1973 Chevrolet (C3) Corvette T-Top Coupe / Factory (CWM code) 454 / 4-speed
The 1973 C3 Chevrolet Corvette, while it wasnt the most popular of Corvettes by any means, it did have some firsts. Starting with the most noticeable, it was the first "Rubber Bumper" Vette. The front chrome bumper was replaced with a federally mandated 5 MPH bumper. It added 35 pounds to the car and changed it's looks significantly. The 1973 is the only year that had a rubber front bumper and chrome rear bumper! This was also the last year for the small spoiler in the rear. A new hood was also introduced that featured cold air induction. The new ducts on the sides behind the front wheels were non-trimmed and consist of just one large hole and some body styling. It was the first year for radial tires on a Vette. Increased sound insulation was added to make the ride more comfortable. The rear window of the Coupe was now fixed because of excessive turbulence with the T-tops off.
As for this Corvette, there are some special notables as well. The engine is a matching numbers 454ci mated to its original Muncie M21 4 speed close ratio transmission (CWM code). The 275 horsepower rating was no powerhouse compared to the monsters of the late 60s Vettes but this 454ci 275hp high output version known as the LS4 held its own on the roads of the day and was superior to any other Vette in '73. The LS4 came equipped with a high performance cam shaft and 3.70 gears.
There is not much as far as paperwork but one thing for sure, the original tank sticker is still in on the tank !!!
This Corvette is a very original example with no modifications to its power plant throughout its 46 year history. It has its original engine and drive train as well as its original Rochester QuadraJet 4bbl carburetor. 30,464 Corvettes were built in 1973 yet only 4412 were ordered with this 454ci / 275hp engine option and only 3704 had the M21 close ratio 4-speed. With just 70,XXX miles and the proper maintenance its been given, this Vette runs beautifully, starts easily with no road issues at all.
It is nicely optioned with power windows, power drum brakes, air conditioning, am-fm cassette player, tilt & telescopic steering wheel and more. All gauges and lights work properly and she passes a NYS safety inspection every year.
The Vette has been under the same ownership for the past 15 years. Prior to his ownership, the car had a color change from its original Elkhart Green to a lighter shade of Chevy Green called Medium Green. The nose was scraped pulling into the garage as shown in the photos. With all said and done, this is an excellent entry level C3 Corvette and more.... She looks and runs great, has all the right stuff and wont break the bank. Call or email and lets talk Corvette!
