The 1970s reshaped American driving: rising fuel prices, new safety rules and shifting tastes pushed Chevrolet to offer everything from family sedans to work-ready trucks. That mix left a varied lineup that appeals to collectors, DIY restorers and people curious about automotive history.
There are 16 1970s Chevy Cars, ranging from the C/K pickup to the Vega. The list is organized into Years in 1970s,Body styles,Notable variants so you can compare production spans, body options and special editions — you’ll find below.
Which 1970s Chevy models are easiest to maintain today?
Pick models with big aftermarket support and common parts: C/K pickups, Nova and Camaro families tend to be straightforward because parts are plentiful and many mechanics know them well. The Vega had known engine and durability issues but still has a following; budget accordingly for repairs.
How can I verify a 1970s Chevy’s originality before buying?
Check the VIN and trim tag against casting numbers on major components, look for consistent patina and documented service history, and compare key features (engine block codes, transmission tags, interior trim) to factory records or trusted reference guides to confirm matching or restored items.
1970s Chevy Cars
| Model | Years in 1970s | Body styles | Notable variants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camaro | 1970–1979 | coupe, convertible | Z/28; RS |
| Corvette | 1970–1979 | coupe, convertible, T-top | Stingray; L82; LT1 |
| Nova | 1970–1979 | coupe, sedan, convertible, wagon | SS; dealer specials |
| Chevelle | 1970–1977 | coupe, sedan, convertible, wagon | SS 396/454; Laguna |
| Malibu | 1978–1979 | coupe, sedan, wagon | LS; Custom |
| Monte Carlo | 1970–1979 | coupe | SS; Landau roof |
| El Camino | 1970–1977 | coupe-pickup | SS 396/454 |
| C/K pickup | 1970–1979 | pickup | Fleetside/Stepside; 4×4 |
| Suburban | 1970–1979 | SUV/wagon | 4×4; long-wheelbase |
| K5 Blazer | 1970–1979 | two-door SUV | 4×4; off-road trims |
| Vega | 1971–1977 | coupe, hatchback, sedan | economy; later performance |
| Monza | 1975–1979 | coupe, hatchback | GT/SS-style trims |
| Chevette | 1976–1979 | hatchback, sedan | economy trims |
| Caprice | 1971–1979 | sedan, coupe, wagon | Classic Luxury; Estate Wagon |
| Impala | 1970–1976 | sedan, coupe, wagon, convertible (early) | Custom trim; higher-displacement options |
| Chevrolet Van (G-Series) | 1970–1979 | van | cargo; passenger; camper conversions |
Images and Descriptions
Camaro
Chevrolet’s pony car through the 1970s, the second-generation Camaro blended style and performance despite tightening emissions. Offered as two-door coupe and convertible, Z/28 and RS trims are most collectible for period muscle-car fans.
Corvette
The C3 Corvette defined 1970s American sports-car styling with dramatic curves and V8 power. Sold as coupe with removable T-tops and early-70s convertibles, higher-performance L82/LT1 and Stingray editions remain prized by collectors.
Nova
The compact Nova was Chevrolet’s affordable, versatile car in the 1970s, sold in multiple body styles. SS performance packages and rare dealer-modified specials make certain early-70s Novas collectible beyond their everyday appeal.
Chevelle
The Chevelle was Chevrolet’s mid-size staple and early-decade muscle platform. SS 396/454 models and sporty Laguna trims are the most sought-after survivors; the Chevelle nameplate ended after 1977 as GM reshaped its midsize lineup.
Malibu
Malibu returned as Chevrolet’s downsized midsize model in 1978, sold as coupe, sedan and station wagon. Known for economical engines and family-friendly packaging, early downsized Malibus are accessible, practical classics for collectors.
Monte Carlo
The Monte Carlo was Chevrolet’s personal-luxury two-door throughout the 1970s, blending comfort with style. Sporty SS versions and distinctive Landau-roof editions are collectible among enthusiasts of period personal-luxury cars.
El Camino
The El Camino combined car-like comfort with pickup utility late into the mid-1970s. While later models emphasized utility, SS-equipped El Caminos with big-block engines remain highly collectible muscle-truck hybrids.
C/K pickup
Chevrolet’s C/K series light trucks (C10/C20) were mainstays of the 1970s, available with Fleetside or Stepside beds and optional four-wheel drive. Clean examples are popular restoration projects and practical classics.
Suburban
The full-size Suburban served families and commercial users with generous seating and cargo capacity. Offered in two- and four-wheel-drive forms, 1970s Suburbans are sought after for restoration and rugged utility use.
K5 Blazer
The K5 Blazer was Chevrolet’s compact full-size off-roader in the 1970s, built for recreation and work. Its removable top, V8 options and 4×4 capability make early Blazers desirable among classic SUV collectors.
Vega
The Vega was Chevrolet’s subcompact aimed at economy buyers, offered in coupe, hatchback and sedan forms. Known for lightweight handling and fuel economy, its reliability reputation complicates collectability but it remains a period oddity.
Monza
The Monza was a sporty compact introduced mid-decade, available as coupe and hatchback with sport-minded trims. Its blend of style and smaller-displacement engines made it a practical, era-appropriate choice during the energy-conscious 1970s.
Chevette
The Chevette arrived in 1976 as Chevrolet’s entry-level subcompact, offering basic, economical transportation. Simple and fuel-efficient, well-preserved late-70s Chevettes appeal to collectors interested in affordable small-car history.
Caprice
The Caprice was Chevrolet’s top full-size luxury offering through much of the 1970s, with roomy interiors and smooth V8 power. Caprices are popular among collectors for their comfortable ride and period luxury appointments.
Impala
The Impala continued as a full-size Chevrolet early in the decade, offering family sedans, coupes and wagons. Early-70s convertibles and higher-trim Custom models are the most collectible examples from this era.
Chevrolet Van (G-Series)
The G-Series Chevrolet van was a workhorse and conversion favorite in the 1970s, sold as cargo and passenger models often fitted as campers. Vintage vans are restored for practical use and custom camper projects.
