Chevrolet - 1962 - Corvette Shark XP-755

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Chevrolet - 1962 - Corvette Shark XP-755

Item Info

Item No: arcd01903
Title: Chevrolet - 1962 - Corvette Shark XP-755
Media Type: Photographic Prints
Source: Automobile Reference Collection
Notes:

 The XP-755 Corvette Shark by General Motors Styling

An experimental car, to evaluate new directions in automobile design, the Shark features a crisp, high peak line, an aluminized twin-bubble top, and a special shpercharged Corvette powerplant. 

XP-755: 102, 1''; 57.0''; 59.0'';92.2'';44.2'';45.9'';48.7'';71.2'';81.3''

Dimentions: Wheelbase; Front Tread;Rear Tread; Overall Length; Front Overhang; Rear Overhang; Overall Height; Overall Width; Hood Length

Production Corvette: 102.1''; 57.0''; 59.0''; 177.7''; 33.0''; 42.7''; 52.1''; 72.8''; 64.6''

The Corvette Shark has a bubble-shaped, clear-plastic roof, treated inside with vaporized aluminum to deflect sunlight. This type of roof was first developed and tested on the experimental XP-700 Chevrolet Corvette, designed under the personal supervision of Mr. William L. Mitchell, Vice-President in Charge of General Motors Styling. 

The design for the sleek Corvette Shark was inspired by a Mako shark, caught by Mr. Mitchell off the coast of Florida, and mounted on the wall of his studio at home. The fluid directional lines of the Mako shark were adapted to the appearance design of the Corvette Shark, which even utilizes a vari-colored paint scheme that changes from blue to white, as does the natural coloring of a real shark. 

Simulated gill splits in the front fenders house directional and cornering lights that throw a lateral beam for night time aid in turning. A special periscope rearview mirror is located overhead for unobstructed vision. In addition, the Corvette Shark features retractable headlights and retractable safety lights in the rear deck lid. The headlights are mounted above the grille aperture and lower to driving position when switched on. The rear deck safety lights pop up and flash automatically to signal turns or sudden stops. 

The Shark has an experimental Corvette engine and a visible exhaust- muffler system, denoting its sports car heritage. Other featuers are flip-out type door handles and full-contour Grand Prix- style (bucket) seats. 


Creation Year: 1962

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