The 1970s reshaped the Corvette as emissions rules, safety changes, and shifting buyer tastes nudged Detroit toward new engineering and styling choices. These years tell a story of performance being balanced with regulation, and of collectors now tracing how each model year adapted.
There are 10 1970s Corvette Car Models, ranging from 1970 Corvette to 1979 Corvette. For each model the list shows Body style, Engine options, Production (units), and key notes—you’ll find below.
How do the 1970s Corvette models differ across body styles and engines?
Across the decade, Corvettes moved from higher-output big-block options early on toward detuned engines later in the 1970s; convertible and coupe variants persisted but with changing trim and safety features. The Body style and Engine options columns make it easy to compare which years offered small‑block vs big‑block engines, optional performance packages, and how production numbers shifted as regulations affected output.
What should I check when researching or buying a 1970s Corvette?
Look for matching numbers (engine/transmission vs VIN), rust in common areas (frame rails, floors, rockers), documented production figures to confirm rarity, and option codes that affect value; the Production (units) column helps prioritize which years/options are scarce and worth deeper inspection.
1970s Corvette Car Models
| Model | Body style | Engine options | Production (units) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1970 Corvette | Coupe (T-top), Convertible | 350ci small-block (incl. LT-1), 454ci big-block (LS5) | 53,807 |
| 1971 Corvette | Coupe (T-top), Convertible | 350ci small-blocks, 402/454ci big-blocks (various tunes) | 52,165 |
| 1972 Corvette | Coupe (T-top), Convertible | 350ci small-block (various), 454ci big-block last-year offerings | 25,598 |
| 1973 Corvette | Coupe (T-top) | 350ci small-blocks (L48, others), big-block availability reduced | 20,564 |
| 1974 Corvette | Coupe (T-top) | 350ci small-blocks (L48 primarily), reduced-output options | 18,807 |
| 1975 Corvette | Coupe (T-top) | 350ci small-block (single major option), big-block phased out | 6,807 |
| 1976 Corvette | Coupe (T-top) | 350ci small-blocks (improved tune options), optional performance packages | 46,693 |
| 1977 Corvette | Coupe (T-top) | 350ci small-blocks (L48, L82 later), performance and luxury options | 45,660 |
| 1978 Corvette (25th Anniversary) | Coupe (T-top), Convertible | 350ci small-blocks (L48, L82 options), special 25th-anniversary package | 46,752 |
| 1979 Corvette | Coupe (T-top) | 350ci small-blocks (multiple tunes), optional performance packages | 53,807 |
Images and Descriptions
1970 Corvette
The last high-performance early C3 year featuring the prized LT-1 small-block and 454 big-blocks. Convertibles were still offered; LT-1 and big-block cars are highly collectible today for performance and rarity.
1971 Corvette
Minor styling updates and emission-driven detuning marked 1971. Big-blocks were still available; convertibles remain desirable. Early 1970s engines and original-condition cars attract collectors seeking big-block performance.
1972 Corvette
Last year before larger safety/emission changes reduced power; convertibles still produced. 1972s are collectible for late-era big-block examples and original convertible survivors, though values vary by engine and condition.
1973 Corvette
Urethane front bumper introduced along with emissions reductions; convertibles discontinued after 1972. 1973s are less powerful but notable for styling changes; well-preserved examples gain interest from era specialists.
1974 Corvette
Mid-decade detuning continued and catalytic converters appeared later; styling carried over with safety tweaks. Collectibility centers on low-mileage survivors and the rarer high-option cars from a low-output era.
1975 Corvette
1975 saw the end of big-block availability and very low production compared with earlier years. Its rarity makes intact, well-documented 1975 Corvettes increasingly interesting to collectors despite modest performance.
1976 Corvette
A sales rebound year with revised emission tuning and option packages. 1976 achieved stronger production and is noted for solid handling; rare options and documented survivors are sought after.
1977 Corvette
Steady C3 production with growing option catalogs including higher-output small-blocks (L82). 1977s are popular for restoration projects and buyers seeking classic C3 style with improved amenities.
1978 Corvette (25th Anniversary)
Celebratory 25th Anniversary and Pace Car replicas brought new attention; distinctive graphics and limited special editions boost collectibility, especially original Pace Car and anniversary-package cars.
1979 Corvette
Last C3 of the decade with evolving option choices and improved drivability. 1979s are common but desirable when equipped with factory performance packages or original low-mileage documentation.
