| The 1962 Corvette was the final year of C1, the model code being first introduced by Chevrolet in 1953 of its all-new fiberglass sport car. It was also the final year of the straight axle Corvette with a new 360-hp 327 small-block engine. With a low 3,070 lbs. (1,400 kilos) curb weight, a true sport car of which power steering, power brake and air conditioning were not available, it had a power to weight ratio of 8.6 lbs per horsepower, capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in less than 6 seconds and a quarter mile in 14.9 seconds. A 3-speed manual gearbox was standardized with a 4-speed manual being offered as optional. It was the first since 1955 that the Corvettes were offered in solid color instead of two-tone color. Side Cove chrome and ribbed chrome rocker panel were removed. The President of the United States, John F. Kennedy, proclaimed "America's Sports Car Day" in honor of the 1962 Corvette. Sales of the car increased to a point that a second shift at the plant was added shortly after the production had begun. A total of 14,531 units have been built. |
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