CORVETTE 1958.28

PRESS RELEASE – July 2025

POGEAclassics:
Chevrolet Corvette C1 1958.28 Restomod – Character Meets Precision

With a head-turning restomod of the iconic Corvette C1, POGEAclassics once again underscores its authority in the premium segment of bespoke automotive restoration. This marks the third C1- based project by Pogea Racing, now consistently developed under the dedicated sub-brand POGEAclassics. Completed and delivered in celebration of the company's 28th anniversary, the build represents the maturity of an engineering network honed over decades. Every detail, from component selection to finish, is the result of proven expertise and countless hours of development—now distilled into precise execution and efficient project management. Two more builds based on GM’s LS3 Hot Cam and LT4 platforms are currently underway.

The donor vehicle—a seemingly restored Corvette from the U.S.—was handed over by the client in Kitzbühel. It soon became clear that the structure was far from sound. The body was a hybrid of a 1958 rear and a 1959 front. Doors would neither open nor close properly, and panel gaps were beyond correction. The central tub had been crudely severed and poorly fused. Yet the vehicle was mostly complete and served as a base for a full, ground-up reconstruction.

Power comes from a 6.3-liter GM LS3 V8 delivering 425 hp, adapted for European environmental standards. Both engine and GM 4L65E automatic transmission are governed by OEM control units, offering full OBD diagnostics like a modern vehicle. On the dyno, the C1 achieved a measured output of 433 hp. The powertrain is mounted on a reinforced, state-of-the-art tubular chassis developed in cooperation with SRIII Motorsports, New Lenox,IL and the Technical University of Munich. FEM analysis and extensive testing ensure uncompromising performance and safety. Maintenance is globally supported via GM-certified service centers.

The exhaust system, handcrafted at Pogea Racing using 1.4828 stainless steel, delivers an acoustic experience designed to retain ambiguity—keeping purists guessing whether it’s a vintage original or a modern build. Authenticity, not theatrics, was the guiding principle.

For suspension, POGEAclassics installed a fully adjustable QA1 coilover system. Braking duties are handled by Corvette C6 components up front and C5 calipers with integrated handbrake at the rear. A dual-circuit brake booster from the Corvette C4 adds extra stopping power. Future builds will feature an electronic parking brake. The setup is rounded out by pogeaFORGED CC58 forged wheels in 8.5x19 inches with staggered offsets, wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires (235/35 R19 all around).

All electronic systems are seamlessly integrated to ensure compatibility with modern diagnostic tools. POGEAclassics relies exclusively on OEM GM components to ensure serviceability and reliability worldwide.

The body was walnut-blasted and rebuilt to the latest technical standards. All visible parts— including hood, doors, convertible cover, and decklid—were manufactured in Germany. POGEAclassics retains full 3D data and tooling, allowing customers to choose between stock- width or subtly widened bodies. The latter allows for rear wheels up to 10 inches wide without compromising the classic lines.

Paint was applied according to a strict protocol using glasurit materials in Rosso Corsa (Ferrari) and Ibis White (Audi). All chrome trim is original GM, painstakingly refurbished and re-plated—no reproductions. The taillights are a POGEAclassics in-house development featuring hundreds of LEDs and dynamic orange sequential indicators, a detail never offered on OEM units of the era.

Inside, heritage meets sophistication. Seats from Top Flight Automotive were trimmed in red Lamborghini leather and white Rolls-Royce hides. Door cards, side panels, and trim were handcrafted in-house. The dash features Dakota Digital instruments tailored to the metric system, with color-coordinated night illumination. A JL Audio amplifier powers the sound system, controlled via a RetroSound head unit offering Bluetooth, USB, and CarPlay.

Every outdated mechanism—from wiper linkages to window actuators—has been brought up to modern standards. The soft top was sourced from Zip-Corvette. All materials are color-matched for a cohesive look and feel.

Fully TÜV-certified and road-legal, this C1 showcases POGEAclassics’ commitment to longevity and reliability. Every component has been tested, refined, and validated across thousands of kilometers.

With this 1958.28 Corvette, POGEAclassics proves how tradition and high-tech can co-exist in perfect balance. Additional projects—including alternative drivetrains—are already in development. Clients may bring their own donor cars or select from Pogea Racing’s in-house inventory.

KEY FACTS:

Chevrolet Corvette C1

1958 (Chassis: 1959 front, 1958 rear – fully reconstructed)

GM LS3 V8, 6.3 liters, Euro-spec, 433 hp dyno-tested

GM 4L65E automatic with OEM control

Tubular spaceframe, co-developed with SRIII and TU Munich,
Stainless steel 1.4828, subtly authentic sound

QA1 coilovers (height/dampening adjustable), C6/C5 braking, C4 booster
 pogeaFORGED CC58, 8.5x19 with staggered offsets

Michelin Pilot Sport 4S, 235/35 R19 all around

German-built, OEM chrome, walnut-blasted, glasurit paint (Rosso Corsa/Ibis White)
 Lamborghini/Rolls-Royce leather, Dakota Digital, RetroSound, JL Audio

POGEA LED taillights with orange sequential turn signals

Fully certified, OBD compliant, GM serviceable

Built to order, with or without donor