Corvette Model Gallery

1955 Roadster

For 1955, the Corvette received the biggest change in its life, yet externally, it looked pretty much identical to the '54.  The big change was under the hood in the form of the new Chevy small block V8: The engine that was to become the most popular engine in the world.  The 265 cu in V8 produced 195 hp (about 40 more than the 6 cyl) and for the first time a manual 3 speed transmission was available.  A handful of cars were made with the 6 cylinder engine.  V8 powered cars are identified by a capital V in the "CheVrolet" script on both sides of the car. VIN numbers also start with V for the V8 cars.  The electrical system was changed to 12 volt for the V8 cars, but remained 6 volts for the 6 cyl cars.  Color options for 1955 were Polo white, Gypsy red,  Harvest gold, Pennant blue and Corvette Copper.  Despite the low production of only 700 cars, 1955 marked a turning point in the history of the car.

The model

Randy Bodkin built this V8 '55 from the AMT kit

If you would like to contact Randy on this model his e-mail address is: rcflyer@execulink.com

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Page updated  04/14/07