Vehicle Description
With its original big block still residing in the engine bay, and
its original color still gracing its timeless form, this 1971
Chevrolet Corvette represents a rare chance to own a fine example
of a true American sports car that's been extensively restored and
greets the present day in top shape - looking and running great. It
will arrive at its new home with an assortment of restoration
photos in tow to document the precision and craftsmanship leading
to its reascension to its current stellar form.
Over the years, there have been countless examples of concept cars
debuting to rave reviews, only to lead to production versions that
bear only a passing resemblance to their inspirations. Not so here.
Chevy debuted the Mako Shark on the Auto Show circuit in 1965, and
the Manta Ray just a few years later - both as futuristic but fully
functional concept cars that would go on to very directly influence
the C3 Corvettes to follow, including this '71. Its original
Bridgehampton Blue color has an unmistakably strong shine and
finishing details that are so important on a classic all present
well here, including table straight and blemish free front and rear
bumpers, fresh-looking seals and chrome trim, and sharp badging.
The T-top configuration is a great plus, affording the option of
open air motoring with an easy transition to a more sheltered
driving environment when the weather dictates, and the T-tops on
this 'Vette are in very nice shape, still fitting snugly and
looking good.
Early '70s Corvettes featured inspired driver-centric interiors
that balanced comfort and functionality exceptionally well, and
this particular interior, professionally refurbished only 5 years
ago, is looking just as inviting as it did when this 'Vette rolled
out more than 45 years ago. A pair of race-inspired bucket seats
look great as they straddle a well-placed center console that
offers a padded armrest at just the right height - a fairly
uncommon amenity at the time. Up front, the bevy of controls
monitoring motoring functions sports an aeronautically styled
theme, with the two dominant gauges behind the steering wheel
joined by five more residing in the center, just above the AM/FM
radio. There's a nice array of features on board here, including
factory air that blows strong and cold through the in-dash
registers, power windows, and a steering column that both tilts and
telescopes to put the wheel in just the right position for drivers
of all sizes.
Big block power is well-represented underneath the lengthy hood in
the form of a 454 cubic inch LS5 V8. It's good for a full 365
horsepower and, having undergone a thorough rebuild only about
1,000 miles ago, it's performing at its best, ready to provide
miles and miles of driving adventure. It's paired with a 3-speed
automatic TH400 transmission that shifts with confidence-inspiring
certainty. Combine the Corvette's low-profile, road-hugging stance
with its well-engineered suspension, smooth power steering and
4-wheel power disc brakes and you have a great handling classic
that can also stop in impressively short order when needed. This
seminal Chevy classic sits on a set of 15" stock Corvette wheels
carrying BF Goodrich T/A radials.
Featuring a great looking exterior - certainly a high-water mark
for Chevy as far as style is concerned - and a fresh, road-ready
drivetrain, this 1971 Chevrolet Corvette would be a great
acquisition for the classic car enthusiast looking for open-air
excitement and big block power. Call today!