Some classic cars are more equal than others. Rarity can set them apart, while mind-bending performance, extreme beauty, or unparalleled luxury can prove the defining characteristic. This 1971 Chevrolet Corvette falls flat on that last measure but emphatically ticks the rest of the boxes. Not only is it 1-of-12 ZR-2 variants produced that year, but it is confirmed as the last to roll off the line. It received a meticulous restoration and comes with the original documentation confirming its authenticity. As one of the auction stars, the ‘Vette is due to cross the blocks in Indianapolis, Indiana, on Saturday, May 20th. You will find the ZR-2 listed here at Mecum Auctions with a guide price of $475,000 – $600,000. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting this genuinely jaw-dropping classic.
This Corvette hides its light under a bushel. Its presentation is flawless, but there are few indications of what lurks below the surface. The car received a frame-off restoration by renowned specialists Corvette Repair, Inc. in Valley Stream, New York. No aspect of the build escaped their critical eye in the search for perfection. The Brands Hatch Green paint shines deeply, but the appearance is in keeping with a car that just rolled off the line rather than a show-quality trailer queen. The fiberglass is as perfect as you would expect from a vehicle of this caliber, as are the glass and chrome. The factory Rally wheels, with their trim rings and center caps, are in as-new condition, with the overall result being a car that would appeal to any C3 enthusiast. Even the big-block hood and “454” badges provide little indication of this car’s true worth.
The recent restoration extended to this Corvette’s interior, returning it to a correct factory fresh state. The upholstered surfaces feature Green vinyl that is perfect. The same is true of the carpet and dash, with no signs of crumbling plastic or wheel wear. The gauges feature clear lenses and crisp markings, but it is what this interior doesn’t contain that hints at why it stands apart from its peers. Luxury appointments extend to…nothing. Ticking the ZR2 box on the Order Form meant the buyer could not add air conditioning, power windows, power locks, or a radio. This was a weight-saving measure in a car focusing on pure performance. Its numerous awards and honors provide a reflection of this Corvette’s restoration. It is Bloomington Gold Certified. It was invited to the Bloomington Gold Collection for display in their “Tribute to the LS6” in 2021 and was also displayed at the NCRS National Convention. Topping its achievements, it recently emerged from a two-year stint at the Gilmore Car Museum as the star of its “Greatest Generations – Corvette – Evolution of America’s Sports Car” exhibition.
Okay, you’ve waited long enough. It is time to unveil what turns a potent Corvette into something other-worldly. Chevrolet offered a wide selection of engine choices to 1971 Corvette buyers, with 188 buyers selecting the LS6 big-block, churning out an “official” 425hp and 475 ft/lbs of torque. However, only twelve buyers took the daring step of ordering the ZR-2 package. This variant was the ultimate expression of Corvette potential and was a total package providing a perfect blend of power, handling, and braking. ZR-2s received the M22 “Rock Crusher” four-speed close-ration manual transmission, a Posi rear end, transistorized ignition, a heavy-duty aluminum radiator, heavy-duty power disc brakes, and the F41 suspension with specific springs, shocks, and sway bars at both ends. Many enthusiasts agree the ZR-2 was the best-handling big-block C3, suggesting the company got the package right. Some have speculated about the official power figure for the 454, suggesting that the actual figure rests somewhere north of 500hp. Was it fast? A ¼-mile ET of 13.7 seconds confirmed nothing within the ’71 Corvette range could touch it. This car is in perfect mechanical health, with no issues, problems, or modifications. The highly-strung nature of its big-block means it would be an impractical daily driver, but taking it to a track day so it can let down its hair could be tempting. The sale includes a significant collection of paperwork. The winning bidder receives the original Owner’s Manual, Protect-O-Plate, Warranty Book, Build Sheet, and NCRS/GM Shipping Data Report.
