Corvette Museum sinkhole latest - more cars recovered

The latest news is that two more cars have been recovered, but these are more significantly damaged than the three that were recovered earlier in the week, as they have either been partially covered in dirt and debris, or had sections of the structure collapse on them.

The National Corvette Museum posted images of two latest vehicles recovered - the one millionth production Corvette (a C4 convertible) from 1992 and the PPG Pace Car (also a C4) that was created in 1984.

"Initially there was no intention to bring the Millionth out, but as we got in there and saw more this morning we did feel like this might be our best chance," said Danny Daniel, President of Scott, Murphy and Daniel Construction, on March 5.

Danny indicated that they pulled the car by one wheel from where it was lodged and it swung free into the cavern. They were then able to lift the car and place it to rest, upside down on the bottom of the sinkhole. Finally, the Corvette was hooked up by its two tires for final lifting out of the sinkhole, much like the process to retrieve the 1993 40th Anniversary 'Vette.

"Went like a champ, we were tickled to death," added Daniel.

"The Millionth Corvette has been through a lot, but the damage at first glance seems to be less extensive than what it could have been, especially given the precarious spot the car landed," said Bob Hellmann, Facilities and Displays Manager at the Museum. "The undercarriage and frame look to be in good condition and everything is repairable."

The Millionth Corvette was built at 2:00pm on July 2, 1992 in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Just like the first 1953 Corvettes, it bears a white exterior, red interior and is a convertible. The car was donated to the Corvette Museum by General Motors.

The Museum now has half of the cars recovered from the sinkhole and on display, and in a few weeks hopes to be adding the remaining four. Construction crews will continue the stabilization of the spire and walls of the sinkhole before attempting to vacuum out the dirt from around the remaining cars.

"We appreciate all of the support and interest from Corvette and auto enthusiasts around the world," said Wendell Strode, Museum Executive Director.

"We still have a long road ahead, lots of repairs to make but we are confident we will come out better than ever."

Links to photos, videos and press releases are available on the Museum's website at www.corvettemuseum.org.

Images: courtesy of National Corvette Museum