1960 Chevrolet Corvette C1 Convertible

In 1960, the production of the Corvette finally reached and exceeded 10,000 cars. The base price had risen to $3,872. From 1960 through 1962, minor styling and performance enhancements were introduced to make the car more appealing to buyers.

Briggs Cunningham, a famous American racer and sportsman, entered three Corvettes into the 24-Hours of LeMans. One of the vehicles finished eighth place.

By 1960, the Chevrolet Corvette had clearly established itself as America's true sports car. Its racing successes continued to grow as did its popularity, with more cars being produced in 1960 than at any time in Corvette's seven-year history. Not coincidentally, Corvette's horsepower was continuing to grow as well. By 1960, the top horsepower rating for the optional 'RamJet' fuel-injected 283 CID small block V-8 had risen to 315 HP, translating to over 1.1 horsepower per cubic inch - a feat unrivaled at the time.

This 1960 Chevrolet Corvette Roadster was offered for sale at the 2007 RM Auctions held in Amelia Island, Florida, where it was estimated to sell between $75,000 - $100,000. The car is equipped with a 283 cubic-inch V8 engine with single four-barrel Holley carburetors and produces 230 horsepower. There is a four-speed manual gearbox and four-wheel drum brakes.

1960 was a big year for the Corvette. Briggs Cunningham entered three examples in the prestigious 24 Hours of LeMans, which marked the car's first attempt at competition in this race. One of the Corvettes finished in a very impressive 8th place finish overall.

There were 10,261 examples of the Corvette produced in 1960. For this year, the car was given a revised rear suspension with a new sway bar which helped improve the performance. A three-speed manual gearbox was standard, as was the 230 horsepower V8 engine.

This example shown has been recently re-painted and the chrome work has been refinished. The interior was reupholstered. It was ordered from the factory with a WonderBar radio and a black hard top. There are whitewall tires and the typical red and white, two-tone exterior.

At the auction, the car was sold, selling for $77,000.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2011