Three-quarters front view of a Blue, 1972, Third generation, Chevrolet Corvette, on display at the 2023 British Motor Show
The third-generation Corvette, patterned after the Mako Shark II concept car, was introduced for the 1968 model year and was in production until 1982. C3 coupes featured the first use of T-top removable roof panels. It introduced monikers that were later revived, such as LT-1, ZR-1, Z07, and Collector Edition. In 1978, Corvette's 25th anniversary was celebrated with a two-tone Silver Anniversary Edition and an Indy Pace Car replica edition of the C3. This was also the first time that a Corvette was used as a Pace Car for the Indianapolis 500.[42] Engines and chassis components were mostly carried over from the C2, but the body and interior were new. The 350 cu in ( L) engine replaced the old 327 cu in ( L) as the base engine in 1969, but power remained at 300 hp (224 kW). 1969 was the only year for a C3 to optionally offer either a factory-installed side exhaust or a normal rear exit with chrome tips. The all-aluminum ZL1 engine was also new for 1969; the special big-block engine was listed at 430 hp (321 kW), but was reported to produce 560 hp (418 kW) and propelled a ZL1 through the 1⁄4 mile ( km) in seconds.[43] There was an extended production run for the 1969 model year due to a lengthy labor strike, which meant sales were down on the 1970 models, to 17,316.[44] 1970 small-block power peaked with the optional high compression, high-revving LT-1 that produced 370 hp (276 kW). The 427 big-block was enlarged to 454 cu in ( L) with a 390 hp (291 kW) rating. The ZR-1 special package was an option available on the 1970 through 1972 model years, and included the LT-1 engine combined with special racing equipment. Only 53 ZR-1's were built.[45] In 1971, to accommodate regular low-lead fuel with lower anti-knock properties, the engine compression ratios were lowered which resulted in reduced power ratings. The power rating for the 350 cu in ( L) L48 base engine decreased from 300 to 270 horsepower and the optional special high-performance LT1
Size: 5616px × 3744px
Location: Farnborough International Expo Centre, Farnborough,
Photo credit: © John Gaffen / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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