DTD - 1956 Chevrolet Corvette 283 3-Speed Project
Vehicle Details
- Year: 1956
- Make: Chevrolet
- Model: Corvette
- VIN: E56S003696
- Mileage: 86,000mi (TMU)
- Transmission: Manual
- Title Status: Clean
- Color: Venetian Red
- Seller Type: Private Party
- Location: Osbornville, NJ 08723
- Lot #: V-0042875
The first-generation Chevrolet Corvette was introduced in 1953, deriving its name from the corvette warship characterized by its smaller size and maneuverability. Representing the first generation of Chevrolet’s iconic Corvette sports car, this C1 debuted several notable changes for the 1956 model year including a new body, glass roll-up windows, and a more robust convertible top. General Motors produced a mere 3,467 Corvettes for the year, marking it as the third-rarest model year in terms of production volume. Featuring a factory hardtop, Wonderbar radio, and a replacement 3-speed manual transaxle, this non-running C1 presents as an ideal candidate for a full restoration and is now being offered by its seller out of New Jersey.
The fiberglass bodywork features a factory hardtop and includes distinctive side coves behind the front wheels, pronounced rear fins, and dual exhaust outlets integrated into the rear bumper. Additionally, the wraparound windshield is housed within a chrome surround, as chrome trim follows the grille, side moldings, bumperettes, and window surrounds. Most of this example’s paint has been stripped away, revealing traces of its reportedly original Venetian Red color. It rides on aftermarket wheels with older tires. Detailed images depicting the vehicle’s condition are provided in the gallery.
The cabin features red vinyl accents along the top of the dashboard and door panels, along with a matching three-spoke steering wheel. A white-finished dashboard and chrome trim complete the interior, along with a matching shift knob and roll-up windows, and a dashboard-mounted rear view mirror. The factory gauges and Wonderbar radio are said to remain in the vehicle. The seats have been removed, and the gauges, electronics, and accessories are inoperable, leaving the cabin ready for restoration.
Beneath the hood lies a 283ci V8 engine factory rated at 283 HP. The original transmission has been replaced with a period-correct 3-speed manual transmission, driving the rear wheels. The vehicle is currently not running, making it an ideal candidate for refurbishment.
This sale will include a clean title.
The seller would like you to know: “This is an original 1956 Corvette that retains most of its factory components. The engine numbers match those of a '56 Corvette originally equipped with an automatic transmission, now fitted with a period-correct 3-speed manual. This car comes from the collection of a well-known Pennsylvania car enthusiast, acquired in the 1970s and stored in a 'barn' in the Pittsburgh area. It is complete, with the exception of some trim pieces, and boasts a 'no-hit' body with well-preserved fiberglass. Most of the paint was stripped before long-term storage. It retains all of its original gauges and the original Wonderbar radio. This car is an outstanding candidate for restoration, as original examples are highly sought after. Inspections are welcome for interested buyers and can be arranged at its New Jersey location. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a C1 Corvette that is very original and is an excellent candidate for a full restoration. This is for the enthusiast who would like to pursue an NCRS Top Flight or Bloomington Gold award. I would welcome inspections of the vehicle for interested parties which could be arranged by appointment at the car's New Jersey location.”
Comments (1)
Photos of the frame at the kick-ups and rear cross bar at fuel tank a must. Thank you.