Awesome 1974 Corvette in great colors. Numbers on L82 engine and transmission match VIN. Recent paint in original Mille Miglia Red with newer interior. New top. Runs and drives very well. An affordable red Corvette convertible-what could be better for summertime fun?
Mid-70s Corvettes are coming on strong as values of their older siblings skyrocket, making this a great time to get into this 1974 Chevrolet Corvette convertible. 1974 was the first year for the urethane bumpers front and rear, giving the car a cohesive look that many find quite appealing. And thanks to a recent repaint in the original code 76 Mille Miglia Red, it looks spectacular. Finish quality is excellent, with a deep shine that is worlds better than whatever GM was doing in 1974 and we can find no evidence of previous accident damage or fiberglass repairs underneath-this sucker is straight! Its a deep, rich red, not orangey, and suits the swoopy Corvette shape rather well. Even gaps all around suggest they took their time to get it right. Chrome bumpers were gone, but that doesnt mean theres no brightwork, as the optional luggage rack, anodized rocker panels, and stainless windshield surround add some contrast. Correct Stingray emblems were installed as needed and yes, the headlights pop up with vigor and dont show any of the usual cracks around their openings. Its worth noting that 1974 was the only year for the 2-piece rear bumper, so that split down the middle is 100% correct, no worries there. From any angle, this Corvette looks the part of Americas favorite 2-seater.
The black interior was restored along with the bodywork, featuring new seat covers, fresh carpets, and restored door panels. The woodgrained appliques are bright and crisp and it appears that most of the weather seals were replaced. It appears that the three-spoke steering wheel is original, as are the gauges, and we believe the mileage shown on the odometer is an accurate reading. All the gauges work except the clock, and the original AM/FM stereo radio sounds good. Theres also an aftermarket power antenna that uses a pair of toggle switches under the dash. Notable other options include a tilt/telescope steering column, factory A/C (still R12 so we are unable to charge it to verify operation), and an unusual rear window defogger that still works. Thats kind of cool. Overhead theres a recent black convertible top with a clear rear window, and with a little practice it stows in seconds under the rear deck. Theres also a bit of storage space behind the seats for a weekend trip.
The engine is a 350 cubic inch L82 V8 which carries a stamping pad that matches the cars VIN. It also has a correct CLD suffix code, which is a 1974 L82 for an automatic transmission. The L82 was the top small block in 1974 and while it isnt a smoking big block, it delivers a wonderful punch of low-end torque and should be durable enough to outlast us all. Its nicely refinished in correct Chevy Orange engine enamel with finned valve covers, and even the chrome ignition shields are still in place. Theres evidence of recent work, including fresh belts and hoses, a big new aluminum radiator up front, and a recent master cylinder. It starts easily, idles nice, and makes the kind of V8 engine noises that are part of why owning a Corvette convertible is so awesome. Corvettes with automatic transmissions all used the TH400 3-speed unit thats probably the best, most durable automatic ever created, and this one also carries a stamping that matches the VIN. The undercarriage is quite clean with no signs of accident damage or corrosion issues in the usual areas ahead of the rear wheels or in the birdcage area. Theres more recent equipment underneath, including the power steering unit and shocks, so it drives rather well. The only possible issue is a small hole in the battery box area where a battery may have leaked at some point in the past, but it isnt critical to the cars health. Theres a full-sized spare stowed underneath, and it sits on correct Rally wheels and 225/70/15 performance radials.
Documentation includes a factory owners manual.
These Corvettes are reliable, easy to maintain, and a lot of fun to own. Youll be the center of attention every time you stop for gas and everyone respects Chevys plastic fantastic. With a lot of recent work, a great pedigree, and a wonderful look, this Corvette convertible is a great choice for summertime fun. Call today!
Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to purchase.
