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In the second year of Corvette production only minor updates were made to make it more usable. Although these upgrades were modest, the 1953 version, with a limited production of 300, is still much more desirable.

One external difference that separated the 1954 model was its longer exhaust tips, meant to reverse the effects of exhaust sucking back into the car. This was only really cured in the 1955 when the exhaust was rerouted completely underneath the bodywork.

Where the 1953 model could only be ordered with a white body and red interior, 1954 opened up to new colors such as Pennant Blue and Sportsman Red but 80% were still ordered in Polo White. Black was the rarest of the official colors and was only used on four to six copies.

Inside, the '54 was slightly upgraded to include a single hood latch and relocated choke. The removable side curtains were also matched to the interior color.

Under the hood, an upgraded cam gave the 'Blue Flame' inline-6 an extra five horsepower up to 155 bhp. Furthermore a new rocker arm cover was fitted which on later cars was chromed.

Compared to the 300 '53 models, 3,640 1954 Corvettes were produced at a price of $2,774 USD. This model was replaced by the V8 model of 1955.

Story by Richard Owen