Resto-Mod '58 Corvette Roadster With LT1 350 Powerplant is Automotive Fine Art
We’ve seen a lot of resto-mod projects, but this one may be the finest one yet. Starting with one of the most timeless body styles ever, a 1958 Chevrolet Corvette Roadster, the restoration project involved giving it a new-generation Corvette LT1 powerplant and suspension on a custom frame. The result is a 300-hp classic featuring a pristine body, immaculate leather interior and a rad set of 18-inch Intro wheels that fit the classic design quite well.
The transformation began by un-bolting the car from its frame and having it sodium-blasted to remove all its factory defects, not to mention the wear-and-tear from over 50 years of existence. From there, the entire body was restored to a silky smooth finish prior to being bolted to a custom round tube frame. It then received a custom Spectrum Color-developed turquoise with traditional white coves giving it a classic-car appearance.
Then a custom frame was built to house the new powertrain, featuring a modern Corvette LT1 Generation II 350 motor with a cast-iron block and aluminum heads. The color-matched LT1 plastic engine cover is a subtle but fantastic touch to show off the engine.
On the inside, genuine leather adorns the cabin with a color-matched scheme. Replacing the age-old steering wheel is an aluminum counterpart from Grant while a Lokar transmission shifter takes center stage.
The classic is currently for sale at $119,900 which seems like a bargain given the three years of hard work put into restoring the project and its estimated cost of over $200,000.
GALLERY: World Class Corvette Roadster LT1 700R4 Pro Touring
[Source: RK Motors]
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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