The public had it's first look at a Chevrolet Corvette in January of 1953 at the General Motors 1953 Motorama. It was one of several concept cars, dream cars or better known at the time as a Motorama Experimental Model.
The Corvette concept had originally been planned as a 1954 model. However, from Motorama dream car to production took only six months.
The 1953 Corvette was such a big hit with the motoring public that it prompted the production of 300 Polo White cars starting in June of 1953.
Why was the 1953 Corvette so popular in its first year of production? It was the first all American sports car and and it was made of fiberglass. The public was so intrigued with the fiberglass concept that Chevrolet was persuaded to continue production. The 1953 Corvette charted new waters for Chevrolet regarding automotive styling and the eager American public wanted a two seater sports car.
1953 Chevrolet Corvette
The above 1953 Motorama image is of Ed Cole (behind wheel), Chevrolet's chief engineer and driving force behind the 1953 Corvette. Standing is Chevrolet General Manager Thomas Keating. The innovative new model was a
sensation at the 1953 GM Motorama.
1953 Chevy Corvette Two Seater
The first 300 1953 Corvettes were built by hand. All were painted Polo White and came with a jet black canvas soft top. Side windows were removable and were made of plastic with chrome trim. Dash was painted sportsman red and had a beautiful white instrument panel. Wheels were made of steel and painted red, with full size chrome hubcaps that had a simulated knock off hub.
1953 Chevy Corvette Interior and Dash
1953 Chevrolet Corvette Sidedraft Carburetors
The engine in the 1953 Corvette was a Blue Flame 150, 150 horsepower, high compression, six cylinder with 3 side draft carburetors.
All had dual exhaust and a Powerglide transmission with floor mounted selector lever.
