1961 Chevrolet

283ci V8 | Manual Transmission | Fawn Beige Metallic | Removable Hardtop

Some cars earn their place in automotive history through innovation. Others become icons simply because of how they make people feel.

The Chevrolet Corvette C1 manages both.

Finished in elegant Fawn Beige Metallic with a matching Fawn interior, this 1961 Corvette Roadster represents the final evolution of Chevrolet’s original sports car before the introduction of the larger 327 V8 the following year. It is a beautifully specified example, combining the legendary 283ci small-block V8 with the driver’s choice of a manual gearbox and the added versatility of a removable hardtop.

By 1961 the Corvette had truly found its identity. The flowing bodywork, dramatic side coves and generous chrome detailing remained, while the rear styling adopted the now-famous four-tail-light design that would become a Corvette hallmark for generations to come. More than sixty years later, it remains one of the most recognisable shapes ever produced by General Motors.

This particular car presents wonderfully in its period-correct colour combination. The subtle Fawn Beige paintwork perfectly suits the curves of the C1 body, while the whitewall tyres and brightwork provide exactly the right balance of elegance and presence. It attracts attention wherever it goes, though never in an overly flamboyant way. It is simply a beautiful car.

Under the bonnet sits Chevrolet’s famous 283ci V8 producing 230 horsepower in factory specification. The engine stamping appears to correspond with the car’s chassis sequence and carries the correct CQ suffix associated with the 230hp manual-transmission cars, providing strong indication that the car retains its original matching-number engine.

More importantly, it delivers exactly the experience enthusiasts hope for from an early Corvette. The small-block V8 is responsive, full of character and perfectly matched to the manual transmission. There is a simplicity and honesty to the driving experience that modern sports cars often struggle to replicate. You sit low behind the wraparound dashboard, look out over those distinctive front wings and enjoy the unmistakable soundtrack of a Chevrolet V8.

Inside, the Fawn interior continues the car’s wonderfully authentic feel. Chrome accents, period instruments and classic Corvette styling create an atmosphere that is every bit as special as the exterior suggests. The supplied removable hardtop gives the car a completely different personality when fitted, making it as enjoyable to admire in the garage as it is to drive on the road.

History & Documentation

The VIN, 10867S103653, identifies the car as a genuine 1961 Corvette Roadster built at Chevrolet’s St. Louis plant.

Although we always encourage prospective buyers to satisfy themselves regarding originality, the engine stamping appears to carry the corresponding sequence number along with the correct CQ suffix for a 230hp manual-transmission Corvette, providing encouraging evidence that this example retains its original engine.

The car was registered in the UK in April 2022 and is correctly registered with the DVLA as a Historic Vehicle.

There is also documented history with Pilgrim Motorsports, who carried out substantial work following the car’s arrival in the UK. Records show attention given to both cosmetic presentation and mechanical condition, including paint and body rectification, polishing, servicing and replacement of various components where required.

Having previously known and maintained the car ourselves, it is particularly nice to see it return to Pilgrim once again.

Specification

1961 Chevrolet Corvette C1 Roadster

283ci (4. 6-litre) Small-Block V8

230hp Factory Specification

Manual Transmission

Fawn Beige Exterior

Fawn Interior

Matching-Number Engine Indications

Removable Hardtop

Period Whitewall Tyres

UK Registered

Historic Vehicle Status

Supporting History File

Previous Maintenance by Pilgrim Motorsports

The Verdict

There are faster classics. There are rarer classics. There are certainly more complicated classics.

But few cars capture the optimism and character of 1960s America quite like a C1 Corvette.

Finished in an elegant colour combination, equipped with the desirable manual transmission and supported by documented UK history, this is a Corvette that offers far more than simple garage appeal. It is a car to be admired, driven and enjoyed exactly as Chevrolet intended.

For further information, or to arrange a viewing, please contact the Pilgrim V8 team.

£104, 995