Top Corvettes featured in PHA Concours at Simeone Museum

Words & Photos by Richard Martin.

On Saturday July 17th the Simeone Museum in Philadelphia hosted the 4th Annual Cool Cars for Kids Philadelphia concours d'elegance with Corvette as the featured marque. 

Cool Cars for Kids supports research to help children born with rare genetic diagnoses.

This 1956 SR2 Corvette created by Chief GM stylist Harley Earl was awarded best in show.

By 1957 a 283 cu in engine was installed, topped by Ramjet Fuel Injection unit modified with dual air-meters.

It’s been completely restored by Corvette Repair in Valley Stream NY after being acquired from Rich Mason by noted collector Irwin Kroiz from nearby Ambler PA.  Catalog ID 130

Mackay’s 1966 big block FIA ex Team Penske GT class winner was on display as it appeared in Sunoco blue trim at Sebring in March of that year.  Catalog ID 206

The Simeone Museum’s 1963 big block SCCA USRRC CM Grand Sport 002 roadster is in running condition, exactly as it was raced by Penske’s friend George Wintersteen and then by Ed Mueller in vintage.  Catalog ID 411

Al Schwacke from nearby Glen Mills PA brought this 1955 Corvette that he built to go vintage racing, powered by a 283 cu. In. engine.  His son Bill has taken over the driving with great success. Catalog ID C1VR1

Tom O’Brien from Virginia displayed this chassis of an original Gulf Oil research car fitted as a Grand Sport coupe with several original parts.

A panel discussion of Corvette Racing and other experts led by Harry Hurst consisted of Corvette Hall of Famer Tony DeLorenzo, the aforementioned George Wintersteen, former GM VP of Global Design Ed Welburn and Lowell Paddock, author of Corvette Grand Sport: 1962-67 with Dave Friedman.

Events included a car corral, a road rally and Hagerty’s youth judging program.  Guests also enjoyed food trucks, Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleaders, souvenirs, and of course the fantastic collection.