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In a thrilling event that captivated car enthusiasts and collectors alike, the 1957 Chevrolet Corvette SS Project XP-64 was auctioned off for an astounding $7,705,000 at RM Sotheby’s sale in Coral Gables, Florida. This sale, held on February 27-28, 2023, not only set a record for Corvette sales but also highlighted the enduring legacy of one of the most significant Corvettes in automotive history.
A milestone in Corvette history
The Corvette SS Project XP-64 is celebrated as the first purpose-built race car from General Motors. It represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Corvette from a stylish roadster to a bona fide performance vehicle. The car was designed under the guidance of legendary figures like Zora Arkus-Duntov, the chief engineer of Corvette, and Harley Earl, the design chief at GM. Their vision was to create a racing version of the Corvette that could compete with the dominant European automakers of the time.
Innovative design and engineering
What sets the XP-64 apart is its groundbreaking design. Built on a lightweight chrome-moly tubular frame weighing just 180 pounds, the car featured magnesium bodywork that was both aerodynamic and visually striking. With a claimed dry weight of only 1,850 pounds, the XP-64 was nearly 1,000 pounds lighter than its production counterparts. Under the hood, it housed a 283-cubic-inch V-8 engine equipped with an experimental fuel-injection system, paving the way for future advancements in Corvette technology.
Racing legacy and impact
The XP-64 made its competitive debut at the 1957 12 Hours of Sebring, driven by renowned racers John Fitch and Piero Taruffi. Although the car faced mechanical issues and retired after just 23 laps, its legacy continued to influence the Corvette brand. Despite the cessation of factory-backed racing efforts by GM later that year, the XP-64’s design principles and innovations would shape the future of the Corvette, ensuring it remained a true sports car rather than evolving into a luxury vehicle.
As the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum looks to refine its collection, the auction of the Corvette SS Project XP-64 marks a significant chapter in automotive history. With its record-breaking sale, this iconic vehicle not only celebrates the spirit of racing but also the passion and enthusiasm that continues to drive car collectors and enthusiasts today.