Originality is a key consideration for many enthusiasts seeking a classic to park in their garage. Compromising isn’t a consideration, and if you harbor those feelings, this 1974 Chevrolet Corvette deserves a close look. It retains its numbers-matching drivetrain, including the sweet L82 version of Chevrolet’s small-block V8. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this stunning survivor listed here on Craigslist in Boring, Oregon. You could drive it home after handing the seller $18,900.

The 1974 model year brought one notable change to Chevrolet’s iconic C3 Corvette. The chrome rear bumper, which had been one of the badge’s defining design features, had made way for a heavier unit with a urethane cover to comply with legislative requirements. It changed the entire appearance of the car’s rear, but I have never found the new look unattractive. Chevrolet offered buyers a choice of ten paint shades on that year’s color palette, with this car’s first owner selecting Dark Brown Metallic. The seller claims that this beauty wears most of its original paint, although they don’t specify which areas may have received any form of remedial work. The exterior holds a healthy shine, and there are no visible paint or fiberglass issues. The overall condition makes it unsurprising that this Corvette holds two NCRS Second Flight Awards, reflecting its overall condition and unmolested state. The glass is free from apparent defects, as are the Rally wheels.

Tilting forward the hood reveals this Corvette’s numbers-matching 350ci V8. The first owner teamed this motor with a three-speed automatic transmission and power assistance for the steering and brakes. They ticked the box beside the L82 option, allowing the small-block to deliver 250hp and 285 ft/lbs of torque. Interestingly, the L82 proved a more popular choice than the 454ci big-block, even though it was more expensive. Perhaps it was a psychological decision, with the smaller engine potentially promising a winning combination of performance and better fuel economy. The seller states that this classic has a genuine 53,000 miles on the clock, although they don’t mention verifying evidence. However, with documentation including the original Window Sticker, Dealer Invoice, Delivery Inspection, Owner’s Manual, Warranty Book, maintenance receipts, and other paperwork, I won’t be surprised if the reading can be confirmed. It appears that this is a turnkey proposition with no mechanical needs or shortcomings.

Although it isn’t loaded to the max, the first owner equipped this Corvette with some desirable interior options. These include air conditioning, Tan leather trim, a tilt/telescopic wheel, and an AM/FM radio. There are no visible aftermarket additions, and the overall presentation is consistent with a survivor-grade vehicle that has been treated respectfully. The leather looks excellent, with no evidence of wear on the outer seat edges. The carpet is clean, the dash is in great condition, and there is no evidence of broken or crumbling plastic.

Emission regulations and the oil crisis may have forced many buyers to focus on more efficient vehicles to park in their garages, but that didn’t prevent the 1974 Corvette from selling in healthy numbers. It was the first choice for 37,502 buyers, falling only 960 vehicles short of the 1969 record. The affection enthusiasts felt for the C3 Corvette is reflected in the fact that the tally would continue to climb throughout the 1970s. This ‘Vette is a beauty, and while it has only been on the market a short time, its condition and originality could mean that it will find a new home fairly quickly. Do you agree?