1961 Chevrolet Corvette C1 Convertible

It is believed that around 15 competition-oriented Corvettes were ordered new with the 315 horsepower PRO 582 fuel-injected 283 V-8 and the RPO 687 heavy-duty brake and suspension option. Richard Hibma purchased the car in 1980 and put the numbers-matching engine into storage. He then installed a 301 cubic-inch race engine, a Muncie four-speed and a fire-suppression system along with other changes. The car campaigned in 1987 and 1988. In 1992 retired GM and Corvette development engineer Bob Clift drove the Corvette at Sebring during the vintage race prior to the 12-hour race. It set the fastest lap time several times. The vintage-racing career continued until 1996 when it was retired after the Rolex Legends at Daytona event. In 1997, it was converted for street use, and it was disassembled, thoroughly checked over and reassembled. In 1999, the original 315 horsepower 283 V8 was reinstalled.

In 2011, the car was offered for sale the Monterey, CA auction presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $75,000 - $100,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for $57,750, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2011