Is This 1957 Corvette Restomod Worth $125,000?

Classic good looks, and a modern surprise under the hood make this a very desirable C1 Corvette.

Though, this particular C1 restomod may be a bit less desirable than the seller anticipated. Why do we say that? Because it has received a price reduction, from the princely sum of $140,000, down to the still princely sum of $125,000.

But, first, we need to back up. Let’s talk details.

Quoting the ad, we see that:

“It wraps a custom chassis, unique body modifications, a modern transmission and Chevrolet Performance V8 in a tasteful restoration that oozes the style and class which made Corvettes the stuff of legend.”

Let’s break that down. Originally, we thought this particular restomod might have employed the famed Art Morrison’s C1 chassis. However, the seller claims this car has a fully independent suspension, while the Morrison chassis uses a solid rear axle. So, this may indeed be a truly custom chassis, for better or worse. Four-wheel disc brakes also bring this C1 thoroughly into the 21st century.

Those unique body modfications, too, are a bit of a question mark. Here is a reference picture of another ’57, straight from the forums. The front clip is decidedly custom, with a paired back bumper, and a visibly distinct fender treatment. We initially thought the rear of the car had been widened, but on second glance, I think our eyes are just playing tricks on us. The overall aesthetic is very handsome, a clean rendition of the original design.

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The modern transmission of Chevrolet Performance V8 are easily decoded. We spy, through the admittedly, very interesting, vented engine cover, a 5.7L LS1 V8. The transmission is unspecified, though, being a manual on an engine-swapped car, we’re guessing it’s either a Tremec TKO 5-speed, or a T-56 6-speed.

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Additionally, this drop top also features modern R134a air-conditioning. We’re guessing it’s a Vintage Air unit, since they seem to be in vogue with restomodders.

Overall, it’s a gorgeous restomod, though, serious buyers will obviously want to see detailed documentation on the work that’s been done to the car. Originally found on a website called Papadent.com, which seems to be a dent repair specialist website, this C1 restomod is one of two gorgeous classic cars for sale. The other being a 1934 Alvin Van De Plas Open Tourer, which is listed at an eye watering $800,000. On Papadent, this gorgeous C1 is listed at $140,000, though, a Los Angeles county Craigslist ad has the same car listed at $125,000.

What do you think? The price drop makes us think the owner is open to negotiation, which could be good for its new owner. But is this restomod too far from the original to be worth the cash, or is it just right for the buying? Drop a comment and let us know what you think.

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