George Barris' 1958 Corvette: A Masterpiece of Custom Design

Barris' Vision - As car enthusiasts, we were immediately captivated when we first saw the aqua blue Corvette recently featured in Myron Vernis' status on X (formerly Twitter). At first glance, it might appear to be a modified version of the experimental 1958 Corvette XP-700 prototype—an iconic car that was never fully produced. However, a closer inspection reveals that this vehicle is much more than just a tribute or replica; it's a one-of-a-kind creation with its own fascinating history, far removed from the original XP-700 design.

This aqua blue Corvette was crafted by one of the leading customizers of the time, George Barris, using a 1958 production model inspired by the experimental 1958 Corvette XP-700 prototype. (Picture from: Myron Vernis's Status on X)

This particular aqua blue Corvette is based on a 1958 production model but underwent a remarkable transformation in the mid-1960s, years after the XP-700 prototype had been dismantled and reimagined as the Corvette Mako Shark I. The customization of this car was commissioned by Accessories International, a California-based company known for its automotive accessories, such as decorative moldings, chrome engine parts, and custom air filter housings. The company acquired a second-hand 1958 Corvette and saw an opportunity to turn it into a display of their products with the help of one of the leading customizers of the time: George Barris.

The customization of this car was commissioned by Accessories International, a California-based company known for its automotive accessories. (Picture from: IDAOffice)

Barris, the founder of Barris Kustoms, was a prominent figure in the world of car customization, known for his ability to transform ordinary vehicles into extraordinary works of art. While his name is most closely associated with the famous Batmobile and other Hollywood car creations, Barris’s work extended far beyond the entertainment industry. His influence in the world of automotive design, especially in the realm of custom vehicles, was immense. And this particular aqua blue Corvette stands as a testament to his artistic vision.

This is the original XP-700 prototype, showcasing a distinct design that sets it apart with the Barris's aqua blue custom Corvette. (Picture from: IDAOffice)

The customization of this Corvette is particularly interesting because it was influenced by the design of the XP-700 prototype, which Barris was familiar with. The XP-700, though never put into production, was an experimental Corvette that had a striking, futuristic design—something that intrigued Barris. For this project, Barris recreated the front end of the car from memory, capturing the distinct oval radiator air intake that was a defining feature of the XP-700. However, he left out certain non-functional elements like the side “gills,” which were more about decoration than performance.

For this project, George Barris recreated the front end of the car from memory, capturing the distinct oval radiator air intake that was a defining feature of the XP-700. (Picture from: VoloMuseum)

Barris didn’t stop at the front end; the rear of the car was also altered to give it a more dynamic and futuristic look. The design elements incorporated here mirrored features that would later be seen on the 1961 and 1962 production Corvettes. But Barris added his own unique twist: small fins at the rear, a feature that had never been seen on a Corvette before. This subtle modification added a touch of originality to the car, making it stand out even more in a world where customization was all about making a bold statement.

The aqua blue Corvette boasts a wooden-rimmed steering wheel and a driver-focused dashboard with well-placed gauges, elevating the driving experience. (Picture from: VoloMuseum)

The car’s modifications were not limited to its bodywork. Barris used various parts from Accessories International to elevate the vehicle's overall aesthetic. For example, the gleaming chrome accents in the engine compartment were not just for show—they were functional, high-quality components that demonstrated the partnership between Barris and the accessories company. Even the steering wheel was customized, sporting a wooden rim—a stark departure from the standard steering wheel on production Corvettes. This small but important touch added a sense of luxury and sophistication to the car’s interior, further showcasing the attention to detail that Barris brought to every project.

This aqua blue Corvette, originally powered by a 283, was upgraded with a 1964 Corvette 327-340 hp engine and enhanced with gleaming chrome accents in the engine bay. (Picture from: VoloMuseum)

Additionally, the transmission lever proudly bore the word “HURST,” referencing a well-known brand that supplied racing equipment. This was a nod to the car’s performance capabilities, adding an element of racing culture to the custom design. Another interesting touch was the handrail in front of the passenger seat, often referred to as a “sissy bar.” While the name might sound unusual, it was a playful addition, adding character to the car and contributing to its unique identity.

The aqua blue Corvette showcases George Barris's unique touch with rear fins, a feature never before seen on a Corvette. (Picture from: VoloMuseum)

What makes this aqua blue Corvette particularly fascinating is how it combines various elements from different sources—some inspired by the XP-700 prototype, others by the later Corvette models—and merges them into a cohesive design that was ahead of its time. The vehicle doesn’t just pay homage to its predecessors; it pushes the boundaries of what a Corvette could look like, blending style, function, and performance in a way that was truly innovative for the 1960s.

The aqua blue Corvette fascinates with its blend of XP-700 prototype elements and later Corvette features, merged into a forward-thinking design. (Picture from: IDAOffice)

While the aqua blue Corvette was ultimately a product of its era, its design feels timeless. The creative work that went into its transformation demonstrates the skill and vision of George Barris, who not only understood the technical aspects of car customization but also had a deep understanding of aesthetics. This Corvette wasn’t just about improving upon an existing model; it was about creating something new, something that stood out in a world where cars were becoming more standardized. Although no video exists for the car discussed above, here’s one featuring the 1963 George Barris Kustom Asteroid Corvette.

Though this car is no longer a regular sight on the streets, its legacy lives on as an example of what happens when creativity and automotive craftsmanship collide. The aqua blue Corvette is a true reflection of the boldness and imagination that defined an era of automotive design. It serves as a reminder that a car is not just a means of transportation—it’s an opportunity for artistic expression, a canvas for customization, and a statement of individuality. This unique vehicle, with its carefully crafted modifications, captures the spirit of automotive innovation and stands as a lasting tribute to the custom car culture that George Barris helped shape. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MYRON VERNIS ON X | IDAOFFICE | CARSWP | VOLOMUSEUM ]

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