1954 CHEVROLET CORVETTE ROADSTER
Designer: Harley Earl

Estimate: $180,000 - ­ $220,000

Chassis Number: E54A004584
Decoded: E=Corvette; 54=1954; S=St. Louis, MO assembly plant; 004584=3,584th 1954
Corvette scheduled for production at St. Louis
Engine: 235 cid OHV in­line 6­-cylinder
3 x 1­-barrel Carter carburetors / 150 bhp
2­-Speed Powerglide Automatic Transmission
Four Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes

● Just 3,640 1954 Model Corvettes Built
● Recognized by NCRS as a Survivor
● Previously in a Private Collection for 30 Years

The Model: With the Corvette now a full­-fledged member of the Chevrolet family, production was moved from Flint, Michigan to St. Louis, Missouri, where a section of the plant had been set up to handle the unique assembly process needed for this sporty roadster. Lessons had been learned on fiberglass molding and the 1954 models were much improved over the 1953’s. Not only was the construction of the body improved upon, a new solid lifter camshaft boosted the horsepower rating up to 155, and the race was on to officially make Corvette “America’s Sports Car”. There was a feel of excitement and little or no domestic competition in the field, as sales were up more than 12 times their 1953 run to 3,640 units. Many great and enduring cars and designs had come from the mind of Harley Earl, with the Corvette becoming his crowning glory.

The Car: According to our consignor, this car has been awarded Top Flight status by the NCRS and recognized as a survivor. In 1983, the original owner traded in this Corvette to a Chevrolet dealer from the Midwest. It was reportedly a very low­ mile car that was maintained by the dealership in their private collection for the next 30 years. Acquired in 2013, this car has been detailed and freshened while retaining its original paint. Under the hood looks practically new with the triple carburetion, and unique late 1954 production dual air filter housings. It is appointed with factory AM radio, clock and tachometer and is reported to run quite well. Also included are original side ­curtains with vinyl storage bags, original jack and tools plus what appears to be the car’s original owner’s manual. This 1954 Corvette presents a rare opportunity to buy, own and preserve an important part of Corvette history.