In 1970, during the era when powerful muscle cars ruled the streets without any knowledge of their impending extinction, General Motors took a bold move by introducing the 454-cubic-inch V8 (7.4 liters) engine. Chevrolet was granted permission to utilize this massive engine, and they fully embraced its power without hesitation.
Between 1970 and 1975, the 454 V8 engine underwent three different versions: the LS5 and LS6 were the initial releases, followed by the LS4 in 1973. Unfortunately, the Corvette, which had enjoyed the dominance of these legendary powerhouses, saw their presence diminish as stricter pollution regulations forced Chevrolet to phase out the 7.4-liter engines from their passenger cars. Surprisingly, the Corvette received its last big-block 454 engine in 1974.
In less than a decade, the Corvette went from the mighty naval cannon-like L-88 V8 engine from 1967-1969 to only offering smaller, more efficient engines. While the signature 350-cubic-inch (5.7 liters) engine introduced in 1967 was no slouch, it was disheartening to see other Chevrolet models continue with the 454 for an additional year. Trucks, on the other hand, were fortunate enough to enjoy the big-block engine for another 15 years in pickups and heavy-duty trucks.
Out of the 3,494 Corvettes equipped with the 454 engine in 1974, one has managed to survive to this day, complete with its original drivetrain. However, the 700-pound (approximately 320 kilograms) V8 engine has been removed from the car for some time. The current owner purchased the coupe in the early 1980s and has kept it in storage ever since. While it is unclear when the engine was taken out or the reason behind it, the owner does mention that the engine was still operational.
It can be assumed that the car was intended for restoration, as the owner has carefully stored and labeled the parts. However, this is merely speculation. The car has accumulated 72,046 miles (115,922 kilometers) on its original four-speed manual transmission. The original wheels, radio, and emissions-reducing equipment are no longer present, and the car’s bumpers have succumbed to the effects of time.
Starting in 1974, the iconic chrome bumpers that Corvette enthusiasts admired became a thing of the past. The transition began in 1973 when the front bumper was made from urethane. The following year, the rear bumper also adopted this material. Specifically, the bumper covers were no longer made of metal but were instead tapered urethane, color-matched to the body. The actual impact bar, concealed behind elastic trim pieces and mounted on two slider brackets, was constructed from aluminum.
For unknown reasons, the urethane material on this particular Corvette from Brick Township, New Jersey has deteriorated over time. However, aside from this flaw, the car appears to be in excellent condition. The car was equipped with air conditioning, power windows, and power steering, all of which were costly additions to the base price of $6,001.50. The owner describes the car as fully loaded and emphasizes the excellent condition of the frame and birdcage. The asking price for the car is $6,400, but the owner is willing to consider the best offer from a serious buyer.
According to the Source autoevolution.com