TRUSTED NATIONWIDE • CALL 01926 293530

REGISTER TO BID
REGISTER TO BID
Account Login

Please login to bid on an auction or manage your account.

Login Details
SIGN UP
Keep up to date
Keep up to date with all things Trade Classics, along with new cars.
Curated Auction

1959 Chevrolet Corvette C1

At a Glance

Smart Presentation | Imported in 2019 | Manual Gearbox | Recently Fitted Mohair Hood | Keen Reserve | Finance Available

  • Mileage4,342 on clock
  • Transmission3-speed Manual
  • Engine4.6-litre
  • LocationRedditch

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

CURATED AUCTION

Days
HRS
MIN
SEC
CURRENT BID£11,111
See Bidding
Register TO BID

AUCTION LIVE

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min 51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£11,111

See Bidding
Video #2

Introduction

Darren Rungasamy
Editor and Photographer

The original, and among one of the most desirable of Corvettes favoured amongst collectors.

The Corvette's inception was prompted by the post-war demand for a homegrown moderate-priced sports car, recognising that the returning GIs were importing British and Italian cars. General Motors unveiled a concept for the car in 1953 and, encouraged by the public reception, placed it into production. Using off-the-shelf mechanical components to keep costs down, the Corvette was novel in its use of a fibreglass body shell attached to the chassis by a “birdcage” of metal tubing.

Finished with its distinctive taillamps moulded into the rear wings, exposed four-headlamp and two-tone colour scheme, the 1958 C1 Corvette's bold design, chrome accents, and sporty lines made it a symbol of performance and luxury, cementing its status as America's first true sports car and becoming a timeless classic.

This 1959 roadster, finished in white with a contrasting red interior, is offered with a manual transmission. Coming to market from our vendor of two and a half years, it presents smartly and benefits from having been in the care of just two US car enthusiasts since its import to the UK in 2019.

The car is fitted with a single Edelbrock carburettor and is accompanied by its current V5, two keys, and the advantage of being MOT and road tax exempt.

This listing was written from information supplied by Darren after meeting Phil the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Video #2

Meet the owner

Easy to maintain, everybody loves to see the car when I’m out and about!

Phil acquired the vehicle in late 2023 to join an impressive collection of classic cars. He was drawn to its raw driving experience, specifically the combination of smooth, reliable power, an iconic soundtrack, and excellent parts availability. Having always admired the American ideal of freedom and power, he is now reluctantly parting with the car solely due to a loss of storage.

Phil will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Phil
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER
EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

Created during the jet-age, the visual flair, style and aesthetics symbolises a golden age in car design.

Wheels and Tyres

The red painted steel wheels present well, showing only minor signs of age, while the hubs remain in good condition.

The car is fitted with four-ply BF Goodrich Silvertown whitewall tyres (size 670-15), with the exception of the front offside, which features a Coker tyre. While the tyres lack visible date codes, they show no signs of sidewall cracking and display even tread wear.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

image

Bodywork

The exterior presents very well, featuring an undamaged gel coat. The body panels sit flush, exhibiting consistent and tidy shut lines.

The underside of the car presents very well, showing no significant signs of wear or age. The chassis rails are solid, and a close inspection of the wheel wells, suspension mounts, and floor pan revealed no issues. While the engine bay is coated with a protective inhibitor, it appears structurally sound.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

image

Paint

The white paintwork presents cleanly with an even consistency and a deep, glossy lustre. There are a few minor stress fractures on top of the nearside front wing, along with the occasional negligible blemish expected of a driven car. Overall, this vehicle is in show-worthy condition.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

image

Glass and Trim

The glass is in good shape; while the windscreen seals show mild wear, they remain entirely serviceable. All lights and lenses are in good condition.

The trim is correct for the 1959 model year, and the chrome is undamaged, exhibiting a light, attractive patina, with more noticeable ageing on the rear light lens bezels. However, this does not detract from the car's overall pleasing presentation. The bumpers fit flush to the body and are free of marks.

image
VIEW ALL
INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

The chrome details, contoured sculpturing and craftsmanship complement the exteriors stylish presences.

Seats and Carpets

Both seats are in excellent condition, completely free of wear or marks. The sale also includes a spare driver’s seat cover and foam.

Additionally, the carpets are clean, dry, and well-maintained.

image

Dashboard

The dashboard features what appears to be its original moulded vinyl dash pad, which presents well despite some minor cracking around the driver's side instrument binnacle. Mild wear is also visible on the centre console. The highly appealing rimmed instrument pods and toggle switches display beautifully; they carry some age-related patina, predominantly on the dial bezels, but this does not detract from the gorgeous, classic design. All gauges and switches are reported to be fully functional, with the sole exception of the tachometer.

image

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The steering wheel exhibits a few minor fractures on the spokes, but its condition is otherwise entirely consistent with the car’s well-presented interior. The gear lever remains in good shape.

image
VIEW ALL
'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO
Video #2

Mechanics

The low-stress small-block V8 runs smoothly with plenty of flexibility.

Engine and Gearbox

The engine fires up without hesitation, running smoothly and free of any vibrations, rattles, or knocking noises. All dashboard warning lights remain off, and the exhaust note is clean and free of excessive smoke. No fluid leaks were observed during our inspection.

The engine bay presents cleanly, featuring healthy hoses and ancillaries. While there are minor signs of age and paint loss on certain components, the powerplant appears to have been well-maintained.

