Mark Beatty loves a Corvette. Let’s face it, what’s not to love!! Owning a 1958 – 1962 Corvette was a bucket list item for Mark, so when in 2017 this 1958 model became available for purchase, he jumped at the chance.
Mark explains, “I was lucky enough to be in a place where I could make it happen, so I went for it. It needed some work, but was in pretty good shape considering how it had been stored. Plus it was roughly 99% complete – it even had both tops which was an added bonus as I live in the Pacific Northwest.”
Originally, it had a fuel injection motor, but that was missing along with the two trunk spears. Mark continues, “It turns out trunk spears are pretty expensive to replace, but for me, it’s not a ‘58 Corvette without the trunk spears!”
Ultimately, it had great bones, and Mark gave it some updates that ensured the gorgeous ’58 aesthetic was maintained, while adding some modern comfort and performance elements. The wheels and tires are really the only noticeable modern exterior features, but under-hood tells another story. Power assisted disc brakes, sport front suspension, a modern crate motor and six speed gearbox are just some of those upgrades.
As well as running like a dream, it also looks incredible. So, let’s talk paint.
Mark laughs as he explains, “Traditionally those red and white corvettes are the ultimate classic, but when I spotted a late model Toyota Tundra in a sparkling root beer shade driving down the freeway, I knew it would give the car the lift I was looking for. The color of the car is so dependent on which way the sun hits it, so it can seem like it’s three different colors depending on the weather!”
With the body color decided, Mark wanted the chassis engine and transmission to look just as good AND be protected. Enter Polychem Powder Coatings. Tough, durable powder was the obvious choice, and the small quantities available from Polychem ensured flexibility and reduced waste.
Polychem’s Copper Cabana was the perfect complement to the root beer exterior and Ken’s Powder Coating in Tacoma, WA did a fantastic job of coating the parts and giving them a new lease of life. As you can see, it looks perfect!
Mark continues, “It was quite the project, but it turned out so much better than I ever could have dreamed. I love everything about this car and you simply can’t beat driving around in a Corvette Roadster at this time of year!.
