1970 Chevrolet Corvette

Description

Yes, this is an ultra-rare LT-1 Corvette, the most potent small block installed in the C3 and a legitimate contender for best all-around Corvette in a generation. To find an LT-1 roadster in original condition is, well, extraordinary.

It is indeed factory Classic White lacquer on the fiberglass flanks of this 'Vette, and for a survivor, it's totally acceptable in every way. Perfect? No. But certainly presentable and you'll never have to make excuses. With just three owners, including the second owner who kept it for more than 34 years, it's an extraordinary find that shows just 55,115 original miles, making it one of the most desirable all-original cars we've ever featured. The fiberglass substrate is in excellent condition, with none of the cracking in the usual areas, and thanks to an easy life, things like the doors and hood close easily with good gaps all around. The LT-1 used a slightly different hood than the big block cars, with special 'LT-1' badging and also highlighted by special pinstripes on this particular car. There's a nice, soft shine to the paint that tells you it's original, and things like the chrome bumpers and stainless rocker trim are in excellent shape. If you want to make a splash at next year's Bloomington Gold, this is the car that'll do it.

The black bucket seat interior is likewise mostly original and remains in very good condition overall. The seat covers show some moderate stretching but no rips or tears and the door panels are excellent. We suspect that the carpets may be replacements simply because they're really, really nice, but there are no other deviations from stock. All the gauges show bright, clear markings and the three-spoke steering wheel looks right in the Corvette's cockpit. Things like A/C and an automatic transmission were not available with the high-revving LT-1, so this one has a 4-speed and not many options beyond an AM/FM radio. It does have a black convertible top that may also be original, as well as an optional removable hardtop finished in black vinyl that's a very desirable option.

The LT-1 almost didn't make it into production due to its radical specifications, but Zora Arkus-Duntov made it happen. With forged internals, 11.0:1 compression, heavy-duty rod bolts, and a giant Holley 4-barrel carburetor, it cranks out an astounding 370 horsepower from 350 cubic inches. It'll rev easily to 6500 RPM without fear of breakage and makes the most amazing sound this side of Daytona. This is the original, numbers-matching engine, of course, and it's quite neatly dressed with all its original equipment intact, including the ultra-rare AIR injection system. There are no deviations from stock, including ram's horn exhaust manifolds and recent work includes a rebuilt carburetor, a new brake master cylinder, valve adjustment, new head gaskets and studs, resurfaced manifolds, and a new alternator. Underneath, the Muncie 4-speed manual transmission snaps through the gears powering a 3.70 rear axle, which hangs on new bushings. There are also new mufflers, new shocks, and a fully rebuilt braking system, so it's ready to rock at a moment's notice. Classic Rally wheels are fitted with modern BFGoodrich radials, the lone concession to the passage of time.

This is an incredible discovery and for Corvette enthusiasts, a high-powered small block is the best kind of Corvette to drive. With an awesome pedigree that includes the original dealer invoice, owner's manual, maintenance receipts, and title documentation, this is an investment-grade all-original Corvette that deserves a home in the very finest Corvette collection. Call now!