C1 (1953-1962)

1953 May - The first Corvette advertisement.
June - Corvette production begins in Flint, Michigan  (300 built).
July - Duntov assigned to the Corvette.
December - Production moved to St Louis.
1954 September - V8 engine option debuts on the Corvette.
December - Produced 3265 with 1076 unsold.
1955 The 3-speed manual transmission added.
 

1956 Corvette racing (Daytona, Sebring, SCCA) gets into high gear and horse power increases.
1957 More horsepower added, and more racing. The 4-speed manual transmission and Fuel Injection added. Last year for Polo White.

1958 The Corvette finally has profitable year.
1958 - 1962 Racing continues, high speed runs, and more horse power added. Minor body changes and options occured.
1960 The Corvette was in the TV series- Route 66.
1961 Last "wide whitewall" tires.
1962 Last solid axle vette produced.