C1 Corvette (53-62) – THE HISTORY OF BODY KITS & DRESS-UP PARTS

This is the first re-post of six-part series that looks back at the various custom modifications that could be installed by an owner, contracted to a shop, or purchased as turn-key vehicles. This re-post presents additional photos to those who were selected for print in VETTE VUES. At the end of the article are links to the rest of the series or Corvette Body Kits by generations.

In this series, VETTE VUES presents a photographic summary of the major trends in customization, as it has evolved through the various year groups.

The treatment for each year group follows a set format. Examples of kits (or parts) that were offered in that actual time period will be presented first, followed by various retro-themed kits or turn-key cars developed in later years. Miscellaneous items are included at the end of each year group.

NOTE: The first of the six-part series started in the May 2018 issue of Vette Vues Magazine with the C1 and C2 Corvette Body Kit History. The article is full of more photos and great Corvette history.

By: Wayne Ellwood

Photo Credits: Facebook, General Motors, Mike Terry, Mark Jenkins, John Neas, AAT, CRC, Keith Kaucher, Gas Grecco, Bob Radke

C1 (1953-62) PERIOD:

HIGHLIGHTS FOR CUSTOM CORVETTES

“Period” Custom Trends

• 1954 Motorama Corvettes
• Full customs by professional builders
• Wire wheels – one of the first dress-ups
• Removable hardtops
• Plexiglass “Bubbletops”
• XP-700 – a GM Concept Car
• SR2 and driver fairings
• XP-87 – Stingray Racer
• Fiberfab Centurion (replicates GM Concept car)

“Modern Retro” Variants

• 1953-Style Corvette by AAT
• 1953-style Nomad by AAT
• 1961-style Corvette by CRC

“Computer Design” Aids Custom Variants

• Designers, Modellers, and Artists

“LS2 motor with polished Magnuson blower and Tremec 6-speed transmission as well as custom chassis, C4 polished suspension, Aldan coil-overs, and custom 11″ 6-piston slotted and drilled Baer brakes make the car a great ride. Exterior House of Kolor Tangelo Orange, custom gray interior with the hood scoop on the underside of fastback top, heat and air, Flaming River tilt steering column, EVOD true knock-off wheels, PRC custom dual-fan polished radiator, Cadence stereo, modified exhaust, and custom exhaust tips. Body modifications by A1 Fiberglass and Gary in Aurora, NE. Designed and built by Street Rods Only, Macon, IL.” ~ Barrett-Jackson

Are you ready to work on your 1953-1962 C1 Corvette? If so, there is a wealth of components at your disposal, ranging from deck lids and fiberglass doors to bumpers, hoods, latches, mounts, supports, rear-end fiberglass, splash shields, and more. Whether you want to restore, modify, or customize your classic Corvette, you will find C1 body kits that can help you do it.

Vette Vues Magazine provides a perfect solution for obtaining those Corvette parts you require. The magazine features many advertisers who specialize in the parts you’re searching for. Furthermore, Corvette Parts for Sale Classified Ads provide an additional opportunity to acquire the necessary parts for your project. Frequently, previous owners of Corvettes will have leftover or removed parts available for purchase – including matching numbers parts. Subscribe Today and start getting the magazine each month right at your home, office or shop.

Corvette Body Kits by generations:

• C1 Corvette Body Kits
• C2 Corvette Body Kits
• C3 Corvette Body Kits
• C4 Corvette Body Kits
• C5 Corvette Body Kits
• C6 Corvette Body Kits
• C7 Corvette Body Kits

We are also starting a new series of looking back at the custom Corvettes at SEMA over the years. Our first year in the series in Corvettes at SEMA 2013 Overview and Photos.

Are you looking for someone to work on your Corvette? We have compiled a list of Corvette Custom and Restoration Shops. This page is not intended to endorse these companies. Many of them come from show boards at car shows and others are readers and social media followers submissions.

If you enjoyed this photo and article, you are sure to enjoy Vette Vues Magazine. Subscribe Today!

While you are here, check out our great selection of Corvette T-shirts, Corvette Hats / Caps for Sale, and assorted Corvette Totes, Coolers, and Bags for Sale, all offering Free United States Shipping.