1962 Chevrolet Corvette C1 Convertible Roadster

Following two years of weak sales and near-cancelation, Chevrolet's sports car's fortunes began to improve with the arrival of the small-block V-8 in 1955, and a mild restyle for 1956. Four variations of the 283-CID small-block V-8 were offered for 1958, and the interior was updated and the exterior redesigned with quad headlamps, simulated hood louvers and chrome rear-deck spears. The 1959 Corvette lost those spears and louvers, and 1960 was the last with single taillamps in rounded rear fenders.

The rear was redesigned for 1961 with a 'duck tail' over quad round taillamps, the latter a Corvette fixture through 2014. Then in 1962, the 283 CID (4.6 liter) small-block was enlarged to 327 cubic inches (5.4 liter), good for 250 horsepower, and an available fuel-injected version pumped out a rated 260 horsepower, making it the fastest C1 Corvette. The 1962 was also cleaner-looking, with no optional two-tone or bright trim around the side coves, and the last with a wraparound windshield, solid rear axle and convertible-only body style.

This black 1962, owned by GM executive vice president, Global Product Development Mark Reuss, is one of just 246 with both the fuel-injected engine and the 'big brake' option package, which includes a quick-steering adaptor, special shocks, finned brake drums with internal cooling fans, metallic linings and rear-brake air scoops.