generator; unique dual-point distributor; dual four-barrel carburetors; exhaust manifolds that are the same on both sides and have two-bolt exhaust pipe flanges; and the ignition shielding. The exhaust system was upgraded to aluminized steel pipes.

EXTERIOR The car was refinished in 2002, and the front was repainted in 2020. No swirls, scratches, or chips are present, but the front has three small defects that show under fluorescent lighting at the right angle. The body is straight, the gaps are better than stock, and the trim is show quality. An Al Knoch Interiors convertible top (with pads) was installed in January 2023, and opens and closes as intended. During the restoration, the windshield and windows were replaced with new date-coded glass, and the seals remain excellent. All of the lights work, and the original T3 headlights, which were replaced with modern sealed beams, are included. The same scenario is true for the gas cap.

INTERIOR In the early 2000s, the seats were treated to new foam and Al Knoch high-quality, original-style red vinyl covers. The door and kick panels and the carpet were also replaced. There are no issues in the cabin. The instruments, heater, and courtesy under-dash lights operate properly, and the trim is complete. Though it maintains a stock appearance, the working original AM radio has been upgraded with FM capability. Seatbelts have also been added. The cigarette lighter has been disconnected for safety, as has the clock, so it does not drain the battery during storage.

CHASSIS Periodic servicing has followed since the total rebuild of the suspension in 2003. Its bushings and shocks are still fine with only 5,800 miles on them. Also restored was the four-wheel drum braking system that features a few updates. Stainless steel brake lines, new brass junctions, new flexible brake lines, and upgraded Kevlar-faced brake shoes with appropriate spring kits were installed, as were new brake wheel cylinders and the resleeved/rebuilt master cylinder.

Stock steel wheels roll on one-year-old Diamondback whitewall radials with only about 100-150 miles on them. A bias-ply whitewall reproduction spare tire was purchased around 2003, and it has no miles on it. The steering wheel points straight when the car is traveling straight, there’s no play in the system, no vibrations at highway speed, and it stops better than stock.