1953 C-3 Continental Coupe

C-3 Continental Coupe image

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The Cunningham C-3 Continental Coupe is a marvel of engineering from the 1950s. This two-door sports car was first introduced in 1951 and continued production until 1955. Its designer and manufacturer, Briggs Cunningham, was an avid race car driver and boat enthusiast who aimed to create a sports car with both style and performance.

The exterior of the C-3 Continental Coupe is sleek and aerodynamic, with an elongated hood, rounded fenders, and a curved roofline that tapers down towards the rear. The car's body is made primarily of lightweight aluminum and steel, which adds to its nimble handling and speed.

Under the hood, the C-3 Continental Coupe boasts a powerful 331 cubic inch Hemi V8 engine, which delivers an impressive 306 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. This engine was produced by Chrysler, a company with a history of making reliable and powerful engines.

The C-3 Continental Coupe also features a four-speed manual transmission, which allows for precise control of the vehicle's speed and acceleration. The car's suspension system is designed for maximum performance, with independent front suspension and a rigid rear axle.

The interior of the C-3 Continental Coupe is equally impressive, with leather bucket seats, a walnut dashboard, and a futuristic-looking steering wheel. The car's instrumentation includes a speedometer, tachometer, and gauges for fuel level, oil pressure, and water temperature.

In terms of safety features, the C-3 Continental Coupe is fairly basic, with no seatbelts or airbags. However, the car's lightweight and nimble design make it easy to maneuver in case of an emergency.

Overall, the Cunningham C-3 Continental Coupe is a true masterpiece of engineering, combining style, speed, and power in a way that few other cars from its era were able to achieve. From its aerodynamic exterior to its powerful Hemi V8 engine, this two-door sports car is truly a technical marvel that continues to impress car enthusiasts to this day.

Milestones

- Cunningham C-3 Continental Coupe concept introduced in 1951 - First prototype completed in 1952 - Official debut at the 1953 New York Auto Show - Powered by a Chrysler Hemi V8 engine - Featured a lightweight aluminum body by Italian coachbuilder Vignale - Only 25 units were produced - Considered one of the most beautiful American sports cars of its era - Participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1953, finishing 4th overall - Received the prestigious Gran Turismo Trophy at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in 1953 - Influenced the design of the iconic Shelby Cobra produced in the 1960s


Technical

• Body style: 2-door coupe • Design by: Briggs Cunningham • Production: 25 units • Engine: Chrysler Hemi V8, 5.7-liter, 331 cu in • Horsepower: 280 hp • Transmission: 2-speed automatic or 3-speed manual • Top speed: 150 mph • Wheelbase: 115 inches • Suspension: Independent front and live rear axle • Brakes: Hydraulic drum brakes • Weight: 3,820 lbs • Fuel tank capacity: 25 gallons • Steering: Power assisted • Tires: 7.60 X 15 with optional wire wheels • Dimensions: Overall length 201 inches, overall width 73.1 inches.
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