The Chevrolet Corvette SS Project XP-64 from 1957 will be auctioned by RM Sotheby’s in Miami next month. This unique build marks the first race car created exclusively for this purpose by General Motors.
The project was born from the visionary mind of Zora Arkus-Duntov, known as the “father of the Corvette.” An engineer and experienced driver — having participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans four times —, Arkus-Duntov was not satisfied with simply putting a more powerful engine into an existing model.
Instead, his team, working in a special and isolated area of the Chevrolet Engineering Center, completely reinvented the first-generation Corvette. The result was a vehicle with a lightweight tubular chassis, advanced drivetrain, and a magnesium body with exceptional aerodynamics.
SS Project XP-64. Foto: rmsothebys
This race car was one of the first Corvettes to adopt the iconic SS (Super Sport) moniker. Its body is longer and more minimalist than the standard model, devoid of any unnecessary elements. Painted in an attractive metallic blue and white, the vehicle displays the number 1 in a white circle on the fenders and hood. While the Corvette C1 is already considered one of the most beautiful American cars, its race version is even more impressive.
The engine under the extended hood is equally fascinating. The SS Project XP-64 is equipped with a unique 283 cubic inch V-8 engine, with a high-performance camshaft, aluminum cylinder heads, and Ramjet fuel injection. Paired with a four-speed manual transmission, the engine delivers an impressive 300 hp. Weighing just 1,850 pounds (about 840 kg), nearly a thousand pounds less than the original model, this car is a true rocket.
SS Project XP-64. Foto: rmsothebys
The SS Project XP-64 participated in the 12 Hours of Sebring in 1957, where it showed promising performance but had to retire due to mechanical issues. Soon after, the Automobile Manufacturers Association, of which GM was a member, decided to end support for factory racing, making the car a one-of-a-kind example. In the following decade, Arkus-Duntov donated the vehicle to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, where it has remained since.
Now, the Corvette SS Project XP-64 will be available to collectors at the RM Sotheby’s ModaMiami auction, which will take place on March 1 and 2 at the Biltmore Hotel in Miami. The auction house expects to raise between $5 million and $7 million with the sale of this unique piece of automotive history.
SS Project XP-64. Foto: rmsothebys
Source and images: rmsothebys. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
