Vehicle Description
Chassis No. J58S104080
Engine No. F102CS
The prevailing design aesthetics of the late 1950s American cars,
namely the near limitless use of chrome trim, saw the Corvette
receive its first major styling update in 1958. The single
headlight design was dropped in favor of exposed dual headlights on
both corners, positioned above more prominent chrome-lined grilles.
New chrome strips ran the length of the front end, while a
distinctive louvered "washboard hood" and rear bumperettes were
unique to the 1958 model year. Engine options remained the same,
with the range-topping 283 cu-in V8 producing an impressive 290
horsepower thanks to the expensive optional Rochester Ramjet fuel
injection. So equipped, the relatively lithe 1958 Corvette could
sprint to 60 miles per hour in a tick under seven seconds -
exhilarating at the time, and healthy even by modern standards.
Inside, a completely redesigned interior featured factory-installed
seatbelts and a dramatic dashboard housing a new 8,000 rpm
tachometer on 270 and 290 horsepower models. Today, the "Fuelie" as
its commonly known, is highly coveted as the fastest and finest
American sports car of its time.
This top-of-the-line 1958 Chevrolet Corvette Fuelie Roadster in
arguably the most desirably and sought-after configuration features
the powerful 290 horsepower fuel-injected V8 engine, mated to a
sporty four-speed manual transmission. A comprehensive body-off
restoration was carried out by Hill's Classic Car Restoration of
Racine, Ohio in 2000, which tended to both cosmetic and mechanical
aspects of the desirable Corvette. Correspondence on file from
Hill's Restoration speaks to a solid and sound car before
restoration, in the same desirable configuration as it is today.
Upon close inspection today, it is evident that the restoration was
carried out extremely well, with authenticity in mind. In 2002, the
car was presented at an NCRS event in Orlando, Florida, and
received a prominent Third Flight award after judging, the official
document of which is on file.
Beautifully finished in period-correct Signet Red with neatly
accenting White side coves, the stunning red interior matches the
exquisite detail of the exterior. A white convertible soft top is
situated in the clean top compartment behind the seats, while an
equally well-restored factory hardtop is offered with the car,
color matched to the Signet Red body color. Expertly restored and
of the most desirable configuration, this striking Corvette offers
sports car driving characteristics in classic American style.
