If you’re a car fan and an Elvis fan, this could be one of your only chances to expand your collection for both interests! The Riverside Red 1963 split-window Corvette coupe that appeared in the 1964 Elvis film, Viva Las Vegas, is set to go up on the auction block at Mecum’s Houston 2014 Auction on April 10th-14th. The auction will be held at the Reliant Center in Houston, TX.
The time this car spent with Elvis is not the only memorable event in its history, however. This car was originally owned by Gary Pickens, the widely praised, multi-race-winning driver for Harry Mann Chevrolet. The Corvette underwent several modifications, including adding the RPO L84 fuel injected 327/360 HP engine, a roll cage, overall weight-reduction, and competition brakes.
The most notable modification to this car was the paint job, a large “711” on the side of the car, painted onto the image of dice. This paint job made the car the perfect addition to Viva Las Vegas, a racing movie, set in the gambling capital of the world.
The producers of the movie wanted authentic racecars for the film, and they got their wish with Pickens’ ’63 Corvette; it was as authentic as they came. Now is your chance. If you want a shot at adding this classic Corvette to your collection, make plans to head to the Mecum Auctions in Houston this spring! Before you make your purchase, give Classic Auto a call to get a free classic car insurance quote for any car you may want to add to your collection!
About the Author
Drew Yagodnik is Vice President of Classic Automobile Insurance Agency, Inc. Classic Automobile Insurance Agency has been protecting collector, classic and exotics since 1992.
