SKU:Lot 31
Chevrolet Corvette C1 (1959)
Chevrolet Corvette C1 (1959)
| Bidder | Amount | Date |
|---|
Facts & Figures
| Estimate | CHF 75'000 - 90'000 |
| Condition | 2 - Good |
| First registration | 1959 |
| Odometer | 26'900 |
| Veteran registration | |
| Engine | 5.7-litre small-block V8 (350 cubic inches) |
| Power (KW/HP) | 192/261 |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual transmission |
| Drive type | Rear-wheel drive (RWD) |
| Steering | Left-hand drive (LHD) |
| Exterior color | White/Red |
| Interior | Red leather |
American Sports Car Icon with Potent Small-Block – the 1959 Chevrolet Corvette C1
With the Corvette, Chevrolet entered a world in the early 1950s that had previously been dominated largely by European manufacturers: that of the open two-seater sports car. The second-generation Corvette, comprehensively revised in 1956, established the distinctive design language that ultimately turned the model into an American sports car icon. For the 1959 model year, this concept was further refined. With its sweeping wings, distinctive side sections and clearly defined appearance typical of the later C1 models, the bodywork was particularly elegant. At the same time, with its V8 and available 4-speed manual transmission, the Corvette already offered the combination of performance and driving enjoyment that would make it one of the most significant American sports cars of its era.
The 1959 model year was already technically fascinating. The 283-cubic-inch V8 was offered in a range of power outputs, from the 230 bhp base engine to performance-oriented versions featuring twin carburettors or Ramjet fuel injection. The optional 4-speed manual transmission appealed to buyers who wanted to experience the Corvette’s sporting potential in a particularly direct manner. Around 9,670 Corvettes were produced for the 1959 model year, exclusively as convertibles.
The example offered here combines the classic appearance of the C1 with a contemporary interpretation of its powertrain concept. In place of the originally specified 283-cubic-inch V8, it is now fitted with a 350-cubic-inch small-block with a displacement of 5,731 cc. Developing 192 kW, or 261 bhp, this engine offers noticeably greater displacement and power than the original production units of the period. Combined with the 4-speed manual transmission, this creates an appealing blend of classic C1 styling and potent American V8 performance.
The Corvette has been in the ownership of its current owner for around ten years. He acquired it from a well-known dealer specialising in American cars in Zurich. Prior to this, the car had already been restored by its then owner around 30 years ago. Unfortunately, no documentation relating to this restoration remains, meaning that the work can no longer be traced in detail. Nevertheless, the car’s present condition is all the more interesting, as it presents in a well-kept and generally good condition.
Around nine years ago, the cylinder-head gaskets were replaced. The Corvette most recently underwent a Swiss veteran inspection in July 2023. The Swiss vehicle registration document records, among other things, details relating to the emissions test, exhaust system and registered power output. The car’s current technical specification can therefore also be clearly traced in relation to its Swiss registration.
Visually, the Corvette presents in a classic white-and-red colour combination. The light exterior colour showcases the characteristic lines of the C1 to particularly striking effect, while the red leather interior provides a strong contrast and reinforces the unmistakable American character of this open sports car. With an indicated odometer reading of 26,900 kilometres, the car also offers an attractive proposition for enthusiasts of early Corvettes.
Behind the wheel, the C1 reveals its original character: low-slung, open and immediate. The potent 350-cubic-inch small-block provides effortless forward thrust, while the manual four-speed transmission allows the delivery of power to be experienced directly. It is precisely this combination of classic bodywork, V8 soundtrack and manual transmission that defines the appeal of this particular example. Rather than being about outright top speed, the emphasis is on the distinctive driving experience offered by an American sports car from the classic era.
Preview Event – Vehicle Inspection
Preview Event – Vehicle Inspection
Take advantage of the exclusive opportunity to inspect the auction vehicles in person before the official online auction begins.
At our Preview Event, you will have the opportunity to view the vehicles offered at your leisure, assess their condition firsthand and discover the individual features and details of each vehicle. Our experts from Emil Frey Classics AG will also be available in person to answer any questions you may have regarding the vehicles.
Unable to attend the Preview Event?
No problem. Please feel free to contact the Auction Management Team. Upon request, we will be happy to provide you with the vehicle inspection report prepared by our experts for the auction vehicle of your choice. This will give you additional information about the vehicle and its condition, even if you are unable to inspect it in person.
We recommend that all interested bidders make use of the opportunity to attend the Preview Event or request a vehicle inspection report in order to obtain comprehensive information about their desired auction vehicle before placing a bid.
Terms and conditions of participation
Terms and conditions of participation
Only natural persons of legal age and with unlimited legal capacity, as well as legal entities, are eligible to participate. Legal entities must be represented by a natural person who is either authorised to represent them according to the extract from the commercial register or who has the appropriate power of attorney. Emil Frey Classics AG reserves the right to exclude participants from the auction without giving reasons.
Registration
Registration
To participate in the online auction, a one-time registration is required in advance. Please provide your personal details, including your name, address, place of residence, telephone number, and email address.
Once we have received your registration details, we will review and verify your information. Your customer account will then be activated for use as a bidder. Within 24 hours of successful registration, you will receive an email confirming that your account has been verified and activated on our auction platform.
Once your account has been activated, you can participate in our online auctions and place bids. Simply sign in using the login button with your email address. A 6-digit verification code for signing in will be sent to your email address each time you log in.
Please register well in advance to ensure that your account is activated before the auction begins, allowing you to participate without delay.
Auction hammer price and minimum bid
Auction hammer price and minimum bid
The bid is accepted by the highest bidder after the minimum price or higher has been reached, either after the bidding period has expired or at the moment when no further bids are submitted and the auction is closed by Emil Frey Classics AG.
Acceptance of the minimum bid – “Sold”
When the bid is accepted and the minimum bid (minimum price) or higher is reached, a legally binding purchase contract is concluded between the seller and the highest bidder.
Bid accepted below the minimum bid – “Reserved, not sold”
If a bid is made at a price below the minimum bid (minimum price), the vehicle is considered “not sold subject to reservation.” Vehicles that could not be sold during the auction or for which the minimum bid was not reached can be renegotiated after the auction in consultation with the consignor or owner. In such cases, Emil Frey Classics AG acts exclusively as an intermediary between the potential buyer and the consignor or owner, unless it expressly acts as the seller itself. A purchase contract is only concluded with the express consent of both parties.
Reservation of Emil Frey Classics AG
Emil Frey Classics AG reserves the right to decide freely on the acceptance of bids. In particular, it may refuse or cancel the bid, interrupt or cancel the auction, withdraw the auction item or put it up for auction again, and reject bids.
Auction terms – Purchase price & fees
Auction terms – Purchase price & fees
The purchase price corresponds to the highest bid (hammer price) plus an auction commission of 11% of the hammer price.
General Terms and Conditions (GTC)
General Terms and Conditions (GTC)
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