1954 Chevrolet Corvettes
Still in an experimental marketing and branding phase, Chevy built 3,640 Corvettes for the 1954 model year at its St. Louis factory.
Very similar in appearance to the ‘53 model, and driven by the same simple powertrain (a camshaft change mid-run added 5 hp), ’54 Vettes were ordered in four color combinations: Polo White/red interior/beige top; Pennant Blue/beige/beige; Sportsman Red/red/beige and Black/red/beige. Reflecting some economy of scale with a 12-fold production increase, the base price was lowered to $2,774. Other features, optioned for all examples, included: directional signals; heater; AM radio; whitewall tires; parking brake alarm; courtesy lights and windshield washer. Although much more common than ‘53s, ‘54 Vettes still command six-figure prices when properly restored to NCRS or Bloomington Gold standards.
