265, 283, 305, 327, 350, 396, 427, 454….Virtually all Corvette C1-C3 enthusiasts know that these are the cubic inch displacements of V8 Vette engines. Most Corvette enthusiasts know that the Vette’s first “big block” was the 396 and it debuted in 1965. A lot of Corvette enthusiasts know that vehicles with L88/L89 427s or LS6 454s can bring hundreds of thousands of dollars (L88s can actually bring over $1,000,000 in some cases). All three of these engines produce 430+ rated horsepower. Actual output was higher. The bottom line, more horsepower generally equates to higher values.

1974 was the last year for a “big block” V8 engine and no catalytic converters in the Corvette model. ‘74 454 cubic inch V8 equipped Vettes weren’t surpassed in horsepower output until the ZR1 debuted in 1990. This particular car came from the factory as a red on saddle (dark tan) leather interior 454 equipped convertible.

502 is also a well known number by many car people. GM has been offering the high performance big block 502 cubic inch V8 crate motor for years. This Vette’s previous owner, who was a very successful attorney and serious car collector, upgraded it to the 502/440 horsepower engine shortly after it was introduced by GM. He didn’t stop there. He threw a high performance 850 CFM Holley double pumper carb (that was race modified and blueprinted by Carburetor Specialty Service) on top, Hooker headers on each side and a Griffin radiator in front of it. The result is a 465+ horsepower BEAST that doesn’t run too hot.

It came from the factory with a three speed TH400 automatic transmission. It’s now equipped with a high performance four speed 4L60 that was purchased new directly from GM’s Performance Parts Division. It was upgraded by Phoenix Transmissions in order to ensure it could handle all of the 502’s power. The positraction rear end was also rebuilt to ensure the entire driveline would be worry free.

Additional features include: upgraded cowl hood, new mag wheels (1979 style), new slightly larger than stock tires, new true dual exhaust system, new stainless steel brakes, new rear axles, new shocks and other suspension parts, new alternator, upgraded MSD ignition, 1979 style leather seats, new windshield post covers, new side mirrors, new convertible top, new console/armrest, new door panels and storage liners. It’s also equipped with power steering, power brakes and air conditioning.

This all adds up to well over $30,000 worth of tasteful upgrades. More importantly, this Corvette was built right. The modifications equate to the ultimate combination of looks, performance and collectibility. It also sounds great, but isn’t so loud that you can’t comfortably drop the top and cruise around town. Only a couple thousand miles have been put on it since the work was finalized. The paint is in good overall condition (it was repainted a few years ago and only has a few blemishes).

The original hood and seats are on hand and will go with the car if the new owner wants them. I also have a rebuilt period correct 454 V8 available for sale if you’d like to go back to that engine.