Here’s a rare film from 1957 showing the step-by-step construction of the Corvette SS prototype at the General Motors Technical Center in Warren, Michigan.
This old Chevrolet film is one of the meatiest PR clips we’ve ever discovered, full of facts and substance. The focus is on the engineering of the ’57 Corvette SS racing prototype, referred to exclusively as “Super Sport” here. The Corvette SS raced only once in its original form, at Sebring in 1957, but it had a lasting impact on Chevrolet’s performance and engineering programs. A few things to watch for in this fascinating short:
+ Detailed views of the intricate chrome-moly steel space frame
+ Extensive use of magnesium, for example the body panels, wheels, oil pan, and bell housing
+ Walk-on appearances by famed GM engineers including Zora Arkus-Duntov, Harry Barr, and Maurice “Rosey” Rosenberger
+ The huge and sophisticated, yet already obsolete drum brakes with their equally massive finned drums
+ The quick-change rear axle center section with inboard brakes and DeDion independent rear suspension
+ Glimpses of the GM Tech Center, then almost brand new.
…and much more. In fact, you’ll probably want to keep your eyes peeled for the entire 12 minutes. This video is all killer, no filler—enjoy.
When I first saw the picture and read the headline I said I am glad they didn’t build that one. Then while watching the film I was thinking if they had built it how would the following years have changed? I’m not a huge corvette marquee expert but If I had just seen the picture I would have thought someone had modded a 57.
Great film, great info.
Many old GM Styling friends are shown in this movie at the 7:50 mark. Clare MacKichan, Chief Designer of the Chevrolet Studio, Ed Donaldson, Chief Designer of Chevrolet Interiors, Bob McLean, head of GM Styling Research Studios and Joe Gilson of GM Styling Engineering. And of course Zora Duntof and Harry Barr are also featured, mostly Zora! Great days at GM Styling, later GM Design!
Wonder if they got the idea of the frame form the Maserati Tipo 61, also called the “Birdcage” produced from 1959-61
Chevrolet bought a new Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing and dismantled it. The frame is a VERY close copy of that design and Zora acknowledged that more than once.