The 1974 model year was a dismal one for the U.S. auto industry given the growing impact of the OPEC oil embargo on thirsty car sales. Yet, the Chevy Corvette bucked that trend and saw an increase in production of more than 23%. Those cars would be the last available with the big-block 454 cubic inch V8 and without catalytic converters required in 1975 for better emission controls. This ’74 Vette is being offered by a dealer and needs a new paint job, though we know little else about the car. Located in Springfield, Missouri, this Chevy is available here on craigslist for $8,988. Another tip from Gunter Kramer!
Visibly, the ’74 Corvette differed from prior models with its new body-colored rear urethane bumper designed for more energy absorption when tapped at low speeds. This had been done on the front end the year before. Behind the Tupperware was situated an aluminum impact bar that was mounted to the Corvette’s chassis by two telescopic brackets.
The 350 cubic-inch V8 was still standard on the Corvette and the VIN here suggests that’s what’s under the hood of this car. Two versions of that motor were available, with the 250 hp version capable of propelling the cars from 0 to 60 in 7.5 seconds and topping the speedometer at 125 mph, so the Corvette was still no slouch in the performance department. But they were only good for 15 mpg in fuel consumption, and Corvette buyers didn’t seem to care as 37,500 of them were built in 1974.
Because a dealer is involved in the sale of this car, little is known about it. The odometer reading is 67,000 miles and we assume it runs, but the seller does not tell us. The photos are all taken in a dark garage, and you’d think a dealer would do better than that. The maroon paint job needs to be redone as it’s chipped and cracking in many places. The ‘Vette has Rally wheels but not all the pieces seem to be there. The interior is of a matching color when you’d think black upholstery would be more likely. This is probably a project car that warrants inspection before pulling the trigger.
Pretty sure all 74 had the split rear urethane bumper. Changed at least once in it’s past?
$3500.00 would be a very generous offer.
I have a friend who is a long time Corvette guy. He says this version in a lot better condition “ain’t worth nothing”.
Speaking of gas mileage, 15 mpg doesn’t sound great but consider the new C8 Vette average is 19. Explain that one to me?
The C8 has been EPA certified at 15 city/27 highway. Not bad for 495 hp in my opinion.
Not a ‘74 rear bumper. ‘74 had the split rear bumper and lettering was different. That’s a later year bumper. Has it been hit in the rear?
Those urethane bumper caps–be they front or rear–actually disintegrate, literally, with time. Therefore the car may have been hit in the back, or the original two section cap may have crumbled by itself from old age. You are correct, GDTOKC, that the rear cap is incorrect. Whoever replaced it should have picked up the correct type and thus also have ensured the placement of the original separate chrome letters back where they should be. From the back the car now looks like a ’76 or ’77…further bringing down its value. A nice L-48 ’74 will never be very valuable, but in good shape and to original specification, will always be a minor, affordable collectible classic that looks quite cool
I agree Frank. I’ve seen a a lot better for a whole lot less.
Is that Missouri mud on them tires ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,