The third-generation Chevrolet Corvette was the natural step in the evolution of America's favorite sports car and set a design language that would define the Corvette nameplate for decades to come. Though the underpinnings of the C3 differed little from the previous generation, the remainder of the car was brand new. Sitting on a familiar chassis was a striking and aggressive new design paired with a reworked selection of V8 engines. The sloping curves of the C2 had made way for angular, bold peaks and a new rear-end that would remain a staple of the Corvette's look for nearly 50 years. For the 1970 model year, integrated fender flares improved the styling of the C3' Vette even further. Engine options similarly evolved throughout the years, with the 327 cubic-inch small-block V8 increasing in size to the now ubiquitous Chevy 350. The interior was reworked with modern amenities in mind, such as integrated air conditioning. The new Corvette retained the performance that enthusiasts expected from America's sports car but gained a degree of comfort unavailable in the previous C2.
This 1971 Chevrolet Corvette LS5 is a fantastic example of the C3 big blocks. It is painted Brands Hatch Green over a Saddle interior- a gentleman’s most ideal color combination. Under the hood lies a numbers-matching 454 cubic-inch 365hp V8 engine, with a slightly larger cam. A 4-barrel carburetor handles fuel delivery, and power is sent through the car's 4 speed manual. While production for this example started in 1970, this Corvette was in process during the iconic GM production strike, and was later finished as a 1971 model year. This '71 Corvette comes from long-term ownership and has received significant restorative work to ensure that it is a fun and reliable weekend cruiser fit for any muscle car enthusiast. Includes 13 years worth of service records, receipts, many original spare parts, and freshly installed 2024 date coded tires.