1974 Chevrolet Corvette

Description

According to Larry Shinoda, the 1974 Corvette with its urethane front and rear bumpers was closer to what his stylists envisioned in 1968 when the C3 was introduced. And you can't argue with the results, because this 1974 Corvette convertible has a graceful yet powerful look that was different than the earlier cars, but certainly just as beautiful. Oh, and it's also got a stout 383, a 5-speed, and a gorgeous interior. What a car!

This handsome black convertible features a fresh cosmetic restoration that includes miles-deep black paint that was applied in 2013, or about 1300 miles ago. With tight-fitting front and rear bumpers (note that the rear is a correct 2-piece unit, unique to 1974 Corvettes), it is beautifully finished and more carefully assembled than any production 'Vette of the period. The lines of the roadster are particularly graceful in profile, which also emphasizes the neat gaps and depth of the finish, along with the bright chrome rocker moldings, which are about the only bright trim on the entire car. It isn't easy or cheap to make a Corvette look this good; someone spent big to get these results. If this car were a few years older, the price tag would be twice as big, so keep that in mind as you're looking at the photos. This sucker's as nice as they get.

The stunning code 425 Dark Red leather interior is a beautiful complement to the black paint and it, too, was replaced and restored during the restoration. Using accurate materials and patterns, it looks like the factory's work, and nobody can argue that a black and red Corvette doesn't look absolutely fantastic. Look a little closer and note that there's A/C, a tilt/telescope wheel, power windows, and a righteous 5-speed manual transmission that looks just like the original 4-speed. Gauges are bright and crisp, and there's a newer JVC AM/FM/CD head unit in place of the original stereo, and a big subwoofer box stowed behind the seats so it sounds fantastic. The interior is also fully lined in Dyna-Mat, so even for a convertible, it's surprisingly quiet inside. Corvettes have always used clever convertible tops, and the new black vinyl top on this car stows easily under the hard rear deck for a smooth look.

This car packs a built 383 cubic inch stroker motor built by Cotton Racing, which cranks out roughly 50% more horsepower than the original 350 and just loves to rev. Beautifully finished with original details throughout, including the cowl induction air cleaner and plain painted valve covers, it runs superbly. The A/C compressor is modern, the alternator is new, and there's a fresh power brake system, all designed to make it reliable and easy to drive. The Tremec TKO 5-speed manual transmission shifts crisply and the chassis is competent; bend this one into a corner and you'll be pleasantly surprised by the size of its performance envelope. The Magnaflow exhaust system is all new and flows better than new while sounding spectacular, and the list of new stuff underneath includes new bearings, bushings, U-joints, ball joints, all steering gear, drive shafts, brake calipers and discs, and A-arms, turning this into a Corvette that you can happily cruise cross-country. Brand new Rally wheels look excellent with fresh trim rings and a set of staggered 235/60/15 and 255/60/15 BFGoodrich rubber.

Getting into the Corvette hobby doesn't have to be expensive and you don't have to settle for some tired, unloved coupe. This legitimate big horsepower convertible with all the toys is a fantastic alternative. Call today!