Slideshow: 1962 Classic Keeps It Classy with an LS3
Unlike most classic Corvette builds, this 1962 Corvette was built to put miles on!
1962 Corvette built to be driven!
Mick, a true Corvette enthusiast, bought his wife a sweet '62 Corvette with a 327ci V8 and a Powerglide transmission. The couple enjoyed the car for a long time until Mick realized that as they drove for longer distances, they sincerely missed the reliability and creature comforts found in modern cars. Mick knew that with the awesome aftermarket support for the C1 platform, his dreams could become a reality.
After discussing plans to freshen up the Corvette with his wife, Mick informed his wife that a simple cleanup of the interior and maybe a paint job would bring the car back to his standards. However, Mick had much more ambitious plans! In secret, Mick was planning an amazing pro-touring style build that would completely transform his wife's '61 Corvette. Mick managed to keep the depth of this build a secret during the 18 months it took to build this awesome machine. When his wife finally received the car, it was a huge surprise! Read on to find out what makes this C1 special!
>>Join the conversation about this 1962 Vette with an LS3 engine right here.
Modern powerplant with a punch!
The simple, reliable, and high-performance solution for any pro-touring build is an LS swap. This C1 Corvette uses a GM LS3 crate engine producing 430HP which is backed by a 4L70E overdrive transmission. A custom aluminum radiator and electric fans keep this modern powerplant cool. To top it all off, a Vintage Air A/C system was added to the car to make it the perfect cruiser. Exhaust gases exit the heads through a pair of custom headers and 2.5in Magnaflow mufflers.
Although the C1 chassis was state-of-the-art in its time, you can definitely feel its age now. To help bring the chassis up to modern standards, a complete Art-Morrison chassis and a tubular suspension were used. Larger brakes, a Ford 9-inch rear end, and a limited slip differential make this the C1 Corvette of your dreams.
>>Join the conversation about this 1962 Vette with an LS3 engine right here.
Classic and functional styling!
As promised, the Corvette received a top-of-the-line paint job with PPG White paint and all of the exterior chrome was refinished to bring the car back to its former glory. To help maintain the stock look with the larger aftermarket brakes, the build includes chrome Circle Racing 17x7 wheels with 225/50r17 tires.
>>Join the conversation about this 1962 Vette with an LS3 engine right here.
The perfect blend of modern and classic interior design!
The perfect interior is one that maintains a classic aesthetic while incorporating the modern creature comforts found in new cars. What immediately catches your eye is the red leather-wrapped dashboard and brand new carpet. Next, you will notice the custom center console which incorporates a Kenwood touchscreen head unit and controls for the Vintage Air A/C system. To round off the interior, the build includes a backup camera, cruise control, and a decreased radius style steering wheel.
>>Join the conversation about this 1962 Vette with an LS3 engine right here.
Go out and drive!
Most pro-touring builds end up being reserved for car shows or local car cruise nights. However, this Corvette has already racked up over 9000 miles making a true driver!
>>Join the conversation about this 1962 Vette with an LS3 engine right here.
For help with your maintenance and repair projects, please visit our how-to section in the forum.