The LT-1 version of Chevrolet’s iconic small-block V8 was one of the most expensive options offered on the 1970 Corvette. However, it provided some distinct advantages over the big-block alternative. With less weight hanging over the front axle, cars with the LT-1 were a more “complete” driving package that typically handled and braked more effectively than those with larger engines. This ‘Vette features an LT-1 and is a neat and solid driver that is ready to provide a new owner with years of motoring pleasure. The seller has listed it here on eBay in New Baltimore, Michigan. The fact that 157 people are watching the listing demonstrates its desirability, with fifty bids pushing the price to $25,600 in a No Reserve auction.

The 1970 model year brought the first significant change to the C3 Corvette’s styling. The company integrated subtle fender flares following buyer complaints of paint damage from errant stones kicked up by the wheels. The first owner ordered this beauty in Classic White, 1-of-11 shades offered that year. The seller indicates that this ‘Vette received a cosmetic refresh approximately ten years ago, and it still presents nicely. The paint retains a healthy shine, and any defects in it or the fiberglass are too minor to show in the supplied photos. The beauty is more than skin deep, with the underside shots revealing no nasty frame issues. The trim and tinted glass look comfortably acceptable for a driver-grade classic, with the same true of the Rally wheels.

Powering this Corvette is a 350ci V8 that the seller believes is numbers-matching. This isn’t any old small-block, but is the desirable LT-1 variant that delivers 370hp and 380 ft/lbs of torque. The first owner teamed the LT-1 with a four-speed manual transmission, creating a car that could storm the ¼-mile in 13.8 seconds. The LT-1 added a hefty $447.60 to the Corvette’s sticker price, helping to explain why it was only chosen by 1,287 buyers. The big-block produced more power and torque, was considerably cheaper, and found its way under the hoods of over 25% of Corvettes that year. So, what makes the LT-1 so desirable? Its acceleration figures were slightly slower than the 454ci powerplant, and it wasn’t as effortless to drive as the big-block variant. However, it produced a higher top speed, and the curb weight was nearly 200 lbs lighter. With most of the big-block’s additional weight hanging over the front wheels, the LT-1 provided better handling and braking. The seller confirms that this car’s V8 was recently rebuilt, and is in excellent health. They deleted the ignition shielding but added polished Patriot headers and a new dual exhaust. Reversing those changes would be easy for those preferring originality. Otherwise, this classic runs and drives well, and is a turnkey proposition.

This Corvette’s interior demonstrates the original owner’s focus on outright performance because it doesn’t feature such niceties as air conditioning, power windows, or a tilt/telescopic wheel. Someone added a Hurst shifter and a JVC radio/cassette player, but I can’t spot any other modifications. The presentation is hard to fault, with no visible wear on the Blue vinyl trim, and carpet that has avoided the typical fading issue. The plastic is in good order, the gauges are crystal clear, and there is no evidence of UV damage.

This 1970 Corvette isn’t totally original, but there is no denying that it has generated considerable interest. The auction is heading into the home straight, which is typically the time when the action intensifies. It has no apparent needs, and reversing any changes to return the car to its factory specifications would be easy and worthwhile if the new owner had one eye on its long-term investment potential. Are you tempted to join what has become a bidding war, or will you join me as an interested observer?