C1 Corvette Restomod Utilizes Parts From Multiple Generations

This fine C1 Corvette restomod is a true labor of love that uses the best parts from a number of sources.

If there’s one common theme among all of the Corvette restomods we come across on a daily basis, it’s the fact that most utilize components from newer Corvettes. This makes perfect sense, of course, as modern Corvette parts are a huge upgrade for earlier cars, whether we’re talking about suspension, brakes, or the car’s drivetrain. Thus, it’s no surprise that when Bob and Carrie Frampton set out to build this C1 Corvette restomod recently featured at Chevy Hardcore, they gathered parts from a few generations to make it even better.

Once the Framptons decided they wanted to build a C1 Corvette restomod, it took quite a while to find the perfect candidate for such a build. They stumbled across a first-gen model for sale at the 1998 Corvettes at Carlisle show, but it wasn’t in the best shape by any means. “The car was in very poor condition – it was drivable, but barely,” Bob said. “It had a small block and a four-speed in it, but no parts of the drivetrain were original to the car. The car was painted white, and unbeknownst at the time, that coating of paint hid a lot of body damage.”

After driving the car as-is for a while, Bob realized that it needed a ton of work, and in 2002, he pulled the proverbial trigger on a total rebuild. The body was in pretty terrible condition, but Bob did all the work himself and then farmed out the 2006 Corvette Monterey Red paint job to a professional shop. Then, he started adding modern parts including an independent rear suspension from a C4, a Jim Meyer coilover setup, power rack-and-pinion steering, and power-assisted disc brakes.

Al Knoch provided the new threads for the Corvette’s cabin, which is quite unique with a contrasting Horizon Blue leather. Power comes from a brand new LS3 crate motor that cranks out a reliable 430 horsepower and is mated to a Tremec five-speed manual transmission.

It took a ton of time and effort, but this C1 restomod is a truly stunning machine, and needless to say, the Framptons are quite happy with the result. “The car came out beautiful, and my wife and I enjoy driving it every chance we get,” Bob said.

Photos:Chevy Hardcore

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