Big-Brake 1961 Chevrolet Corvette 283/315 Fuelie

Description

Over its 10-year run, the C1 Corvette transformed from a pretty poser to a competition contender. After the stylish but underpowered 1953 model debuted, the Corvette was given the groundbreaking small-block V8 in 1955, and a sexy new body in 1956. The 283’s power jumped to one horse per cube in 1957, and 1958 saw dual headlights and frame-mounted bumpers. Then in 1960, a privateer Corvette notched its first class win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, declaring to the world that this machine could go toe to toe with Europe’s best sports cars.

The 1961 Corvette boldly looked to the future while honoring its past. The high-revving 283 cu-in V8 made its fuel-injected, 315-horsepower curtain call between the fenders of a uniquely designed body—the front end was clearly C1 albeit with a cleaner grille; however, the reshaped rear wore new, recessed quad taillights and under-body exhaust tips. That posterior was an early look at the timeless C2’s styling, with elements that remain even on modern-day Vettes.

This beautiful example underwent a frame-off restoration and mechanical refresh, and wears Rochester fuel injection, and the rare RPO 687 ventilated heavy-duty brake system and wider wheels used in sports car racing.

Highlights 

• Restored 1961 Fuelie wearing the rare RPO 687 heavy-duty brake upgrade 

• CS-code 283 cu-in fuel-injected V8 with special high-lift camshaft rated at 315 hp 

• (354) #7017320 Rochester mechanical fuel injection for 315-hp engine 

• (276) wider 15x5.5-inch wheels with mandatory small hubcaps (only 337 built) 

• (685) Four-speed manual transmission 

• (AT) 4.11 rear end with (675) Positraction 

• Refinished in Roman Red with Black interior 

• (419) Auxiliary hardtop 

• (101) Heater and (102) Wonderbar radio 

• (687) Heavy duty brakes (only 233 built) included: 

  • Metallic brake linings (not included, and regular shoes are installed for street use) 

  • Finned brake drums with internal cooling fans 

  • Air scoops for front and rear brakes 

  • Special front and rear shocks 

  • Quick steering adapter 

• The chassis number (10867S105505) decodes as: 

  • 1 – 1961 

  •  08 – Corvette body 

  • 67 – Convertible 

  • S – St. Louis, MO assembly plant 

  • 105505 – Sequential production number 

Features 

• 1999 restoration included: 

  • Body removed from frame 

  • Frame sandblasted and repainted 

  • Suspension, brakes, and steering box rebuilt 

  • Bodywork done and body repainted 

  • 283 cu-in V8 rebuilt to factory specifications  

  • Differential rebuilt with correct 4.11 ratio 

  • Transmission inspected for proper operation 

Known Imperfections 

• Fuel gauge and clock don’t work 

• Paint chip on front edge of right front wheel well 

Included 

• Keys 

• Original owner’s manual 

• Spare tire, jack, and tools 

• Miscellaneous parts 

Ownership History

The consignor states that he purchased this 1961 Corvette Fuelie in 1999. Please see attached document for additional information.

Sales Tax Notice to Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia Bidders: Because this car is located in Florida, Hagerty Marketplace may be required to collect and remit Florida sales tax on your purchase, even if you plan to register it outside of Florida.  Unlike most other states, the states of Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia may not provide a full credit against sales taxes paid to Florida.  For additional information, please consult this publication and your own tax advisor regarding sales taxes applicable to cars located in Florida that are sold to residents of another state.