Roman Red / Ermine White. The Corvette was Americas 1st sports car, this the 1st generation, the C1 Corvette was built from 1953-62, available in roadster only, often referred to as the solid-axle models (the independent rear suspension was introduced with the 2nd generation). In 1953, only 300 hand built white cars were built and was only available with the 6 cyl 1954 saw more colours available and 3640 were built. The 265 cu in V8 introduced in 1955 1956 saw a facelift, now round headlights and the new coved sides. 1957; 283 V8 and fuel injection Another facelift in 1958 saw quad headlights And in 1961, the Corvette got a less elaborate fine mesh grille, but a new ducktail rear end with 4 round taillights.