This engine was not available in California because of the state's stricter emission standards than was required by federal laws. The LS5 big block 454 cubic inch (7.4-liter) engine was now rated at 270 horsepower. Introduced for 1972, the SAE net horsepower standard replaced the old SAE gross measurement system resulting in lower engine output figures. It was the highest output engine of this period. Available in this year was an LS6 454 cubic inch (7.4-liter) 425-hp big-block engine that could be paired with an automatic transmission. The 1971 model year saw the C3 Corvette engines being down-tuned with decreased compression ratios to make them compatible with lower octane gasoline. An LT-1 was timed at 14.4 seconds for the quarter-mile at a speed of 101.7 mph for which it was compared to a Porsche but without the same expensive price tag. Models with this engine featured a hood bulge and unique decals, but they weren't available with air conditioning. Newly offered was an LT-1 engine, a 350 cubic inch (5.7-liter) 370-hp V-8.
C3 CORVETTE FRONT LICENSE PLATE BRACKET MANUAL
Standard features now included a wide-ratio four-speed manual transmission, the Positraction rear axle, and tinted windows. The seats were redesigned and an upgraded interior option was offered with leather upholstery, wood-grained accents, and upgraded carpets. Per Bullet Motor Sports, in 1970, an eggcrate grille was introduced with matching fender vents, and the tailpipes were increased in size and changed from circular to rectangular. This was the sole year that a ZL1 option was offered with its big block 430 horsepower 427 cubic inch (7.0-liter) aluminum engine.
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Other drivetrain options stayed the same. Convertible models came with a folding soft top but, for an extra cost, a hard top was available.įor 1969, the displacement of the small block engine was increased from 327 to 350 cubic inches (5.4 to 5.7-liter) although the power was unchanged. The coupe featured removable T-top roof panels and rear window. As with the C2, the 1968 C3 Corvettes were offered as a coupe or convertible. The Early YearsĬlassic and Sports Car explains that the design of the C3 Corvette resembled the second-run Mako Shark II concept car that was initiated in 1964. C3 Corvettes featured a new body and interior, but the chassis and engines were carried forward from the previous generation C2. The Chevrolet Corvette C3 was produced from 1967 to 1982 and is the third generation of the Corvette sports car.