Lot #818 - For 1955, the big news to come from Chevrolet was the availability of a V8 engine, a much needed option that added $135.00 to the Corvette's $2,934 price. While styling remained essentially unchanged from 1953, the 265cid V8 produced a respectable 195hp, fitted with a Rochester 4-barrel carburetor. Options available for this year included a parking brake alarm, signal-seeking AM radio, windshield washer and heater. Not surprising, the Corvettes sales figures improved somewhat, although they were far from reaching the expectations of Chevrolet's top brass. Of the 700 cars to leave the factory, the vast majority were fitted with the new V8. While industry observers predicted the Corvettes demise after 1955, it was the success of that year's Ford Thunderbird that convinced the management at Chevrolet to continue its development of the sporty convertible, a decision that would gradually earn it the nickname "America's Sports Car" and bring about multiple generations of sporty, race-winning and very stylish Corvettes. The Corvette offered here is one of the most widely publicized 1955 Corvettes in the country. Owned for the past 8 years by noted collector Paul Catinella, this car has received extensive restoration. During the 50th Anniversary of the 1955 model year, it was featured in every major Corvette magazine. Both "Corvette Fever" and "Enthusiast" did feature articles on the car. Winner of many Best in Show and concours awards along with Bloomington and NCRS Awards. It was showcased at Bloomington Gold and Corvettes at Carlisle in 2005 in their special displays. It was the only '55 at the Flint, Michigan, reunion of '53's in 2003. This Gypsy Red '55 is the best combination of concours quality and excellent drivability. The convertible top was done by noted specialist John Kennedy from Utah. Uniquely identified by its dual side view mirrors, this '55 can always be spotted, as shown in magazine photos and publicity shots. This is your once in a lifetime chance to own the best of 1955 in every way. It features a non-matching numbers 265/195hp overhead valve V8 engine, automatic transmission, coil springs, tube shocks and stabilizer front suspension, leaf springs, tube shocks, rear axle, 4-wheel hydraulic brakes and a 102" wheelbase.