Performance is a sports car’s pedigree
A true sports car must handle with precision and corner with positive control. It must withstand long periods at high rpms without a whimper. It calls for a superior suspension and an enviable power-to-weight ratio. The 1958 Corvette is all these things and more. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable tourer, a rally car, or a trial car, the Corvette delivers. Only when you grip its helm and press its throttle will you truly understand its prowess!
The Heart of the 1958 Corvette
The 1958 Corvette’s 283-cubic inch (4.6 liter) V8 engine is the heart of its legendary performance. Designed by engineers who built the industry’s first high-compression V8s, this mass-built engine showcases remarkable power for its size. With up to more than one horsepower for each cubic inch of piston displacement, the Corvette achieves an unprecedented goal. Its admirable power and torque characteristics are attributed to a compact block, an ultra-short piston stroke, and an advanced overhead valve layout. In 1958, buyers could choose from four great versions of the engine, ranging up to 290 horsepower.
Ramjet Fuel Injection- Unsurpassed Performance
An innovation ahead of its time, the 1958 Corvette introduced Ramjet Fuel Injection. This groundbreaking technology offers instantaneous throttle response, increased power, faster warm-ups, and improved overall fuel savings. By directly pressure-injecting fuel at each cylinder intake port, the Corvette eliminates the need for a carburetor. This feature was available as an optional upgrade with Powerglide, or 3-speed or 4-speed Synchro-Mesh transmission.
Specifications
Engine:
- Valve-in-head V8
- 283-cubic-inch displacement
- 3.88″ bore x 3.0″ stroke
- 9.5:1 compression ratio
- 230 horsepower with 4-barrel carburetor
- 245 horsepower with twin 4-barrel carburetion
- 250 horsepower with Ramjet Fuel Injection
- Maximum performance 290 horsepower engine features Ramjet Fuel Injection, 10.5:1 compression ratio, special camshaft, and high-speed valve system
Transmission:
- Special 3-speed close-ratio, Synchro-Mesh standard
- Close-ratio 4-speed Synchro-Mesh optional
- Powerglide automatic transmission available with different engine configurations
- Floor-mounted gear or range selector
Rear Axle: Semi-floating hypoid. Axle ratios dependent on transmission type.
Chassis:
- Box-girder, X-member reinforced frame
- Independent coil spring front suspension with stabilizer bar
- Outrigger-mounted semi-elliptic rear springs
- Direct double-acting shock absorbers
- Unit-balanced tubular propeller shaft and universal joints
- Full anti-friction steering gear and balanced linkage
- Hydraulic 11-inch self-energizing brakes, with fade-resistant linings
- Mechanical parking brake on rear wheels
- 16.4 gallon fuel tank
- Black 6.70 x 15 4-ply rating tubeless tires, white sidewall tires optional
- Chrome wheel covers with simulated knock-off hubs
Exterior:
- Glass-fiber reinforced plastic body-sculpted side panels
- Polished acrylic lacquer finish
- Front-hinged hood
- Three-unit front grille
- Dual headlights in front fenders
- Cowl ventilator
- Large luggage locker with spare wheel under floor
- Concealed well for folding top behind seats
- Chrome-bound windshield
- Functional, wraparound front and rear bumpers mounted to the frame
- Dual exhaust ports in rear bumpers
- Choice of manually operated fabric folding top or easily removable plastic hardtop
Interior:
- Foam rubber padded, all vinyl trimmed bucket seats, individually adjustable
- Safety belts
- Pushbutton door handles, key lock, inside release
- Long padded armrest on each door
- Crank-operated windows
- Vinyl covered instrument panel crown and doors
- Passenger assist bar in instrument panel cove
- Carpeted floor, metal door scuff panels, sills, and step plates
- Competition-type steering wheel
- Speedometer, tachometer, ammeter, fuel level, oil pressure, and coolant temperature gauges, starter-ignition switch, and light switch on instrument panel
- Directional signals, cigarette lighter, outside and inside rear-view mirrors, dual electric windshield wipers, electric clock
- Ashtray and glove compartment between seats
Optional:
- Engines, transmissions, axle, and white sidewall tires
- Power-operating mechanism and removable plastic hardtop with folding top
- Power windows
- Transistorized radio, heater, windshield washer
- Heavy-duty brakes and suspension package
- Special wheels
Dimensions:
- Wheelbase: 102″
- Length: 177.2″
- Width: 72.8″
- Height: Folding top – 51.1″ up, 49.2″ down; Hardtop – 51″
- Front Tread: 57″
- Rear Tread: 59″
FAQs
- What is the engine size of the 1958 Corvette?
- How much horsepower does the 1958 Corvette produce?
- What transmission options are available for the 1958 Corvette?
- What are the exterior dimensions of the 1958 Corvette?
- What are the color options for the 1958 Corvette?
Conclusion
The 1958 Corvette is a timeless classic that embodies the essence of a true sports car. With its powerful engine, advanced features, and stunning design, it continues to captivate car enthusiasts to this day. Whether you’re looking for performance on the road or a piece of automotive history, the 1958 Corvette delivers an unmatched driving experience.