1953 Corvette V8 EX-122
This car started off life on 30 June 1953 as 1953 Corvette No 2. Originally Polo White, it was taken from the assembly line
and assigned to Chevrolets proving ground. Under testing, the car went through several changes and updates to correct
early production problems and bring the car up to what were considered satisfactory production standards.
In October 1953 Chevrolet Work Order No. 19001-2 directed engineering "To install a V-8 engine in a 1953 Corvette for
mock-up purposes in order to facilitate determining design problems encountered in a 1955 production Corvette."
This was the corvette that was chosen and a non-running experimental engine replaced the original six cylinder engine.
The mock-up installation was completed and hand written notes were made regarding modifications to the body which
would be necessary for the 1955 production car.
Towards the end of 1953 the car was completely rebuilt to accommodate a developmental running V-8 engine for 1955
production testing. The car also received a new Powerglide transmission, 3:27:1 rear end, 12 volt electrical system and a
new cooling system amongst a host of changes to update the specifications. During the rest of 1954 and the early 1955
the car was used for evaluation and wind tunnel testing. Around May of 1955 the car was again rebuilt and was then used
for ride development. In August, a new V-8 engine and Powerglide was installed and the car was used for durability
testing at the proving ground.
Late in 1955 the car was completely torn down and checked for wear and stress and reports made for production revision.
The car was again totally rebuilt and repainted red. It is believed that it was at this time that the EX-122 designation was
assigned. Once rebuilt, EX-122 was used as a company courtesy vehicle before being put up for sale and being sold on
11 April 1956 to a GM executive. The car was later sold again for $1,000 with 30,000 miles on it. The car was totally
restored starting in 1973 and took 5 years. After some considerable discussion and research revealed its true history, it
was decided to restore the car back to its April 1956 configuration. A unique vehicle, the oldest corvette in existence and
the first V-8 Corvette.
