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1954 Chevrolet Corvette

The 1954 Corvette? A total game-changer! America's first true sports car, it was a fiberglass beauty. Its iconic curves and small production numbers made it instantly legendary, shaping future generations of sports cars and solidifying Chevy's cool factor. A classic, through and through!

The Grandeur of the 1954 Chevrolet Corvette: An Icon of Style and Performance

You might say the 1954 Chevrolet Corvette is a bit of a legend, right? It's not just a car but a symbol of post-war prosperity, freedom, and American ingenuity. With its fiberglass body and a powerful 235 cubic inch inline-six engine, this beauty didn't just roll off the production line—it strutted. Let's cruise down memory lane and discover what makes this classic so intriguing, from its historical significance to its most famous owners.

Photo of a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette

1954 Chevrolet Corvette Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Chevrolet Corvette Worth?

Original MSRP :$3,250.00

Outstanding

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$164,000

Clean

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$92,700

Average

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$58,400*

Rough

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$32,900

1954 Chevrolet Corvette Specs

Body Maker: Fisher
No. Of Doors: 2
Length: 167 inches
Width: 72.2 inches
Height: 52.1 inches
Wheelbase: 102 inches
Weight: 2,705lbs
Type: Inline, Valve-in-head, Sidedraft single, Powerglide 2-speed automatic
Displacement: 235.5 cu. in.
Cylinders: 6
Bore And Stroke: 3 9/16 & 3 15/16 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 8.0 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: Not applicable
Horsepower Brake: 150@4200
Horsepower Rated: 30.4
Torque: 223@2400
Main Bearings: 4
Valve Lifters: Mechanical
Engine Number Location: On boss on right side of engine to rear of distributor.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Carter
Type:
8 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios:
2
Gear Ratios First:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Second:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Third:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
Not applicable
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.55 to 1
Front: Independent coil springs
Rear: Longitudinal leaf spring
Service Type: 4 wheel hydraulic drum
Service Front Size: 11 inches
Service Rear Size: 11 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 11 inches
Type: Premium
Tire Size: 6.7 x 15
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 17.25 Gallons
Oil: 5 Quarts
Rear Differential: 3.5 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:E54S001001 to E54S004640
Total Digits:10
Digits 1:Series
Digits 2-3:Model year
Digits 4:Assembly plant
Digits 5-10:Production number
Sportsman Red, Black, Pennant Blue, Polo White
Roadster: Opt

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History of the 1954 Chevrolet Corvette

In the very heart of the 1950s, when everything was about style and pushing the boundaries of conventional car design, the Corvette was born. Oh, it wasn't all sunshine and open roads right away. Initially introduced in 1953, the Corvette had a rough ride ahead, working hard to claim its title as "America's Sports Car." Those early-year models had to muscle through a slow start due to economic factors and some pretty fierce competition.

This car wasn't just a means of getting from A to B; it was about the thrill of the journey and the allure of cutting-edge technology. The Corvette represented an era where car ownership soared and new designs, along with groundbreaking automations like automatic transmissions, changed driving forever.

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Detailed Specifications

When the Corvette hit the scene, its specifications were considered revolutionary:

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    Fiberglass Body: Lightweight yet strong, offering enhanced performance.

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    Engine: 235 cubic inch inline-six, which was an upgrade, boosting performance.

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    Speed: Could reach around 108 mph — pretty quick for its day.

While today's cars might wow you with tech-laden dashboards and eco-friendly engines, the Corvette's charm lies in its blend of innovation and unbridled style that was cutting-edge during its time.

Famous Figures Who Own the 1954 Chevrolet Corvette

Ron Pratte

Now, who hasn't heard of Ron Pratte if you're in the classic car circles? A meticulous and passionate collector, Pratte doesn't just own cars; he curates pieces of history. His 1954 Corvette adds a layer of authenticity and prestige to his renowned collection.

Eugene Stenger

Eugene Stenger's tale is one for the books, folks. He swept up his 1954 Corvette when it was brand-new and has held onto it ever since, bagging him a Guinness World Record for the longest continuously owned 1954 model. It's a testament to the kind of timeless appeal these cars hold.

