Corvette Model Gallery
C5-53 Commemorative Edition Corvette
A few years ago, Bill Miller; chief designer of Magna Steyr, and Steve Pasteiner, a former GM designer, took the challenge of working on an interesting idea: Taking the look of the original 1953 Corvette and update it to fit the technology of today's Corvette. Magna Steyr commissioned the design and construction of a prototype to be presented to GM with the hopes of been adopted as the 2003 model. GM liked the idea but eventually decided on the conservative route and use the existing C5 design. GM allowed Advanced Automotive Technologies to produce the vehicle, but it is not an officially endorsed GM product. AAT is producing the car, converting convertible and hardtop C5s in its Rochester Hills, Michigan assembly plant. All new body panels are installed without any structural modification, or any safety feature altered.
The model:
Since I couldn't finish this model on 2003, to
celebrate the 50th Anniversary, I decided to build it as a C5-54 Commemorative,
celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the '54 model year. The '54 Vette was
almost the same as the '53, with only a few details changed. However, one
important difference was the availability of other colors, not just Polo white
as in '53. I built this model as a mild custom version of the AAT car.
The paint is MCW Pennant Blue, a factory correct color available in '54 and '55
Aftermarket slotted and cross drilled brake rotors with Brembo calipers. Torque
Thrust II wheels.
Stock C5 interiors except for the color, dark tan
The exhaust is in the stock C5 location, at the bottom. The simulated
exhaust tips are actually the backup lights.
The windshield mounted rearview mirror is chrome for that retro
touch.
Corner bumpers were left out for a cleaner look.
The chassis before assembly. A few details were corrected after the picture was
taken.
If you would like to contact Ismael on this model his e-mail address is: tatocorvette@hotmail.com
Page updated 06/03/04