This 1961 Chevrolet Corvette is one of the very best designed Corvette’s over the model’s entire run. Great lines and accents have always made the model a real head turner. First created in 1953, the Corvette has been a symbol of freedom, youth, and speed.
1961 Corvette Styling
The 1961 Corvette was a part of Corvette’s second generation and was the high mark of that generation. The 1961 Corvette has a sleek aerodynamic appearance with a long, low-slung hood and a tapered, fastback rear. This 1961 model exuded an undeniable air of sophistication and performance. In addition, the 61 Corvette offered the buyer a powerful V-8 engine with terrific acceleration.
The 1961 model also came with some significant styling updates. Two of these are the distinctive split rear window and the legendary “ducktail” rear end. which not only enhanced the Corvette’s visual appeal but also improved its aerodynamic efficiency. With its captivating blend of style, power, and handling prowess, the 1961 Corvette solidified the model’s status as a true American sports car legend, inspiring generations of enthusiasts and leaving an indelible mark on automotive history.
The body of the Corvette is comprised of fiber glass reinforced plastic. The sculpted front, side and rear panels are covered with a Magic-Mirror acrylic lacquer finish. There was a choice of a manually operated rubberized fabric folding soft top or easily removable plastic hardtop. A three-unit front grille, dual headlights in front fenders, and four taillights.
The interior of 61 Corvette was just as appealing. Inside the well appointed cabin which gave off the feeling of being in an aircraft cockpit, the driver surrounded by a l blend of analog gauges, chrome accents, and top grade upholstery that was the essence of modern styling. The interior included a long padded armrest on each door., recessed safety reflectors in door sidewall panels, crank operated windows with power operated windows as an option.
1961 Corvette Specifications
The 1961 Corvette featured three engine options. Standard was the 283 cubic-inch small block V-8. This engine had been with Corvettes since the model’s inception in 1953. Also available was a 283 cubic inch V-8 with dual four-barrel carburetors.
The fuel-injected 283 V-8 was the most powerful engine option available in the 1961 Corvette. The fuel injected engine was something technologically new at this time and it put out a very impressive 315 HP.
The available engines for the 1961 Corvette offered a horsepower range from 230 to 315. This would be the last year of the 283 in Corvettes.
Featured is a three speed manual transmission as standard equipment, with the option for a Powerglide automatic.
Brakes for the 63 Corvette are duo-servo self adjusting hydraulic.
Suspension has multi-leaf springs in the rear and a combination of coil springs and control arms in the front. The 61 Corvette also has an advance suspension for it’s time with a stabilizer bar for improved road handling.
Dimensions include… Wheelbase, 102”. Overall length 177.2”. Overall height: Soft top up, 52.2”; top down 50.2”; hardtop, 51.5”. Height at door, 33.5”.
Total 1961 Corvette production came in at 10,939 vehicles.
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Over many decades, the 1961 Corvette model has established a strong following among collectors who appreciate its blend of style, power, and historical significance the model achieved as a classic American sports car.
Those 1961 Corvettes that have been preserved very well and even restored can command serious bids at auction. The Corvette is known worldwide as America’s sports car. The Corvette is the world’s longest-running, continuously produced passenger car.
Auction sales for excellent examples over the past several years have come in at six figure levels. These type examples have sold in a range of $85,000 to $150,000 plus.
(Article and photos copyright Auto Museum Online)