‘71 LS5 Coupe: Modified Engine and Transmission
A mostly original early C3 with some performance upgrades
I’m all about originality and have never bought a Corvette that wasn’t completely stock. But not everybody shares my view, and for somebody who wants raw performance resulting from modifications somebody has already implemented, this early C3 could be an interesting proposition.
This ‘71 t-top coupe was originally ordered with a 365hp 454ci LS5 engine, turbohydramatic transmission, turbine wheels, rear chrome luggage rack, and more. This dual-chrome-bumper classic looks to me like it’s cosmetically in very good condition.
This vintage Stingray has had a “newer” repaint in the original shade of Sunflower Yellow, and from what I can see in the photos, the exterior seems to be in good condition.
The brakes, tires, and exhaust are said to be new, and all vacuum lines, suspension, front end, and steering components have been redone. The knockoff-style turbine wheels with white-letter tires complete the 70s look.
The black interior is new and the cabin has the original factory air conditioning, an AM/FM radio, power windows, and a tilt-telescopic steering column. The steering wheel doesn’t look original to me but looks good.
The LS5 454 engine has been rebuilt to LS6 levels with a hot roller cam, solid lifters, aluminum intake, NDS ignition, and more. It should probably produce at least 425 horsepower, a big leap from the 365 horsepower of the LS5. An oversized aluminum radiator has been installed to ensure that the engine runs cool under all conditions.
The Turbo 400 automatic transmission has also been rebuilt and upgraded to a performance level “for fast, solid, amazing shifts,” the seller says. He further describes this car as “an excellent turnkey driver.”
To sum up, if you want a high-performance early C3 that has already had the power upgrade and go-fast work done for you, this car might be worth a look. It’s available near Minneapolis for $32,000.
Here is a link to the Craigslist ad:
https://minneapolis.craigslist.org/ram/cto/d/saint-paul-1971-chevrolet-corvette-top/7863767184.html
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