Vehicle Description
Chances to own a sought-after, classic convertible Corvette in any
semblance of decent condition are pretty rare. Factor in a
numbers-matching, powerful big block engine rebuilt only a few
thousand miles ago, as well as a number of other pivotal rebuilt
parts, and the opportunity becomes even more scarce. But that's
just what we have here with this 1971 Chevrolet Corvette 454
convertible.
The early '70s was a great era for Corvettes. Chevy had begun to
add some inspired touches to the exterior, including more
pronounced fender flares and body curvature from front to back, to
go along with the signature hidden headlights that had become
synonymous with the model. And if you're going to change the color
from its original Brands Hatch Green, why not go all out with
Guards Red! The hue on this '71 shows off that style to perfection,
benefitting from a nice even clearcoat that gives it a lot of depth
and shine. The Corvette convertible exemplifies the open-air muscle
car experience and you can picture just how much fun it would be to
hit the highway in this very powerful and road-ready drop-top with
nothing but blue sky above you, but on those occasions when the
weather isn't quite cooperating, the manual convertible top is in
good shape and stands at the ready to protect you from the
elements. This is one of those rare classic convertibles that
doesn't lose its visual impact with the top up and its tan shade
complements the exterior perfectly.
Open up a contoured door and slip into the driver's seat and you'll
see an interior that's sporting the original saddle color this
Vette began life with and also happens to be one of the coolest of
the era. The high-backed bucket seats are in great condition, as is
the center console between them - angled to put the floor shifter
within very easy reach. To each side you'll find door panels that
are nearly new and sit snug and flush to the steel that surrounds
them, while just in front of you, beyond the stock Corvette
steering wheel that sits atop a tilting and telescoping column, is
a truly impressive array of instrumentation - a bevy of
aeronautically-inspired gauges that extends all the way down to the
center console, all still very readable and looking right back at
you through clear lenses. A heat shield has been installed
underneath the tan carpeting that sits below, so you've got
protection from the heat of the asphalt, which so often makes its
presence felt with vintage cars.
The big block 454 engine you'll find underneath the signature long,
sloping Corvette hood stands as testimony to the adage: "there's no
replacement for displacement." Rebuilt just a few thousand miles
ago and paired with Chevy's 3 speed TH400 automatic transmission,
it's in fine form, churning out 365 horsepower and sounding
outstanding as it exhales through the set of aftermarket long-tube
headers. A great added touch is the Steeroids power rack and pinion
kit - it eliminates the customary play you find in the steering
boxes used in this era and allows this 'Vette to reach its full
handling potential. The recently rebuilt power disc brakes you'll
find on all four corners will provide the stopping power you'd need
when the situation warrants. This eye-catching, open air classic
sits with a low and level stock stance on a set of 15" stock
Corvette rims, wrapped in BF Goodrich T/A radials.
In the market for a great-looking, numbers matching vintage
drop-top, decked out in an outstanding color combination and
sporting serious big block power? You have to check out this 1971
Chevrolet Corvette 454 convertible. Call today!