The newly released Chevrolet V-8 is added to the option list, albeit with a higher compression, hotter camshaft and 4-barrel carburetor. Specs: 265 CID. Bore and stroke: 3.75 x 3.00 inches. Compression ratio: 8.00:1. Horsepower: 195 @ 5000 RPM. Torque: 260 @ 3000 RPM. See the Corvette Brochure HERE.

The 1955 Corvette’s fiberglass body, chrome-framed grille with 13 heavy vertical chrome bars, rounded front fenders with recessed headlights, no side windows or outside door handles, a wraparound windshield and protruding, fender-integrated taillights were retained. The big change was the 195 HP V-8. The “V” in “Corvette” on the front fender side emblem was enlarged and gold colored, touting the V8 engine under the hood.

1955 V-8 and I-6 Corvettes continued with the mandatory-option Powerglide automatic transmission, however a new three-speed manual transmission was released later in the year for V8 models only. Exterior color choices were expanded to at least five, combined with at least four interior colors. Soft-tops now came in three colors and different materials. and 12 volt electrical systems, while 6-cylinder models retained the 6-volt systems used in 1953-54. Only Pennant Blue and Polo White returned as Corvette colors. New was Corvette Copper, Gypsy Red (red/orange) and Harvest Gold. Convertible tops now came in white, dark green, or beige. red, yellow, light beige and dark beige.  “Elascofab” interiors were available.

The interior retained its floor­ mounted shifter for the Powerglide automatic and the new 3-speed manual transmission.

In-line Six Cylinder.  Overhead valves. Cast iron block. Four main bearings. 
Displacement: 235.5 cubic inches.
Bore and stroke: 3.56 x 3.93 inches.
Compression ratio: 8.0:1.
Horsepower: 155 @ 4200 RPM.
Torque: 225 @ 2800 RPM.
Valve lifters: Mechanical.
Camshaft timing: Intake 243 degrees; Exhaust: 244 degrees; Lift: 0.4051″.
Carburetors: Three (3) Carter Type YH one-barrels (#3706989) Model 2055S.