Clean 1961 C1 Corvette Restomod with LS6 Power

Continuing the Trend

The restomod treatment is certainly nothing new, as it's been around now for decades. But unlike many other trends that come and go, it's stuck around and remained quite popular. And when you see nicely executed restomod Corvettes like this gorgeous C1 we spotted at Mecum Auctions, it's easy to see why.  

Photos: Mecum Auctions

Modern Bits

The exterior of this classic Corvette remains mostly original, yet pretty much everything underneath has been modernized. And that's precisely how we like our restomods. The C1 rides on a new SRIII tube chassis, with a C4 independent front and rear suspension and Aldan adjustable coilovers to smooth things out on the open road. 

Photos: Mecum Auctions

>>Join the conversation about this restomod LS6 C1 right here in the LS1 Tech Forum!

Familiar Drivetrain

Under the hood, you'll find the much-beloved LS6 powerplant, which has been treated to a "custom tune," according to the auction listing. The modern small block is backed up by a Tremec 5-speed manual transmission and Dana 44 rear differential for extra strength. And of course, all of that has been detailed to the max.

Photos: Mecum Auctions

>>Join the conversation about this restomod LS6 C1 right here in the LS1 Tech Forum!

Looking Good

The LS looks great thanks to a stainless intake and custom engine cover and breathes easily through a tig-welded exhaust with ceramic coating. Later model Corvette disc brakes with 13 inch drilled and slotted rotors help slow it all down, and are supported by a Hydroboost setup and stainless lines.

Photos: Mecum Auctions

>>Join the conversation about this restomod LS6 C1 right here in the LS1 Tech Forum!

Make It Special

The interior of this new/old Corvette looks mostly original as well, but it's all stitched up in custom leather, along with the trunk. Lots of tiny details went into making this cabin extra special, including Hushmat cockpit insulation, a vintage Wonderbar radio with iPod integration, and a custom shifter bezel and insert.

Photos: Mecum Auctions

>>Join the conversation about this restomod LS6 C1 right here in the LS1 Tech Forum!

Fine Details

Other fine details include air conditioning with color-matched controls, power windows and electric wipers, a custom calibrated gauge cluster, and stainless fasteners everywhere. The classy 'Vette rolls on Boyd Coddington Classic Series wheels, which are wrapped in BF Goodrich G-Force tires. All of which are nice compliments to the bright Roman Red paint.

Photos: Mecum Auctions

>>Join the conversation about this restomod LS6 C1 right here in the LS1 Tech Forum!

Great Combo

Put all of these components together, and you've got one seriously timeless restomod Corvette. Unlike some builds that go over the top, this car will never go out of style. And we're sure it's much more fun and comfortable to drive than the car was originally, too.

Photos: Mecum Auctions

>>Join the conversation about this restomod LS6 C1 right here in the LS1 Tech Forum!

For help with service of your car, check out the how to section of LS1Tech.com