(Non Curbside) Classic Outtake: 1957 Corvette Fuelie Racer
In today’s 1962 Corvette CC, I made reference to the racing successes the Corvette had, beginning in 1957. I have vivid memories of reading about Dr. Dick Thompson and his successes with his ’57 fuelie that had more than a hint of factory behind-the-scenes support (this was during GM’s racing ban years). A number of special options turned the Corvette into a credible competitor, such as the sintered metallic brake linings and heavy duty springs and shocks. A quick pit stop at one of my favorite “refueling stations” blog.hemmings turns up this exquisitely restored vintage racer, fully documented from that era.
This car raced continuously until 1965, on the east coast. It has every go-fast goody available from Chevrolet, including one of 43 Corvettes equipped with the “airbox fuelie” option and an airduct system to to feed cold air to the rear brakes. To further define its hallowed status, it’s one of six COPO Corvettes delivered as known racers, with factory traction bars, electric fuel pump and a competition exhaust. Price? Don’t ask.
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Hey Paul, this particular COPO Airbox Fuelie was one of only 6 delivered to know racing drivers of the time (Bob Mouat in this case). Of the 43 originally produced, 23 are known to still exist. Love it!!!!
You have run this in the hershey hill climb, correct? Now they call it "The Grand Ascent" so they can be more preppy about it.