The all-new 2025 Chevy Corvette ZR1 is taking the performance car world by storm as the fastest American production car of all time, with a verified top speed of 233 mph. The ZR1 moniker has been synonymous with performance for decades, and it all started with the ZR1 variant of the 1970 Chevy Corvette, with one rare example up for auction right now on Bring a Trailer.
Although the C4 generation of the Corvette is the one that put the ZR1 (or the hyphenated ZR-1, in this case) name on the map, there was a lesser-known C3 ZR1. Under the swooping hood lay a “Turbo-Fire” 5.7L V8 LT1 engine with solid lifters and a lightweight flywheel, rated at 370 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. This was the same torque rating as the standard Corvette V8 for 1970 but an extra 70 horsepower. Other mechanical upgrades include a heavy-duty suspension system, an aluminum radiator, and revised brakes for better fade resistance in track driving.
The original Corvette ZR1 had an ethos similar to the Camaro Z28, a stripped-down sports car with a laser focus on track performance. You couldn’t order the original ZR1 with air conditioning, power windows, a radio, or wheel covers.
Only 25 units were built for the first model year of the Chevy Corvette ZR1, and here’s your opportunity to own one of them. This example up for auction in Stuart, Florida is well-kept, with about 48,000 miles on the clock. It’s finished in Monza Red with a Saddle vinyl interior, and, like every C3 ZR1, power is delivered to the rear wheels via a close-ratio 4-speed manual transmission.
Thorough documentation leaves no room for doubt of this ZR1’s authenticity. You’ll find copies of the original order document from the dealer and the Monroney showing a total cost of $6,290.10 when this car was new (about $52,500 in today’s dollars). ZR1 was a $968.95 option package, and the only other option on this Corvette was white-lettered tires for an extra $33.15.
With only 25 in existence, this is probably the cleanest 1970 Corvette ZR1 you’ll find for sale for a long time. The auction ends on Saturday, November 2nd, and the high bid as of this writing is $126,000.
Comments
Question: What was the difference between the ZR-1 and the LT-1 in the 1970 model year Corvette? I remember the LT-1 was rated at 370 h.p., same as this ZR-1. Thanks !!!
The main difference was the suspension upgrades and the brake upgrades and the fact that you could NOT order certain options like even a Radio or power windows, etc. A/C was not available on either of these models.
These cars were intended to be sold and used for competition purposes and as “Race Cars.”
Hope that helps. btw – re-read the article and you will see most of this information.
Nice !!!!!!
I love the 67 to 71 corvettes they’re just one of nice’s cars besides chevelle . But this car like dream if only I was born earlier I’d have one , my 67! SS chevelle was stolen from me while I was at my dad’s wake & funeral. Sadly never recovered it . Thanks appreciate your column.
I have had a ’64 roadster for 51 years.
5 engines.2 rear ends.3 paint jobs.1 interior and a side exhaust and I still love it.
Also have a ’16 Z51 which is a mover and a shaker with 14,
000 miles that is a little faster every time I take it out.
Again,
Vote Trump or the party is over!
My best
Jim