Introducing Sensational New Fuel Injection
The 1957 Corvette was a game-changer in the world of American sports cars. While the styling remained largely unchanged, the performance saw a significant improvement. The introduction of the new Ramjet Fuel Injection marked a groundbreaking development in the automotive industry. This advanced constant flow system eliminated the carburetor and delivered fuel directly to the cylinders, resulting in instantaneous accelerator response, improved fuel economy, higher low-speed torque, and increased engine performance.
For The First Time In Automobile History – ONE H.P. For Every Cubic Inch
With the addition of Fuel Injection, the 283-h.p. senior engine in the Corvette line achieved a remarkable milestone – one horsepower for every cubic inch. All four Corvette engines were upgraded to 283 cubic inches of displacement. The lineup included the standard 220 h.p. V8, the 245 h.p. twin four-barrel V8, and the 250 h.p. V8 with Fuel Injection. The 1957 Corvette also came with a special 3-speed close-ratio transmission, providing a tailored driving experience for enthusiasts. Whether it was the power or the stylish looks, driving a Corvette in 1957 was an absolute pleasure.
Engine Specifications
The 1957 Corvette boasted a valve-in-head V8 engine with a 283-cubic-inch displacement. The engine had a 3.88″ bore and a 3.0″ stroke, with a compression ratio of 9.5 to 1. The 220 h.p. version featured a 4-barrel carburetor, while the 245 h.p. model came with Ramjet Fuel Injection. The engine had a high-lift camshaft, hydraulic valve lifters, and independent operating mechanisms for each valve. With a full dual exhaust system and a 12-volt electrical system, the 283 h.p. engine delivered maximum performance at 6200 r.p.m. and was available only with the close-ratio Synchro-Mesh transmission.
Chassis and Exterior Features
The 1957 Corvette featured a Hotchkiss drive system with a unit-balanced tubular propeller shaft and universal joints. The rear axle was semi-floating hypoid with a single unit banjo housing. The frame was an extra-rigid box girder frame reinforced with an “X” member. The suspension consisted of independent coil springs in the front and outrigger-mounted semi-elliptic rear springs. The steering gear was a full anti-friction steering gear with balanced steering linkage, providing precise control. The Corvette’s exterior showcased a glass-fiber reinforced plastic body with sculpted side panels and a high-quality polished lacquer finish. It came in a range of colors, including Polo White, Onyx Black, Aztec Copper, Cascade Green, Arctic Blue, Venetian Red, and Inca Silver.
Mechanical Dimensions
The 1957 Corvette had a wheelbase of 102.0 inches, with a track of 57.0 inches in the front and 59.0 inches in the rear. Its overall length was 168.0 inches, width 70.5 inches, and height 51.9 inches. The curb weight stood at 2849 lbs, with a weight distribution of 53% in the front and 47% in the rear. The fuel capacity was 6.4 gallons, providing ample driving range.
A Dramatic Advance In Experimental Sports Car Design
In 1957, Chevrolet introduced a special Corvette concept car that pushed the boundaries of sports car design. This experimental model served as the inspiration for future Corvette sports and racing models, incorporating many advanced features. The body structure featured a low-weight magnesium alloy skin over a truss-type tubular frame, providing exceptional rigidity and resistance to torsion and shock. The power plant was based on the production Chevrolet “Corvette V8” engine, but with Ramjet Fuel Injection, a special camshaft, and a low-weight valve system. The transmission was a special close-ratio 4-speed with full Synchro-Mesh in all forward gears, ensuring smooth shifting. The suspension, brakes, steering, and wheels were all specifically designed to deliver optimal performance.
FAQs
Q: How many 1957 Corvettes were produced?
A: A total of 6,339 1957 Corvettes were built, all in convertible body style.
Q: What was the significance of the Ramjet Fuel Injection?
A: The Ramjet Fuel Injection system introduced in the 1957 Corvette was a groundbreaking feature, delivering fuel directly to the cylinders and improving overall engine performance.
Q: What were the available color options for the 1957 Corvette?
A: The 1957 Corvette came in a range of colors, including Polo White, Onyx Black, Aztec Copper, Cascade Green, Arctic Blue, Venetian Red, and Inca Silver.
Conclusion
The 1957 Corvette was a remarkable vehicle that set new standards in American automotive history. With its sensational fuel injection system, milestone-hitting horsepower-to-displacement ratio, and advanced design features, it captured the hearts of car enthusiasts across the country. Today, the 1957 Corvette remains an iconic symbol of automotive excellence and serves as a testament to Chevrolet’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of performance and style.
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