1970 Corvette LT-1 “Survivor”

The famed solid-lifter small-block that had contributed so much to establishing Corvette’s reputation disappeared after 1968, when Chevrolet bored out the 327 to 350 CI for increased efficiency and offered only hydraulic cams in the base300 HP and optional L46 350 HP versions. After production delays in 1969, Chief Engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov was able to deliver on his promise of a new high-performance, small-block-powered Corvette with the 1970 LT1. Once again, buyers could enjoy the clatter of mechanical lifters at idle and the signature cacophonous wail of a free-revving small-block at full throttle. Instantly identified by its pinstriped big-block style hood and bold “LT1” badges, this new engine was a worthy successor to its legendary Rochester fuel-injected 283 and 327 CI forebears. Following their example, its mechanical camshaft was perfectly suited to extended high-RPM operation. A big-block-sized Holley 850 CFM 4-barrel carburetor and a dual-plane aluminum intake manifold was needed to meet the demands of the LT1’s high-flow heads which  used 2.02-inch intake and 1.60-inch exhaust valves. A forged rotating assembly, 4-bolt mains and transistorized ignition also contributed to the LT1’sincredible output of 370 HP at 6,000 RPM and 380 lb-ft of torque at 4,000.Chevrolet produced just 1,287 LT1 Corvette coupes and convertibles during the shortened 1970 production year, making those that remain genuine classics in Corvette’s lineage.