Chevrolet Corvette C1
The definitive quad-headlight C1, featuring the iconic 'washboard' hood and chrome trunk spears.
- Power
- 230 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 7.6 s
- Top speed
- 112 mph
- Est. value
- $85k–$165k
About the Chevrolet Corvette C1
The 1958 model year marked a significant aesthetic overhaul for the C1 Corvette, introducing the distinctive quad-headlight arrangement and a more ornate exterior. It is easily identified by its unique one-year-only features, including the louvred 'washboard' hood and twin chrome trunk spears. Underneath, the 283 cubic-inch V8 remained the heart of the car, available with various carburettor setups or Rochester fuel injection. This iteration represents the peak of 1950s American chrome-heavy design before the C1 was streamlined in its final years.
Chevrolet Corvette C1 specs
The Chevrolet Corvette C1 produces 230 bhp (172 kW) and 407 Nm (300 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 7.6 seconds and has a top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h).
| Make | Chevrolet |
|---|---|
| Model | Corvette |
| Generation | C1 |
| Trim | Corvette |
| Years | 1953–1962 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Convertible |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 69,015 built |
| Original price | About $3,600 when new |
| Engine | 283 cu in (4.6-litre) V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,638 cc (4.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 230 bhp (172 kW) at 4,800 rpm |
| Torque | 407 Nm (300 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 7.6 s |
| Top speed | 112 mph (180 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,380 kg (3,042 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 167 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Chevrolet Corvette C1 worth?
A typical Chevrolet Corvette C1 is estimated to be worth $85,000 – $165,000 (about £63,000 – £123,000).
Its original price when new was about $3,600.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Chevrolet Corvette C1 rarity in CarSpot
The Chevrolet Corvette C1 is an Epic card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 69 out of 100. Supercars and serious performance cars, typically worth around £100,000 to £250,000. An Epic card is worth 80 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Chevrolet Corvette C1 fun facts
- The 1958 model is the only Corvette to feature the decorative chrome 'trunk spears' and the louvred 'washboard' hood.
- This was the first year the Corvette featured a factory-installed tachometer mounted directly in front of the driver on the steering column.
- Despite the heavy use of chrome, 1958 was the first year the Corvette turned a significant profit for Chevrolet, ensuring the model's survival.