Rick Springfield

Rick Springfield, the melodious crooner from Down Under, shows off his classic car chops with a 1963 Split-Window Coupe. It's a testament to the Corvette's ability to captivate even those whose trade is more about guitar strings than engine purrs.

Paul McCartney

Thinking of Paul McCartney immediately brings to mind visions of iconic music and cultural shifts, but did you know he also counted a 1954 Corvette among his cherished possessions? It's a nod to how the Corvette crosses over into the echelons of music royalty.

Michael Jordan

The unparalleled basketball legend, Michael Jordan, adds another string to the Corvette's bow of illustrious owners. His choice to ride in a C4 Corvette keeps the brand firmly associated with prestige and top-tier status.

1954 Chevrolet Corvette Gallery

Photo of a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette

Fun Facts about the 1954 Chevrolet Corvette

Gather 'round for some tidbits you might not know:

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    The 1954 model wasn't the best-seller, but its scarcity today makes it a hot ticket at auctions.

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    It was part of the first wave of vehicles that used fiberglass extensively, leading to innovations that changed how cars were made.

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If you're thinking about entering the thrilling world of classic cars, whether as a buyer or seller, understanding the history and specifications of the vehicle is crucial. That's where tools like a and a come in handy. They offer insights into:

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Alright, that's a wrap on our glitzy tour of the 1954 Chevrolet Corvette. Whether you're hunting for your next ride, reminiscing about the glory days, or just here for the fun facts, the Corvette surely holds a little something for everyone.

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Explore Chevrolet Corvette from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

The '54 Corvette, the very first model year, is pretty easy to spot. Think of it like this: it's the original, the granddaddy of all Corvettes. Key features? Well, you'll notice the iconic, sporty design; a really sleek body with those beautiful curves. It's got that signature split windshield, which was later changed, but totally defines the '54 model. And you can't miss those fender skirts, which add to the overall retro vibe. Let's be honest, it's like a dream car, straight out of a movie. The little details matter too; the chrome bumpers and those classic-style wheels. It's a head-turner, no doubt about it.

Under the hood of that beauty? A 235 cubic inch inline-six engine. It wasn't the most powerful thing on the road, mind you; think of it as a solid, dependable engine, not exactly a racehorse. But hey, it got the job done! It wasn't blazing fast; it was pretty much a typical engine for its time. It generated, if I remember correctly, around 150 horsepower. Not bad, but don't expect to be blowing anyone away at stop lights. It had a three-speed manual transmission; that's old school, right?

Only 300 Corvettes rolled off the assembly line in 1954. That's a small number compared to what they make now, right? Makes them quite rare, and even more special to own. It's like finding a rare stamp—super valuable to collectors.

Oh boy, that's a tough one to answer precisely! The value of a '54 Corvette really depends on its condition, originality (how much of the car is its original parts), and its documented history. A perfectly restored model in pristine shape, well...let's just say it'll cost you a pretty penny. We're talking a whole lot of money; these things can fetch hundreds of thousands, even over a million dollars, depending on the car. It's a big investment! Always do your research and, if you're considering buying one, have a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic. You want to make sure you're not buying trouble.

Like any classic car, the '54 Corvette has its quirks. Things like the electrical system can be troublesome; these cars are old, after all! The brakes, being a 70 year-old car, might need some work, and the engine, while generally reliable, is not without its potential problems. Finding parts can be a challenge, too; you might have to search high and low for some of them. Basically, it's not a car for the faint of heart; you'll need some mechanical knowledge or a good mechanic on speed dial. Think of it as a rewarding challenge!

There are specialist shops and online retailers dedicated to classic car parts, specifically those for Corvettes. You'll probably find yourself visiting online forums and clubs for Corvette enthusiasts; they are super helpful. They're a great community, a real network for owners, and can be a tremendous help. Don't underestimate the power of word-of-mouth, either; those old-timers often know where to find the best parts.