1954 Carrera Panamerica Corvette info requested...

[John Bowman]

Is there an online reference for the Corvette entred in the 1954 Carrera Panamerica? As a model builder, I want to build the most accurate model possible. Was it a '54? Did it still have the 2spd Power Glide? I know it had Kelse-Hayes wheels but were there any other modifications?

Cheers,
John

[Jack H.]

Re: 1954 Carrera Panamerica Corvette info requeste

The Corvette entered in the 1954 Carrera Panamerica was, in fact, a 1954 model entered by Bill von Esser, USA with race number 12. It threw a rod and DNF'd. No information is given in my reference, "Carrera Panamericana, the History of the Mexican Road Race 1950-1954" by Daryl E. Murphy*, as to the type of transmission used. However, all 1954 Corvettes had the "optional" Powerglide automatic transmission. My reference book unfortunately has no photos of the Corvette entry so I cannot comment on the Kelsey Hayes wire wheels. Perhaps some one will be able to offer additional information.
*Published by Motorbooks International, Osceola, WI 54020

[roy braatz]

Re: 1954 Carrera Panamerica Corvette info requeste

John-The Kelsey Hayes wire wheels were a dealer G.M option for Car, Truck and Corvette. They are vary rare indeed, I have them on my 55 Corvette also Dave fergee on his 53 super charged Corvette.If you need a pic. of them E-mail me and will send you .His and mine are the only ones I'v seen ever!
A Union Oil Co. add in 1954 also shows a women smiling driving a 54 Corvette having the wire wheels on her NEW Corvette.I also have that pic. if you wont.
NCRS wont recognize them because they were dealer added.