Currently offered for sale on Bring a Trailer, this extensively reimagined 1963 Chevrolet Corvette convertible—known as “Solar Flare”—represents a meticulous fusion of classic American styling and modern high-performance engineering. Acquired by the founder of Muscle Cars By Bob in Ohio in 2019, the iconic C2 Corvette underwent a comprehensive multi-year transformation that elevated it from a vintage sports car into a SEMA-caliber custom machine recognized across the automotive industry.
The project centered on a complete redesign of the Corvette’s fiberglass bodywork. The original exterior was extensively reshaped with a hand-fabricated hood and trunk lid, custom side vents, and redesigned front and rear fascias. The wheel arches were digitally modeled, 3D-printed, and subsequently molded in fiberglass before being integrated into the body by Fiber Forged Composites in Indiana.
Complementing the aggressive new profile is a bespoke carbon-fiber roof featuring a removable targa-style center section, along with carbon-fiber aerodynamic and trim components including a front splitter, rear spoiler, bumperettes, door handles, and exterior accents. Finished in a vibrant yellow paint scheme, the Corvette also benefits from paint-protection film and a host of modern details such as recessed LED lighting, billet aluminum trim elements, Ringbrothers carbon-fiber mirrors, and custom fuel-filler hardware.
Beneath the dramatic bodywork lies a heavily reinforced chassis equipped with fully welded frame seams and a modern suspension package sourced from Detroit Speed. The setup incorporates a SpeedRay front suspension, DecaLink rear system, sway bars, and Viking double-adjustable coilovers paired with Hyperco springs. Forgeline 18-inch wheels wrapped in Nankang CR-1 performance tires provide grip, while a Bosch ABS M5 Clubsport system works in conjunction with Baer 14-inch slotted disc brakes and a Tilton adjustable-bias master cylinder to deliver contemporary stopping power.
The interior blends race-inspired functionality with premium craftsmanship. Trick Labs fabricated a completely custom dashboard and door panels, while Recaro seats were retrimmed in black leather with gray suede inserts and yellow contrast stitching. Additional features include a mandrel-bent roll bar, Safecraft fire-suppression system, Schroth harnesses, Bowler shifter, Vintage Air climate control, a Velex multimedia receiver, and a Holley 12.3-inch digital display. An NRG steering wheel mounted to an Ididit tilt column completes the driver-focused cockpit.
Power comes from a naturally aspirated LS-based 427-cubic-inch V8 assembled by Scoggin-Dickey Parts Center. The engine features an RHS aluminum block, Callies forged rotating assembly, Wiseco pistons, custom hydraulic roller camshaft, PRC LS7 cylinder heads, dry-sump lubrication, and MSD Atomic electronic fuel injection managed by a Holley Dominator ECU. Exhaust gases exit through ceramic-coated headers feeding Hooker side pipes.
Prior to installation, the engine reportedly produced 660 horsepower and 596 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered through a Tremec T56 Magnum six-speed manual transmission upgraded by Bowler Performance with Stage II components, a revised first-gear ratio, and an Ace Track King twin-disc clutch. A GearFX Hammerhead rear axle with a 3.55:1 Truetrac differential transfers power to the pavement.
The result is a world-class restomod that has earned significant industry recognition, including selection among the Top 15 nominees for the HRIA Design & Innovation Award at the 2022 SEMA Show, a Top 5 Street Machine of the Year finalist position, and a Muscle Machine of the Year finalist honor from Goodguys. Featured in the January 2023 issue of Hot Rod magazine, “Solar Flare” stands as a showcase of modern craftsmanship, advanced engineering, and the enduring appeal of Chevrolet’s legendary C2 Corvette.
Source: Bring a Trailer
