March 3rd, 2021 Chris Phillip

Entering the 1970s, manufacturers were churning out menacing machines in droves featuring high-performance engine, transmission, and rear end combinations. Based on the Mako Shark II concept car, the Chevrolet Corvette was completely redesigned for 1968. Displaying a long nose, high-arching fenders, and curvaceous profile, this generation (known as the C3) was produced through the 1982 model year.

The 1970 LT1 Corvette represented yet another benchmark for Chevrolet, packing a 350 cubic-inch mill doling out (an underrated) 370 horsepower. Featuring 11:1 compression, 4-bolt mains, a forged crankshaft, and a solid lifter cam, this combination gave the big block cars a run for their money at the dragstrip and outmaneuvered them on the road course due to the LT1’s lighter weight.

Small block Chevrolet engines love to bury the tach needle, and the LT1 350 is no exception, making peak power at 6,000 rpm. Topped with an aluminum high-rise intake manifold and a large Holley carburetor, the 1970 LT1 Corvettes were built with performance driving in mind, and could not be ordered with air conditioning.

The following year, in 1971, the compression ratio was lowered to 9:1 for use with unleaded gasoline, and power output dropped to 330 horsepower.

Only 1,287 LT1 Corvettes were produced in 1970, making them highly collectable, and they routinely fetch six figures at auction. Many experts agree that the 1970 LT1 Corvette will soon be as coveted as some of the iconic models from the 1950s and 1960s.

Story by David Bonaskiewich