Amazing C1/C5 ZR1 Corvette Mashup Slays at SEMA 2018
We’re live at SEMA 2018, where we found this beautiful ’59 Corvette that rolls with the heart of a C5 ZR1.
Typically, we focus squarely on trucks here at Chevrolet Forum. But we certainly can’t resist the allure of a fine Corvette. Which is exactly what we stumbled across while bringing you all the best rides that SEMA 2018 has to offer. On the surface, this C1 Corvette built by Automotion Classics of Troy, New York looks like just another super clean restomod. But under the surface, it’s much, much more than that.
The beating heart of this beastly Corvette is nothing less than the legendary LT5 engine from the C5 ZR1. That means it packs a specially built, four-valves per-cylinder, dual-overhead cam aluminum motor. As incredible as that mill was to begin with, Automotion did ditch the original tuned port injection in favor of a Holley EFI. Not that we’re complaining about that.
Behind the mighty small block, you won’t find a manual transmission, however. Here they went with a modern 6-speed with paddle shifters instead. The whole thing rolls on a custom-fabricated square tube chassis fitted with late-model Corvette suspension bits. ADDCO supplied the sway bars and links, and coilovers sit at all four corners.
The body and interior of this stunning Corvette are equally impressive. On the outside, you’ll spot HID headlights with halos and flush-mounted rear LED taillights. The rear bumperettes sit flush with the body, and a frameless windshield makes this C1 a proper roadster.
The interior and trunk are all custom stitched leather and billet aluminum. Everything has been designed to provide a clean and simple appearance. Thus, even the subwoofers in the trunk are hidden for effect. And oh, what an effect.
This gorgeous Corvette is just one of the many amazing rides we’ve come across at SEMA 2018. So stay tuned for more, because we’re coming to you live from Las Vegas all week!
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