Zora Arkus-Duntov -The Legend Behind Corvette

by Jerry Burton

Zora Arkus-Duntov: The Legend Behind Corvette tells the story of how a gifted engineer brought up by Russian Revolutionary parents became the guiding force behind the legendary American sports car, and in the process attained the elite status of American legend himself. Author Jerry Burton, founding editor and current editorial director of Corvette Quarterly, has worked with many of Zora's friends and colleagues, as well as his widow Elfi, to write the first major biography of Zora Arkus-Duntov. Burton has illustrated his book with hundreds of unpublished photos, blueprints, and archival documents.This book puts Duntov in the perspective needed to understand his achievements as a Russian-Jewish immigrant fighting to make his mark at General Motors.

Genres: History

428 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Adam · Rating 3 out of 5]

After getting myself a C3 Corvette a few years ago, I've been learning more and more about them, and the men who made them. This was definitely on the list, and referenced by a few books I've already read. I'd learnt a little bit about Zora Arkus-Duntov, but hearing his story, how he got his double-barreled last name, his journey to even get a foot in the door let alone GM and the Corvette project, and his continual struggles against management was fantastic. It's a must read for any true corvette fan.

I found the writing style mostly good, however there were times that I felt the ordering was off, where something was mentioned in passing where context was needed, only to be given a few pages later.

[Jose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Excellent Biography on A Man who deserves credit along with others including Harley Earl,Ed Cole,etc on the Birth and development of the Greatest American Sports Car,I would Dare Say Best Overall Sports Car. I find Jerry Burton's Book and Zora's (R.I.P.)life at times funny,other times tragic,and sometimes plain Shocking and a bit disappointing(his Immoral Behavior-Elfi is A Saint,God Bless her.)This Biography on Zora Arkus-Duntov,A Man born of A Communist philandering mother sadly.Who despite this and the distance his mother had towards him still become a Man who paved his way and overcame.He was not a Perfect man,none of us are. It's just disappointing to read on some of the cold things he did.
However,it was His Personal Life.there is one little problem I take issue with When Mr.Burton makes a quote in the book I have a problem with :Zora at a time in the fifties "during Mccarthy's Witchhunt".. I do sincerely believe Communism was a Threat and believe Mr.Mccarthy was a Good man,and It's no reason whatsoever for Burton to input his beliefs into a Otherwise Great Biography.That being said,This is a Book for The Corvette Lover,5+Stars! Several Pictures,All Black and white,Zora's interesting life and accomplishments and How he Improved Harley Earl's Car and has a right to Being Called One of if not to some the Father Of The Corvette.

[Wes Knapp · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy reading automotive history and biographies. While I have never owned a Corvette I have always heard of the contributions that Zora Arkus-Duntov make to this American sports car in its earliest days through the late 1960's. This book is a fascinating look at Zora's life - born in Russia and fleeing Nazi Germany to the United States in the late 1930's.

Read this book if you are remotely interested in the US Automotive industry.

[Natalie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mildly interesting if you have a respect for the Corvette