LS3-Powered 1961 Chevrolet Corvette Restomod 6-Speed

Description

In under a decade, the C1 Corvette evolved from a stylish newcomer into a serious performance machine. The 1953 model dazzled with its sleek, futuristic design, but the real turning point came in 1955 with the arrival of the revolutionary small-block V8 engine.

By 1956, the Corvette flexed its new muscle beneath a seductive redesigned body. A year later, the 283-cubic-inch engine achieved one horsepower per cubic inch. And in 1958, the model gained dual headlights and frame-mounted bumpers, adding both flair and function.

By 1961, the Corvette had bridged past and future. A cleaner front grille said C1, but newly recessed quad taillights hinted at the bold look of the upcoming C2 — a revolutionary design that would shape Corvette styling for years to come.

This stunning 1961 Corvette combines timeless styling with modern performance. It underwent a body-off restoration, and the original body now wears blue paint and re-chromed and polished brightwork, and rides on a custom frame wearing updated suspension and brake components. An LS3 V8 passes power through a six-speed manual trans to an upgraded rear end. And the new interior features custom seats for more legroom, air conditioning and heat, and power accessories for a comfortable ride.

Highlights 

• Restored ’61 Vette customized for modern performance and comfort 

• 6.2-liter Chevrolet E-ROD CARB-Legal LS3 V8 rated at 430 hp and 424 lb-ft of torque 

• GM engine controller and harness 

• T-56 Magnum six-speed manual transmission 

• Newman Car Creations custom frame 

• C4 Corvette suspension with Ridetech adjustable shocks and Newman rear control arms 

• Refinished in DuPont Blue with ceramic coating and blue interior 

• New blue Stayfast convertible top with rebuilt top frame 

• Vintage Air air conditioning and heater 

Features 

• 17-inch polished C5 wheels wearing 245/45R17 Falken tires 

• C5 Z06 front, C4 rear brakes with drilled and slotted rotors and a Wilwood master cylinder 

• Dana 36 rear differential with 3.73 gears 

• Power rack and pinion steering 

• Dual exhaust system 

• DeWitt radiator with Spal electric fan 

• Stainless steel gas tank 

• American Autowire body harness  

• 160-mph speedometer, 7,000-rpm tachometer, oil pressure, coolant temp, voltage, and fuel level gauges rebuilt by Redline Gauge Works 

• Custom bucket seats 

• Hurst shifter 

• Power windows 

• Upgraded Wonderbar radio with Bluetooth and MP3 playback  

• New stainless trim for cove and top of fenders 

Known Imperfections 

• This vehicle is presented as a finely customized example, and is said to be free of any major imperfections 

Included 

• Keys 

• Build receipts 

Ownership History 

The California seller of this 1961 Chevrolet Corvette has owned it since June 2015. 

The consignor states, “Body-off restoration with no expense spared, built to look as stock as possible. Only 1,083 miles on build, several Best of Show and Best in Class car show awards.”