The term “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” can be used with abandon to describe many things, and it is sometimes utilized inappropriately in the classic world. However, that is not the case with this 1971 Corvette ZR-2. Only twelve rolled off the line, and the chance to park the final one built in your garage may never come along again. Some experts predict the bidding could climb into seven-figure territory, which is a possibility that can’t be ruled out. If that proves the case, it will place it beyond the reach of most enthusiasts. If you had the available funds, would you indulge your classic passion by bidding on this rare beast? I would like to wish you luck if you do.
At that price point I would be too anxious about driving it to enjoy it. But you could replicate the experience for a lot less money if you wanted – it just wouldn’t have the provenance of this car, Thanks for the write up, I wasn’t aware of the ZR-2 option.
I’ll never understand the appeal of the first or last or serial number 888 or 777 or 666 for that matter. It’s not like there is really any difference between them and some other identical except for position in the series. Am I supposed to be all agog when someone tells me their car is extra special because of that? Why not stick an extra zero or two to the price of a car that stopped being driven when the odometer had a cool number? As Tbone said, you can have the same thing for a lot less. But it’s only money, right?
If I won the powerball for some obnoxious sum of $ I’d buy it and beat the snot out of it at the strip.What it was designed and built to do.Quarters would be covered in rubber.Have fun not sitting in a museum or some car show with a bunch of stuffy old guys with deep pockets looking at every little detail of originality.Beautiful car but so dang hard to get in and out of at least for me with my old tired knees.Cool write up I’ve heard of these cars but never saw one in person.
” I’d buy it and beat the snot out of it ”
Let’s hope it finds a better owner.
To each one’s own. If you own it you can do exactly what you want with it.
I agree. If I’m paying $500K for a car, it’s not going to get beat. But then again, there are some people with more money than brains.
This car is from the Ed Foss collection. He only bought Corvettes with fewer than 10,000 actual miles and whatever he bought it had to have original exhaust. I had a Brabds Hatch Green on green 454 coupe in 1976. Of course it was just an LS5. This car too valuable to drive with today’s roads clogged with everyone tailgating with a phone glued to their face.
I see an alternator of course, but also another belt driven item that looks like a small A/C compressor(?). What am I looking at, please?
It’s the A.I.R. (smog/emissions) pump.
I’m arranging to buy this car so that I’ll be the proud owner of exactly half of the total known ZR2 production…in my dreams.
For the People from “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” only, as are most classic cars these days. You can park 6 other cars from each generation and nice ones for that much cash including a non ZR-2 optioned car!!!
And six of these ZR-2 optioned cars are worth what one 1969 ZL-1 Corvette is worth. Everything is relative.
A.I.R. system. Early emissions air pump.
@Bub for my comment^
Got it. Thanks Dennis.
The person that buys this car will probably ever drive it ,the car will be in a collection .
I have always had a problem with every Muscle Car I have owen’d. My right foot !! I would never be happy with owning a car like this and not being able to prove to myself that it has the H.P. and can handle the way it is supposed to.
They were built to be driven, not just looked at.
I’m with you Ronald, wear it out! Don’t let it collect dust…
This car is a legend. Up there with the L88.
So, in 1972 I built my car on the cheap. 67 camaro, alum head 427/425, M21, 12 bolt 488s, ran low 11’s @ $1400. Total, and I didn’t know what I was doing.
$1400 in 1972 is equal to a bit over $10,000 today. So unless you were wealthy, that isn’t cheap.
I disagree. 10,000 is nothing today in the car world. Used cars back then didn’t carry the resale value they do today because they were considered OLD cars and as such were worn out. I never paid more than a few hundred for a car that was used. I built a few Chrysler drag cars back then at most spending 1100 to 1600 in each one so Zigzag spending $1400 was very little then and more so today.
and one last thing. I think your rule of thumb for inflation is why off. The car market is much different than living inflation. Building that same car today would cost at least 50K
SOLD for $715,000.
I would personally prefer this over the million dollar Challenger.
of course you would.