One of a Kind Custom 1954 Corvette Was Built for Late GM Exec

Darwin Clark wanted to build a 1954 Corvette that looked like a Motorama show car, yet featured a modern powertrain.

These days, custom – or more specifically, restomod – Corvettes are somewhat a dime a dozen, though that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Many of the custom Corvettes we see these days are tasteful, high-quality builds, the kind that few would criticize, after all. That includes this beautiful 1954 Corvette featured in a recent video from Babelli Classics, which would be good enough to warrant the spotlight on its own accord, but throw in the fact that it was built especially for former GM executive Darwin Clark, and that makes it quite special.

Clark wanted to own a C1 that paid homage to the 1950’s Harley EarlMotorama show cars, albeit with a modern powertrain – a simple yet incredibly cool idea that makes us wonder – why don’t more people go that route? On the outside, that meant capturing all of the styling details those cars were famous for along with a few additional tweaks, including corner bumpers that are welded and metal-finished into one piece, a custom rear center bumper with a key lock, a license surround welded into one piece, and LED front turn signals.

The interior of this 1954 Corvette is its own work of art, featuring a custom fabricated aluminum console and armrest, custom seats that accommodate drivers up to 6′ 2″ tall, white face gauges, and a smaller, custom stitched steering wheel. The car sits on a brand new Paul Newman chassis with a C4-derived suspension setup, while disc brakes help slow it all down.

For power, the choice was easy – go with a modern crate V8 that offers the best of both worlds – performance and reliability. That came in the form of the now-legendary LS1, which wears a custom engine cover and intake, sends power to the wheels via a 4L60 gearbox, and breathes through a custom 2.5-inch exhaust.

Needless to say, this gorgeous machine turned out amazingly well, and the car went on to make an appearance at the National Corvette Museum’s 10th anniversary celebration. Sadly, however, Clark passed away back in 2016, which is why his wife is selling his prized 1954 Corvette today. The asking price isn’t low by any means – just shy of $300k – but for a masterfully done build with strong GM ties, that isn’t terribly surprising.

Photos:Babelli Classics

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