Power is delivered through a three-speed manual gearbox that operates smoothly, with no reported issues regarding the clutch. While first gear lacks synchromesh, the car pulls away effortlessly from a standstill in both second and third gears.

image

Suspension and Brakes

The ride is free of squeaks and rattles, absorbing road imperfections well. While the suspension is quite firm, the car corners predictably and without any untoward noises.

Braking is entirely drama-free, pulling up straight with no vibration or noise from the drum brakes.

image

The Drive

This Corvette delivers a raw, old-school driving experience that demands physical engagement, a quality that is very much a part of its classic charm. That said, it rides smoothly and handles impressively well for a 65-year-old vehicle.

The V8 engine offers abundant torque and pulls strongly across the rev range with no hesitation or flat spots. On the road, the car accelerates with real eagerness through the gears, demonstrating great composure at cruising speeds.

The steering remains compliant, exhibiting only a small amount of age-related play, and the wheel is entirely free of mechanical vibration. No untoward noises were detected from the corners, and both the oil pressure and engine temperature remain consistently healthy.

image

Electrics and Other

The convertible top features a recently fitted mohair hood that is completely free of wear, paired with a rear screen in good condition. It raises and lowers effortlessly, forming a tight, secure seal against the elements.

image
VIEW ALL
Video #2

History and Paperwork

Imported into the UK in 2019, it comes with its V5 and passed its last MOT with no advisories.

Imported to the UK in 2019 via a Pennsylvania-based dealer, the Corvette was purchased from a private collector who reportedly invested heavily in the vehicle. It comes with a current V5C logbook, its MOT expired in September 2025, having passed its most recent inspection with no advisories roughly 400 miles ago. The car is accompanied by two keys, its final US title certificate, and a copy of its feature as The Sun’s ‘Car of the Week’ from August 2025.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Trade Classics Limited is an Introducer Appointed Representative (IAR) of AFS Compliance Ltd which is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under firm number 625035. Trade Classics Limited is a vehicle sales business with permission to introduce prospective finance clients to Revered Finance Limited who is also an AR of AFS Compliance Ltd and an independent asset finance brokerage not a lender. We are not independent financial advisors and are unable to provide you with independent financial advice. Trade Classics Limited and Revered Finance Limited will receive payment(s) or other benefit from the finance provider if you decide to enter into an agreement with them. We work with both discretionary and non-discretionary commission models. Commission payments are factored into the interest rate you pay.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
27-09-2024 MOT 3,859
VIEW ALL
Key Details
  • Finance Available? Yes - contact us
  • Model Chevrolet Corvette C1
  • Transmission 3-Speed Manual
  • Reg. Date 01-04-2019
  • CC 4638
  • Mileage 4,342 on clock
  • Colour White/Red
  • Interior Colour Red
  • Interior Trim Vinyl
  • Chassis # J59S104453
  • Engine # 3756519
  • Restored Yes undocumented
  • MOT 26-09-2025
  • MOT Exempt Yes
  • Road Tax Exempt Yes
  • HPi Clear Yes - all clear
  • Former Keepers 2
  • Tyre Brand BF Goodrich
  • Tyre Age Undated
  • # of Keys 2
  • LHD or RHD LHD
  • Visited Yes
  • Sale Type Private
  • Owned 2 years, 6 months
  • Vehicle Registration 376 XVF
  • Fuel Type Petrol
  • Body Type 2 door Convertible
  • Auction ID 3763
VIEW ALL
VIEW ALL
Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

All Videos



Vehicle Location

Redditch

Request A Delivery Calculation



    Auction Bidding

    Live Bidding
    Current Bid £11,111
    £
    REGISTER TO BID
    Countdown Timer
    0 Days
    0 HRS
    0 MIN
    0 SEC
    Auction Ends Thu 2nd Jul at 7.30pm
    Bidding History
    Previous Bids  1
    £11,111 bid by MuppetMan20.06.26 @ 07:34:32
    SEE MORE BIDS SEE MORE BIDS
    1217
    Ask Owner
    Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
    0 Comments
    MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a Corvette C1 like this is £240 via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
    GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

    *Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid Summer 2026.

    Delivery Calculator


    Vehicle Location

    Redditch

    Key Bidding Facts

    What is your reserve policy?

    A reserve is the minimum price a seller is willing to accept for their vehicle. We work closely with sellers to set realistic reserves that reflect current market values — we don’t take on vehicles with inflated or unrealistic expectations.

    If the reserve isn’t met when the auction ends, we’ll work with the highest bidder to try and agree a deal with the seller.

    Whether the reserve has been met may / may not be disclosed during the auction — just like a traditional auction house. Bidders usually find out if they’ve won only when the auction ends.

    As a guide:
    – If you’re able to place a second bid, the reserve hasn’t been met.
    – If you attempt to outbid yourself and the system blocks it, then the reserve has been met.

    Why shouldn’t I leave bidding to the last minute?

    Auto-Extending Bidding – we’ve developed auto-extending auctions that mimic traditional auction house bidding; it’s a key feature to make sure classic vehicles achieve their true worth. Bids placed in the last one minute automatically extend the auction by two further minutes. So there is no need to leave bidding to the last second.

    Security – we operate higher levels of security, so you may need to enter further authorisations against your stored card after you select ‘Place Bid’. All this takes time and may mean you miss the end of the auction by the time the authorisation passes. To guarantee your bid, we recommend at least five minutes are active on the auction when you place your bid.

    Network Connection – your device may lose connection and you’re not able to bid, or see the latest bidding history.

    Register Account

    Please create an account to bid on our auctions and stay up-to-date by receiving our weekly auction update.

    Complete Form