In 1970, Chevrolet increased the Corvette’s significant block displacement from 427 to 454 cubic inches, but peak power dropped from 435 to 390 horsepower. For enthusiasts seeking superior all-around performance, the answer arrived in the form of the small-block-powered ZR1.
Essentially a street-legal race car, the ZR1 featured the high-revving LT1 350 CI V8, conservatively rated at 370 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. This engine featured a forged rotating assembly, 11.0:1 compression ratio, solid-lifter camshaft, free-flowing heads, aluminum intake manifold, and a 780 CFM Holley 4-barrel carburetor.
Supporting components included transistorized ignition, a heavy-duty aluminum radiator with thermostatic fan, and the Muncie M22 “Rock Crusher” 4-speed transmission. The ZR1 also came equipped with heavy-duty brakes, upgraded suspension with specific springs and sway bars, Soft Ray tinted glass, and a Positraction rear axle. Due to its track-focused design, luxury options like a radio, power windows, and air conditioning were unavailable.
Only 25 ZR1 Corvettes were produced in 1970, making this convertible example extremely rare. It underwent a comprehensive five-year, body-off restoration completed in the early 1990s and later earned NCRS Top Flight and Bloomington Gold certification in 2006.
Originally finished in Corvette Bronze, it features a white convertible top, removable hardtop, pop-up headlights, twin grilles, fender vents, quad taillights, and dual rectangular exhausts. The car rides on 15″ Rally wheels with Goodyear Speedway tires and ventilated disc brakes. Inside, it has Saddle vinyl bucket seats and a heater, staying true to its no-frills, performance-first ZR1 philosophy.
This extremely rare Corvette performer is currently available for bidding on Bring a Trailer with 5 days left as of this writing.
Source: Bring a Trailer
