56 - 210 HP

[Loren L.]

Is there a plausible date for when the 210 HP single four motor became available in the Corvette? Thanks.

[Edward M.]

Re: 56 - 210 HP

Yes. I recall seeing a Chevrolet notice dated 1 April, 1956, indicating that the base motor engine was the 210 hp single four barrel ande that the two four engine was now an optional engine.

My guess is that no single four barrel engines were even possible prior to 1 April, 1956. The earliest "verified" single four barrel car that I am aware of is a July, 1956 car.

[Edward M.]

Re: 56 - 210 HP

Correction. The Chevrolet notice is dated 6 April, 1956. It can be seen in Noland Adams' book "Corvette American Legend 1956 Racing Success" (page 72).

Noland states that approximately 800 56 Corvettes had been build by April 6, 1956, when this announcement was made. He goes on to state that approximately the first 1850 56 Corvettes were ALL 2 x 4 cars, and all had power tops (page 73).

If the Birthday Book is accurate, E56S002850 (1850th Corvette) was produced about 6 August 1956.

[Jerry G.]

Re: 56 - 210 HP

The way I read the birthday book, it should be June 7 not August 6.

[Edward M.]

Re: 56 - 210 HP

Yep.