Master Builder Joe Clevenger’s 1958 Corvette Restomod Sells for $480,000 at Barrett-Jackson
The hammer dropped at $480,000, and another Joe Clevenger masterpiece found its new home. As lot number 1348 crossed the Barrett-Jackson auction block, bidders recognized what automotive enthusiasts have known for years—when Joe Clevenger builds a restomod, something extraordinary emerges from his workshop.
“I’ve built probably 15 of these cars, brought them out to Barrett Jackson, sold them over the years,” Clevenger explains with the quiet confidence of a craftsman. This is a man who has perfected his art.
His annual tradition of bringing a gorgeous restomod to the Barrett-Jackson auction has become legendary in collector car circles. He brings one meticulously crafted Corvette per year, each destined for the bright lights of Barrett-Jackson’s auction stage.
The Philosophy Behind a Joe Clevenger Build
Joe’s approach to building cars stems from both passion and practicality. “I tell my wife it keeps me out of the bars,” he jokes. Beneath the humor lies a deeper truth about the dedication required for this level of craftsmanship.
Each project represents months of painstaking work, where attention to detail separates amateur efforts from professional-grade restorations. The process demands patience, skill, and an unwavering commitment to excellence that few builders can sustain year after year.
This particular 1958 Chevrolet Corvette custom convertible exemplifies everything that makes Clevenger’s work special. From its carefully chosen color palette to its seamlessly integrated modern components, every element reflects decades of experience and an intuitive understanding of what makes a great restomod.
Engineering Excellence Meets Timeless Design
Under the hood of Clevenger’s Corvette C1 creation sits an LT1 direct injection engine, producing 460 horsepower that transforms this vintage beauty into a modern performance machine. The powerplant represents current General Motors engineering at its finest, delivering both impressive output and the reliability that makes these cars genuinely drivable.
The Art Morrison chassis with independent suspension provides the backbone for this transformation. This isn’t simply about adding power. It’s also about creating a cohesive package where every component works in harmony with the others.
Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with period-appropriate styling. The interior features new seats, Vintage Air conditioning, and a Bluetooth-capable radio system that maintains the car’s authentic appearance while providing contemporary functionality.
The Unique Challenges of Building One-of-a-Kind Corvette C1 Restomods
“Parts are always hard to find,” Clevenger notes, explaining one of the biggest obstacles facing any serious restoration project. Beyond sourcing components, achieving proper fitment requires exceptional skill and patience.
The build process reveals the true complexity of creating a world-class restomod. “It’s like you literally have to build the car three times to put something together like this,” Clevenger explains. This reality separates weekend warriors from professional builders who understand that excellence demands multiple iterations and constant refinement.
Clevenger’s Impeccable Design Choices
The color selection process shows Clevenger’s thoughtful approach to modification of his C1 restomod. Rather than choosing a flashy or attention-grabbing color, he opted for a classy rose gold hue that could have been available on an original 1958 Corvette, but with a subtle modern twist.
Interior appointments showcase similar restraint and sophistication. Woven leather materials add depth and character without overwhelming the cabin’s classic lines. Every upgrade serves a purpose while maintaining the car’s essential character.
These decisions reflect an understanding that successful restomods enhance rather than mask their vintage origins. The goal isn’t to create something entirely new, but to realize the full potential of an already exceptional design.
It’s Not Just Looks: Performance Matters, Too
“This car drives great,” Clevenger states with obvious pride. “It literally runs, drives, breaks, steers—I mean, it drives like a new car.” This transformation from vintage classic to modern performer represents the restomod philosophy at its best.
The combination of contemporary engineering and classic aesthetics creates a unique driving experience. Modern reliability eliminates the concerns that often keep vintage cars garage-bound, while the authentic appearance delivers the emotional connection that draws enthusiasts to classic vehicles.
Clevenger knows he has another stunner on his hands when he takes a car like this into public. “You go to the gas station, you can’t hardly leave there,” he observes. “It takes 20 minutes from people wanting to stop and talk to you.” This level of attention reflects both the car’s visual impact and its obvious quality.
Market Recognition and Value
The Barrett-Jackson auction provided dramatic validation of Clevenger’s craftsmanship. As the auctioneer called out bids, the final $480,000 sale price demonstrated that discerning collectors recognize exceptional work when they see it.
The successful bidder, Cars of Dreams, clearly understood the opportunity. This wasn’t just acquiring another classic car—it was securing a piece built by one of the industry’s most respected craftsmen.
Market trends continue to favor high-quality restomods that deliver modern performance in classic packages. Today’s buyers increasingly appreciate vehicles that can be driven and enjoyed rather than simply displayed, making Clevenger’s approach particularly relevant.
What’s Next?
Clevenger’s annual building tradition represents more than just a business model. It’s a commitment to advancing the art of automotive restoration. Each new project builds upon lessons learned from previous builds, creating a continuous cycle of improvement and innovation.
Joe’s website provides enthusiasts with glimpses into upcoming projects and finished vehicles. This transparency allows collectors to follow his work and understand the processes behind each creation.
Protecting Your Investment
Whether you own an original classic, a professionally built restomod like Joe Clevenger’s creations, or anything in between, proper insurance protection is essential. These automotive treasures represent significant financial investments and irreplaceable pieces of automotive history that deserve specialized coverage.
Indianapolis is home to Classic Auto Insurance, a family-owned business driven by a deep passion for classic cars and a commitment to delivering exceptional service to collectors and classic car enthusiasts. For over 25 years, we’ve been an active part of the local collector car community—offering personalized support you can count on, not just another voice in a call center.
Our policies are backed by American Modern Insurance Group, an A+ rated, nationally recognized leader in specialty insurance. Licensed in 48 states, Classic Auto Insurance offers some of the most comprehensive and inclusive coverage options available for classic and collector cars.
Ready to protect your classic car investment with coverage designed specifically for collectors and enthusiasts? Contact Classic Auto Insurance today to discover how we can help safeguard your automotive passion.
