The Muscle Car And Corvette Nationals (MCACN) held in Chicago is one of the most anticipated events for classic car enthusiasts. Every year, it showcases some of the rarest and most desirable vehicles in automotive history. Among the standout cars at MCACN 2024 was an impeccably restored 1958 Corvette, which earned the prestigious Triple Diamond Award.
Original Features and Specifications
The 1958 Corvette was originally purchased at Bakersfield Three Way Chevrolet in California. It was equipped with every available option, making it a highly desirable model. The features included:
- Fuel injection system
- Powerglide automatic transmission
- Power-operated folding soft top
- Auxiliary hardtop
- Power windows
- Whitewall tires
- Windshield washers
- Parking brake alarm
- Courtesy lights
- Heater
- Two-tone Charcoal paint
- AM radio
Engine Choices and Performance
The 1958 Corvette came with two fuel injection engine options:
- A high-performance 290-horsepower version
- A milder 250-horsepower version
Both engines were priced at $484.20, but over twice as many buyers opted for the higher horsepower variant (1,090 units vs. 504). The featured 1958 Corvette is one of the rare 504 fitted with the 250-horsepower engine, which was compatible with the Powerglide automatic transmission.
Ownership History and Restoration
The first owner of this Corvette sold it to an employee, Elvin Glen Hammonds, in 1968. At just 16 years old, Hammonds drove the car until 1974, when he decided to restore it.
Over the next 15 years, he dismantled the car, rebuilt the engine, transmission, and differential, and applied primer and two coats of lacquer paint in the original Charcoal color. However, before completing the restoration, he lost interest, leaving the project unfinished for over two decades.
In the early 2000s, Hammonds passed the car to his nephew, who transported it to North Carolina. Realizing the project was too challenging, he put it up for sale.
Final Restoration and MCACN 2024 Achievements
Brenda and Tommy Loftin, long-time car collectors, purchased the Corvette and completed its restoration. By the end of 2019, after a year of meticulous work, the car was show-ready.
The car earned several prestigious awards, including:
- NCRS Duntov Mark of Excellence
- Bloomington Gold Certificate
- Triple Diamond Award at MCACN 2024
The Triple Diamond Award is one of the highest honors for Corvette restorations, signifying excellence in originality, restoration, and judging.
Conclusion
This 1958 Corvette stands as a testament to the dedication of classic car restorers and the passion for preserving automotive history. With its Triple Diamond status, this rare and beautifully restored Corvette remains a shining star in the world of vintage automobiles.
