The Corvette was one of a long list of cars that suffered under the tyranny of tighter emission regulations as the 1970s progressed. The owner of this 1974 model acknowledges that, describing it as a reliable sports car. It presents well for a driver-grade classic, and a couple of custom tweaks set it apart. The seller has been its custodian for twelve years but feels that the time is right for it to find a new home by listing it here on Craigslist in Summit, New Jersey. They set their price at $16,950 and will not entertain low-ball offers. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting this classic Corvette.
This Classic White Corvette presents well as a driver-grade vehicle. The seller admits the paint wears a few marks and chips, but nothing demands immediate attention. It might benefit from a future repaint, but that could happen when (or if) the new owner deems it necessary. However, there is no shame associated with preserving the car in its current form. The fiberglass is free from cracks, and the seller’s decision to keep it garaged and away from adverse weather conditions means there are no rust issues with the frame or birdcage. The body features a couple of custom touches, and the new owner could decide whether or not to retain them. The seller fitted an aftermarket turbo hood that added extra gills and scoops. It is not the worst of its type I have seen, but the seller includes the original for those wishing to reverse the change. The ‘Vette also features a “Moonroof” T-Top, a cool item with tinted glass inserts. They provide a magazine advertisement for the Mooroof, and it might be worth retaining if detective work confirms it is a rare item. The chrome and Rally wheels are in good order, and while the windshield has a wiper rub, the remaining glass is excellent.
You only needed to examine the specifications to understand how dramatically the new emission regulations had impacted the Corvette’s power and performance. The entry-level ZQ3 version of the 350ci V8 provided in the 1970 model placed 300hp and 380 ft/lbs of torque at the driver’s disposal. This car’s L48 small-block should produce 195hp and 275 ft/lbs. That seems ample justification for the seller to describe this classic as “a good reliable sports car” rather than a muscle car. That is the extent of the negative news because this gem is numbers-matching. Its V8 is paired with a four-speed manual transmission, with the original owner selecting power assistance for the steering and brakes. The seller quotes a long list of parts replaced during their ownership, which should combine to make this a reliable vehicle. The entire braking system, including every hose and pipe, is new. The same is true of the exhaust and aluminum radiator. The buyer won’t need to splash a dime beyond the purchase price because it appears this Corvette runs and drives perfectly.
I always look at cars like this Corvette and wonder when we will chance upon a really bad point. That honor won’t fall to its interior because it is very tidy for a driver-grade classic. The seats feature new Saddle leather seatcovers and foam, while the remaining upholstered surfaces, dash, console, and plastic components are excellent. The carpet might be starting to fade, but the lack of wear means replacement is unnecessary. I can’t tell whether it retains its original radio, but the new owner will welcome the ice-cold air conditioning and power windows.
The seller admits this 1974 Corvette isn’t a show car. It appears to be a tidy driver with no needs beyond a new owner. Reversing its custom touches would be easy and inexpensive, but they would undoubtedly attract attention and comments at a Cars & Coffee. I would probably swap the hood if it were in my garage, but I’d retain the T-top for its novelty value. Do you agree?
The power loss is not as bad as it seems. Between 1970 and 1974 the auto makers had to switch from SAE gross to SAE net power figures. The gross figures were measured with an intake air temp of 70 degrees, and no accessories, no drive belts at all. The net figures had all the accessories except AC driven, and a higher intake air temp. Instant 20% drop in HP without any tuning changes.
Plus, they put different camshafts in them, retarded the ignition, stuck a catalytic converter on them, etc. These were slugs, compared to earlier models.
No catalytic converter on the 74. It was the 75 model that got all choked up.
Looking at the hood, I can only conclude, “The Durango 95 purred away real horror show”……
I think this would be the perfect “first Corvette” for somebody wanting to get onto this hobby. 1974 may not have the desirable chrome bumpers, but you won’t see them anyway when you are behind the wheel. With over 100k miles on the car it will need some love, but you will be rewarded with a fun, great driving car.
And as such it should be priced as a “first Corvette” $16,950 ask indicates another owner who believes he has the Golden Ticket in his garage. The market will decide.