Conceived by famed General Motors design chief Harley Earl’s team as an American alternative to the sports cars arriving from Europe, the Corvette made its debut at New York’s glamorous Waldorf Astoria Hotel in January 1953, and production began just five months later. While a bold design statement at launch, the Corvette would soon be carefully and relentlessly groomed by legendary GM engineers including Ed Cole and Zora Arkus-Duntov into America’s only true sports car.

The 1957 Corvette presented here – with its Motorama-inspired styling and potent 283 cid V-8 powerplant – is a beautifully restored example finished in Onyx Black with silver coves, and highlighted by a contrasting red interior. Highly desirable options include twin-quad carburetors, three-speed manual gearbox, Posi-Traction rear-axle, two-tone paint, hardtop, and radio. Built in February 1957, this attractive Roadster made its way to noted Corvette enthusiast and restorer Roy Ester in May 2005, when an extensive photo-documented, body-off restoration ensued. Mr. Ester has restored numerous Corvettes and his work has been judged at the highest levels of competition. Purchased by the current owner in 2008, it has been fastidiously kept in a small California collection where it has been used sparingly and maintained as required. It is accompanied by a sales brochure, restoration photos and invoices, a jack, and factory hardtop. This beautifully presented Corvette with its lively V-8 power and sporting style is sure to bring its next fortunate owner many years of driving adventures.