1955 Chevrolet Corvette Serial #8 Roadster

In opposition to its sports car moniker, the early Corvette was merely equipped with a 235-cubic-inch, 150-horsepower six-cylinder engine. Only 300 units were produced in 1953 and the 3,640 units in 1954 delivered dismal sales. America's future favorite sports car was almost tossed into the dustbin of history until GM Engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov was thrown into the mix. Later dubbed, "father of the Corvette," Zora campaigned for a V-8 under the hood as well as a manual transmission. The 1955 was introduced with the V-8 and the manual transmission would be added as an option mid-way through the production year. With the launch of the 265-cubic-inch OHV V-8 mated to a Carter four-barrel carburetor, the Corvette finally had the chops to truly compete in the sports car arena. GM tested the waters with the 1955, manufacturing only 700 units for the production year, which is the second lowest number Corvette has ever produced. The reception was overwhelming, and production immediately rose to 3,467 units in 1956; that number continued to rise, and the Corvette was catapulted into the stratosphere.

This 1955 Chevrolet Corvette VIN E55S001008, is just the 8th Corvette produced in 1955 as well as the 8th Corvette to ever be produced with an eight-cylinder engine. Offered from a significant Corvette collector that has owned countless early Vettes and pilot car examples, Serial #8 has been restored to a very high standard, thanks to marque experts. Photos document this example before the body-off-the-frame restoration was commissioned. Finished in Polo White over a red interior with a folding tan cloth top, its appearance is truly iconic.

As rare as this example is, most significant is the paperwork that accompanies it. While the Corvettes were being built on the assembly line, a "build card" followed them, showing the workers what needed to be done. Once completed, these cards were simply thrown away. Amazingly surviving the plant and the last 69 years, is its original assembly build card, documented by its VIN. Other notable paperwork includes an original envelope and letter from Chevrolet dated September 1st, 1955, addressing a missing owner's manual, as well as the original 1969 California certificate of ownership.

A true piece of American automotive engineering history, as just the 8th production Corvette to be blessed with an eight-cylinder engine, and offered from a noted Corvette collector, this example would be rightfully welcomed into any museum or private sporting collection.