Built from 1967 to 1982, the third-generation Chevrolet Corvette stands as the lengthiest era in the Corvette lineage. Despite spending most of its existence in the Malaise era, its roots trace back to the golden age of muscle cars, giving birth to several remarkable machines.
From day one, the third-gen Corvette boasted a big-block V8, delivering over 400 horsepower. In 1969, Chevrolet unveiled the ZL1, equipped with an aluminum 427-cubic-inch engine producing 430 horsepower. With only three units in existence, these cars now command a value exceeding $3 million each as of 2023.
The ZL1 package didn’t persist beyond 1969, but Chevrolet introduced two ZR models in the early 1970s. The ZR1 featured a small-block V8 with 370 horsepower, paired with enhanced features like a heavy-duty gearbox, aluminum radiator, and a unique suspension setup. Sold as a competition-spec model, it lacked amenities such as power windows, power steering, and air conditioning. The ZR1 was succeeded by the ZR2 in 1971, boasting a massive 454-cubic-inch LS6 engine.
While not as scarce as the ZL1, the ZR models were still rare. The ZR2 saw only 12 units produced in 1971, while the ZR1 found 53 buyers from 1970 to 1972. The featured Pewter Silver coupe, one of only 20 ZR1s from 1972, is currently up for auction.
This particular ZR1 underwent a meticulous frame-off, nut-and-bolt restoration, costing a staggering $150,000—more than a modern Corvette C8 Z06. Finished in the correct Pewter Silver exterior and retaining the scarce Saddle Tan interior, this ‘Vette is a rarity, with Chevrolet selling only 1,372 silver Corvettes in 1972, comprising just 5% of the total production.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this Corvette maintains its numbers-matching 350-cubic-inch LT1 V8 and M22 four-speed manual gearbox. With a mere 24,604 actual miles, it stands as a low-mileage example. It holds Bloomington Gold certification, winning multiple awards post-restoration, and is accompanied by extensive documentation.
Set to go under the hammer at Mecum’s Kissimmee event in January 2024, the auction house estimates its value between $225,000 and $275,000—reflecting a substantial profit over the restoration costs.
# FAQs
## FAQ 1: What distinguished the third-gen Corvette?
The third-gen Corvette, built from 1967 to 1982, is renowned for its status as the longest-running iteration of the nameplate and its association with the golden era of muscle cars.
## FAQ 2: What were the key features of the ZR1 model?
The ZR1 model featured a small-block V8 with 370 horsepower, a heavy-duty gearbox, aluminum radiator, and a unique suspension setup. Sold as a competition-spec model, it lacked certain amenities for a focus on performance.
## FAQ 3: How rare are the ZR twins?
Both ZR1 and ZR2 models were rare, with only 53 ZR1 units produced from 1970 to 1972 and 12 ZR2 units in 1971. The Pewter Silver coupe featured here is one of just 20 ZR1s built in 1972.
## FAQ 4: What sets this ZR1 apart?
Beyond its rarity, this ZR1 underwent a $150,000 restoration, retains its original specifications, boasts a unique color combination, and holds Bloomington Gold certification. It’s also accompanied by extensive documentation.
## FAQ 5: How much is the ZR1 expected to fetch at auction?
The auction house estimates the value of this ZR1 to be between $225,000 and $275,000.
