Rolling Art: A 1956 Corvette That Defines American Perfection
By Tony Costa
Some automobiles are restored. Others are preserved. And then there are the rare few that transcend both categories to become rolling works
of automotive art. This extraordinary 1956 Chevrolet Corvette Roadster is one of those cars.
Finished in breathtaking Venetian Red with elegant Shoreline Beige coves over a beautifully restored red interior, this Corvette represents
one of the finest examples of America’s first sports car. It is a genuine numbers-matching, 100-point concours-quality automobile that has
been meticulously restored and maintained to a standard rarely seen today.
Bearing VIN E56S002193, this Corvette rolled off Chevrolet’s St. Louis assembly line on June 27, 1956. During that model year,
Chevrolet built only 3,467 Corvettes, and just 431 were finished in the striking Venetian Red and Shoreline Beige two-tone combination,
making this example an exceptionally desirable collector’s piece.
With only 40,000 original miles, this Corvette has lived a remarkably careful life. In 2005, it underwent a comprehensive,
body-off-frame restoration that spared no expense. Since completion, it has accumulated just 1,200 miles, remaining carefully preserved
while being exercised enough to keep every mechanical component in proper operating condition.
The restoration began with an exceptionally solid foundation—an all-original, no-hit fiberglass body mounted on a frame that has
never experienced rust.
The body was refinished using PPG urethane paint over fresh gel coat, producing an exceptionally deep,
mirror-like finish that perfectly complements the Corvette’s flowing Harley Earl-inspired styling. Panel gaps are precise, the chrome and stainless trim sparkle with jewel-like brilliance, and the entire finish is protected by a professional GTechniq Ceramic Coating, ensuring years of show-quality presentation.
Inside, the cabin captures the elegance of a mid-century American sports car while benefiting from thoughtful refinements.
Legendary Corvette restoration specialist Al Knoch expertly restored the seats and installed a new white convertible top,
fresh Daytona carpeting, and matching floor mats. A tasteful 17-inch matching steering wheel provides additional driver
comfort while making entry and exit noticeably easier without compromising the car’s authentic appearance.
Mechanically, the Corvette is every bit as impressive as its cosmetics.
Under the hood rests the original numbers-matching 265-cubic-inch Chevrolet V8, producing 210 horsepower through its factory
three-speed manual transmission and 3.70:1 rear axle. The engine compartment has been restored with the same meticulous
attention to detail as the rest of the vehicle, making it equally at home on the concours field or the open road.
Every critical system has been comprehensively renewed. The fuel system features a refurbished original carburetor, new fuel pump,
stainless-steel fuel lines, restored fuel tank, sending unit, and straps. A completely new wiring harness ensures dependable electrical performance,
while the original gauges have been professionally refurbished. Even the clock has been upgraded internally with modern quartz movement, providing dependable timekeeping while preserving its original appearance.
Stopping power comes courtesy of a completely rebuilt brake system, including a new master cylinder, wheel cylinders, and brake lines.
The Corvette rides on new Coker Wide Whitewall Radial Tires, providing improved drivability while faithfully maintaining its
period-correct appearance.
Factory equipment reflects the thoughtful options selected when this Corvette was originally ordered. According to its build sheet,
the car was equipped with:
· Base Corvette Convertible (Code 2934)
· Heater
· Signal-Seeking Wonderbar Radio
· Courtesy Lights
· Parking Brake Alarm
· Windshield Washers
· Whitewall Tires
· Two-Tone Paint
The result is a Corvette that offers the perfect balance of authenticity, drivability, and investment-grade collectibility.
Cars of this caliber rarely become available. Numbers-matching examples with documented originality, rare factory colors,
concours-quality restoration, and exceptional provenance represent the very top tier of first-generation Corvette collecting.
This is not merely a beautifully restored automobile—it is an important piece of Chevrolet history that embodies the optimism,
innovation, and style of the American automotive renaissance of the 1950s.
Whether displayed on the concours lawn, featured in a prestigious private collection, or enjoyed on scenic weekend drives,
this 1956 Corvette delivers an ownership experience reserved for only the finest collector automobiles.
For the discerning enthusiast seeking one of the most desirable C1 Corvettes available today, this spectacular
Venetian Red roadster deserves serious consideration.
Vehicle Highlights
· 1956 Chevrolet Corvette Roadster
· VIN: E56S002193
· Built June 27, 1956 – St. Louis, Missouri
· One of only 3,467 Corvettes produced for 1956
· One of only 431 finished in Venetian Red with Shoreline Beige coves
· Numbers-matching 265ci V8 producing 210 horsepower
· Factory 3-speed manual transmission
· 3.70 rear axle
· 40,000 original miles
· Comprehensive frame-off restoration completed in 2005
· Only 1,200 miles since restoration
· All-original no-hit fiberglass body
· Rust-free frame
· Concours-quality 100-point presentation
· Documented factory options
This gem is currently available for sale by a reputable collctor. Direct all inquiries to 239-234 4180 or email to corvetteweb magazine