The mid-1970s marked a shift for American sports cars, with styling and emissions rules shaping how Corvettes were built and marketed. Looking at a single model year gives a clear snapshot of those changes and the options buyers faced.
There are 7 1974 Corvette Car Models, ranging from Corvette (Z07 Package) to Corvette Coupe (LS4). For each model you’ll find below data organized by Body style,Engine (hp),Production (units) so you can compare trims, power output and rarity at a glance — you’ll find below.
How much difference do the engine options make across the 1974 Corvette models?
Engine choices in 1974 affect acceleration, cruising character and resale value; the Engine (hp) column shows the relative outputs while Body style and Production (units) give context on how common each setup was. Expect noticeable but era-limited performance gaps due to emissions tuning, so use the three columns together to judge which model matches your priorities.
Which 1974 Corvette should I consider if I want a practical balance of power and collectibility?
Look for models with mid-to-upper Engine (hp) figures and moderate Production (units) — they tend to offer usable performance without extreme rarity-driven prices. Also factor in Body style preferences and the car’s documented condition and options when choosing from the list below.
1974 Corvette Car Models
| Model | Body style | Engine (hp) | Production (units) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corvette Coupe (L48) | Coupe | 350 ci, 195 hp | 23,479 |
| Corvette Convertible (L48) | Convertible | 350 ci, 195 hp | 3,839 |
| Corvette Coupe (L82) | Coupe | 350 ci, 250 hp | 5,505 |
| Corvette Convertible (L82) | Convertible | 350 ci, 250 hp | 1,185 |
| Corvette Coupe (LS4) | Coupe | 454 ci, 270 hp | 3,044 |
| Corvette Convertible (LS4) | Convertible | 454 ci, 270 hp | 450 |
| Corvette (Z07 Package) | Coupe or Convertible | Required L82 or LS4 engine | 47 |
Images and Descriptions
Corvette Coupe (L48)
The most common 1974 Corvette, this model featured the standard L48 V8 and T-top roof. It’s notable for its new seamless urethane rear bumper, which matched the front bumper introduced a year earlier, creating a clean, modern look for its time.
Corvette Convertible (L48)
This was the final year for the C3 convertible until 1986, making it a historically significant model. The standard L48 convertible was the most popular open-top version, representing an affordable entry into end-of-an-era, open-air Corvette driving.
Corvette Coupe (L82)
For buyers seeking more performance, the L82 option offered a significant power boost over the base engine. It featured a higher-lift camshaft, forged crankshaft, and better heads, making it the top small-block performance choice for the serious enthusiast.
Corvette Convertible (L82)
A desirable and fairly rare combination, this model paired the L82 performance V8 with the last C3 convertible body. These are sought after by collectors for offering both open-air style and enhanced small-block power in a landmark production year.
Corvette Coupe (LS4)
The king of the 1974 lineup, the LS4 big-block delivered massive torque and was the most powerful factory engine offered. This was the final year a 454 V8 was available in a Corvette, marking the end of the classic muscle-era big-block engine.
Corvette Convertible (LS4)
The rarest and most potent 1974 Corvette, this model combined the mighty LS4 454 big-block with the final-year convertible body. It is a true “holy grail” for C3 collectors, representing the pinnacle of ’70s factory open-air performance.
Corvette (Z07 Package)
Not a model but an extremely rare factory option, the Z07 package included heavy-duty brakes and special sport suspension. Created for autocross and racing, finding a genuine Z07 is a challenge, making it one of the most desirable variants for collectors.
