Zora Arkus-Duntov’s Only Corvette, Fully Preserved, to Debut at National Corvette Museum’s 31st Anniversary
After a meticulous, multi-year preservation effort, the only Corvette ever owned by Zora Arkus-Duntov—the legendary “Godfather of the Corvette”—will make its public debut during the National Corvette Museum’s 31st Anniversary Celebration, August 28–30, 2025.
Zora’s personal 1974 custom two-tone blue Corvette Stingray, a retirement gift from Chevrolet, has been preserved with precision by the Museum’s Collections and Preservation team. The body was carefully separated from the chassis, allowing complete access to the frame, suspension, and underbody. Each component was documented, cleaned, stabilized, and reinstalled to ensure its authenticity. Even the creased leather armrest on the driver’s side—worn from years of Zora’s elbow resting as he drove—was intentionally left untouched.
“This car represents Corvette history in its purest form,” said Robert Maxhimer, Director of Curatorial Affairs and Education at the National Corvette Museum. “Preserving Zora’s personal Corvette is the first of many in-depth preservation projects that will ensure our collection lasts for generations.”
Zora Arkus-Duntov, inducted into the Corvette Hall of Fame in 1998, played a pivotal role in elevating the Corvette into a world-class performance vehicle. His personal 1974 Corvette Stingray features a 454 big block engine, automatic transmission, air conditioning, power steering and brakes, and aluminum wheels.
Originally silver, then later painted green, the car eventually received its iconic custom two-tone blue livery when Zora asked a friend for a new paint job. The final result, including his initials “ZAD” on the doors, was a surprise—but one Zora appreciated. His wife, Elfi, marked the occasion with a painting of Zora standing beside the car. A decal reading “Zora Arkus-Duntov Engineering Center” remains on the rear deck, serving as a subtle tribute to his legacy.
The preservation will be the centerpiece of a reimagined Corvette Hall of Fame exhibition, launching during the Anniversary weekend. Attendees will enjoy exclusive insights into the restoration process through expert-led sessions featuring the Museum’s new generation of preservation professionals.
The National Corvette Museum’s 31st Anniversary Celebration takes place August 28–30, 2025, in Bowling Green, Kentucky. For tickets, lodging, and a full schedule of events, click the button below.
