Driving the customized C1 Corvette is an LS V8 from Lingenfelter with 652 hp
Taking on the challenge of tinkering with an automotive legend like the C1-generation Chevrolet Corvette is no small feat. However, this custom model, crafted and transformed by Kindig It Designs, demonstrates that with the right tweaks, you can turn a classic Corvette into something even more extraordinary.
Kindig It Designs, led by Dave Kindig who presents Motor Trend�s Bitchin� Rides, first unveiled its special CF1 Roadster at the SEMA Show back in November 2021. This particular example is the fifth one built by the shop and took home the John D�Agostino Award of Excellence at SEMA last year. While some traditionalists may hate it, it�s impossible not to respect the hard work that has gone into it.
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To create the car, work started with the fitment of a new chassis from Roadster Shop that supports new floor pans positioned lower than an original C1 Corvette. Interestingly, Dave Kindig and his team have retained the car�s original wheelbase but improved interior space by 4 inches, ensuring that even taller drivers can enjoy it.
Under the hood, a potent new engine takes center stage � specifically, an LS V8 from Lingenfelter, tuned to unleash 652 horsepower. Paired with an automatic transmission sending power to the rear wheels, this setup is a far cry from the original C1�s modest 3.9-liter straight-six rated at around 150 horsepower. While the exact weight of the CF1 Roadster remains a mystery, there�s little doubt that it now boasts performance leaps and bounds beyond its former self.
Adorning the exterior are lightweight carbon fiber panels painted in Cha-Ching Silver while the interior is dominated by Auburn Red leather that looks superb. Among the key interior features include the bucket seats, flat-bottomed steering wheel, an updated dashboard, and new gauges.
The car will be auctioned off by Mecum at its Kissimmee sales event starting on January 4 and is expected to sell for between $500,000 and $600,000.
Photos Mecum
