1958 Chevrolet Corvette - Barris Custom

From the king of customs. It's a one of a kind Corvette special built by the legendary George Barris. Lee Sims of Accessories International commissioned George to build a unique custom car to create publicity for their company. George started with a brand new 1958 Corvette, the car was finished in 1959.

EXTERIOR: Influence for the nose was from Bill Mitchell's XP 700 show car. Resemblance stops there, other features include a hood scoop, tailfins and molded in Buick taillights. A factory hardtop was modified with a pair of fake vents and two creases running the length of the roof, typical of a Barris creation of that era. Barris also removed the factory twin chrome strips and the Corvette emblem from the truck. Front and rear bumpers and the side moldings around the coves. The car was restored about 25 years and George Barris was quoted as saying "Whoever restored the car looks like he did a nice job". Even today it looks great. The paint has a few minor blemishes but presents like a show car. Body fits great, the modifications held up with no issues. The wheels are vintage AAE (Anson Auto Eng) mag style with spinners on polyester whitewalls. The white convertible top is in very good shape, no tears.

INTERIOR: It looks great. The only modifications are the walnut steering wheel and Hurst shifter. Later a stereo was put in the factory hole. The seats, door panels, dash pad, carpet are in excellent shape. The instrument area is gloss black, sparkling chrome, nice clear lenses. There are seat belts.

ENGINE COMPARTMENT: The original 283 was upgraded with a 1964 Corvette 327-340 hp motor. Everything is very tidy and good looking. Dressed up with finned aluminum valve covers.

TRUNK COMPARTMENT: Clean black compartment. Has spare tire and the board that covers it.

UNDERSIDE: Underneath is good, solid original condition. The rear end was upgraded to a 12 bolt.

This car won at the Los Angeles Arena show back in the early 60s and then went on the show circuit. It was seen in several magazines. The goal to create a attention for Accessories International was accomplished.
This car has lived on the west coast for most of it's life. When it was restored in the 90s it hit the show circuit again attending several concourse events. This car does include a picture board with the magazine article blown up. Corvettes are collectable, Barris customs are collectable. Own a car from the creator of the Batmobile!

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