Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Signet Red


            Sitting among other classic Corvettes, the 1958 model Scott Read drives looks different.
            “It’s Signet Red,” he said, explaining what looks unique about the car. “It’s an original color that was only used for one year on Vettes in 1958.” And indeed, it does make this car stand out.
            Back in 2005 Scott’s uncle made a garage find and Scott is glad that he did. The Corvette was in terrible condition. In fact, it took a three year frame off restoration to get the car into shape.
            Now, though Scott’s aunt still owns the car, he is the one who takes care of it.
            “I have access to it whenever I want,” he said. “I’ll go over to visit my aunt and at least start it up. The worst thing you can do with a car like this is let it sit.” And with a car like that, why would anyone want to let it sit?
            “If I’m around I’ll take it out,” he said. Sometimes he’ll just drive around with one of his children and other times he’ll take it to a car show. “I’ll go to car shows when I can. If I’m not busy that day,” he added.

            For as bad of shape as the car was in when his uncle found it, the paperwork on it was very complete. Not only was the price sticker with the car but so were the manual, the warranty and even the booklet telling about the optional radio.
            Both Scott and his uncle are familiar with Corvettes. His uncle had four and Scott has a 1985 model. But he readily admits that the ’58 is all kinds of fun to drive.
            “It’s unbelievable once you get used to it,” he said. “There is no power steering, no power brakes. You really have to drive this car.”
            Unlike his ’85 which has power everything, Scott actually said he enjoys driving this machine more, even though his newer model has that great fuel injected engine.
            “This is actually more comfortable than the ’85,” he said. “It’s easier to get in and out of, it rides great and you get a lot of attention when you drive it.”
            How can people not stop and stare when they see this Signet Red Rocket rolling down the street?




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