Summary

Custom Corvette convertible powered by an LS7 7.0-liter V8 engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. Seven-year build finished in 2018, with 945 test miles.

Details

This 1957 Corvette convertible received a 7-year build. The engine is an upgraded LS7 7.0-liter V8 dry sump incorporating RICKS Custom Tanks for both the oil and gas tanks. The LS7 is equipped with a custom cold-air intake and custom-fabricated exhaust headers, with a 3-inch stainless polished exhaust. Power is transmitted through a complete McLeod flywheel, dual disc clutch, pressure plate and blow-proof incorporating a TREMEC 6-speed manual transmission and a Dana 3.73 posi-traction rear end. The fully independent C4 front and rear suspension feature carbon-fiber transverse leaf springs. The 4-wheel disc brakes feature massive Baer 15-inch rotors with 6-piston calipers on all four wheels. The body has been extensively enhanced while keeping the overall heritage of the 1957 Corvette in mind. The rear quarter-fenders were increased by 3.5 inches per side, allowing for the maximum tire size while still maintaining the custom Ron Magnus soft-top. In keeping with the wider style, an intricate installation of a 1961 Corvette cove was incorporated. Flush-mounted C5 door handles, custom air vents fitted on the side just forward of the rear wheels, shaved bumpers, and parking lights and turn signals relocated to inside the grille, features that pay tribute to the old Corvette Gasser clean front ends. Finished to a deep sheen in PPG black with contrasting silver coves. The 61 chrome spears and the aggressive forward-raked stance is further highlighted by a custom one-off set of ultra-wide Asanti wheels mounted on low-profile radial tires. The quality extends to the interior, which consists of Italian leather and German carpet that reflects the same exterior color palette of black and silver, expertly installed by Ron Mangus. The door panels have chrome coves that reflect exactly the exterior 61 cove trim dimensions. This theme is carried over to the detailed trunk compartment. Creature comforts include air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, heated seats and a hidden Kicker stereo system that interfaces with both Apple and Samsung phones. Interior details reveal stock 1957 gauges upgraded by Classic Instruments to interface with the LS7, a Hurst shifter and a leather-covered vintage Corvette steering wheel. This custom build was completed in 2018 and has only 945 test miles since completion.