The First Generation - C1 (1953 to 1962)
General Motors Chevrolet division joined the sports car revolution by introducing the first generation of Corvette, the C1, late in the 1953 model year. This generation continued through 1962. However, the road was not an easy one. The project was nearly canceled, but Harley Earl and Chevrolet held strong and transformed the Corvette into a true world-class sports car.
This generation was commonly called the "solid-axle generation", referring to the fact that independent rear suspension did not debut till the C2 generation on the 1963 Sting Ray. The first Corvette was rushed into production with expectations largely unfulfilled. Reviews were mixed, and sales fell far short of expectations through the early years of the vehicle. Limited production of these vehicles make them a highly sought collectors item.
For more information on specific years of production click on the links either in the side menu or below:
