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The following listing is from RM Auctions detailing the 1955 Chevrolet Corvette "Bubbletop" Roadster which was a $500 accessory of which, only 25 were built.
RM Auctions
Collector Cars of Fort Lauderdale
Friday, March 26, 2010 - Sunday, March 28, 2010
From the Estate of Mr. John O'Quinn
Estimate: $100,000-$150,000 US
AUCTION DATE:
To be auctioned on
Sunday, March 28, 2010
OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE
This 1955 Corvette sports the rarest and unique aftermarket accessory ever offered for the first-generation Corvettes of 1953 to 1955. Model Builders of Chicago produced the "Bubble Top" in 1954, with total production of just 25 units. This accessory was priced at $500, when the cost of a brand-new Corvette was approximately $3,000.
The project began in 1953, when Eugene Kettering, Chief Engineer at GM's Electra-Motive Division approached William Chaffee at Model Builders and cited the limited headroom and visibility of the original Corvette with the top raised. Top business executives and personalities of the era received the tops for their own Corvettes as well.
This example is powered by a 195 hp, 265 cu. in. V8 with a three-speed manual transmission and continues to benefit from a ground-up restoration. It includes virtually flawless paint, a correct cloth soft top, great chrome, a correct and as-new beige interior with perfect stitching noted on the seats and an AM radio. Underhood, the engine bay remains as new, with proper hoses, clamps and wiring throughout.
Contact Information:
RM Auctions, Inc.
t: 519-352-4575 f: 519-351-1337