The low-production, competition-intended 427 CI L88 Corvette might have been discontinued after 1969, but Chevrolet wasn’t done producing virtually race-ready cars just yet. In 1970, the new RPO (Regular Production Option) ZR1 was available for the Corvette. A lighter-weight, track-focused Corvette, the ZR1 was powered by Chevrolet’s hot new 350/370 HP LT1 engine. Sharpened reflexes were delivered with weight-adding, power- robbing features and options were unavailable, including A31 Power Windows, the C50 Rear Window Defroster, C60 Air Conditioning, N40 Power Steering, P02 Deluxe Wheel Covers, the UA6 Alarm System and U69 or U79 radios. What was included in the comprehensive $968.95 ZR1 package ($1,010.05 by 1972), however, was the aforementioned solid- lifter LT1 V-8 engine, an M22 “Rock Crusher” close-ratio 4-speed manual transmission, heavy-duty power brakes, transistorized ignition, a special aluminum radiator with metal fan shroud, and special springs, shocks and front and rear stabilizer bars. Just 25 of these very special performers were produced for 1970, followed by eight small-block ZR1s and 12 big-block ZR2 Corvettes for 1971, plus a final run of 20 ZR1s in 1972. Just 1,287 of 17,316 Corvettes left the factory with the $447.60 LT1 option for 1972, plus the 25 special, “off road” ZR1s. Powered by the potent LT1 350/370 HP LT1 V-8 engine, paired with a 4-speed manual transmission, this NCRS Top Flight Award-winning 1970 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Coupe features a striking Corvette Bronze exterior finish and T-tops. The black interior includes bucket seats and a center console. Chrome bumpers, dual exhaust and 1970 California plates finish it off. One of only 25 Corvettes produced in 1970 with the ZR1 Special Purpose Engine Package, this extremely rare and collectible, race-intended 1970 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Coupe has been part of a private collection for more than 25 years.
