1974 completed what was started in 1973; this time the rear chrome bumpers were gone, also to accommodate new safety regulations. Corvette stylists had done chrome better than anyone, as a glance at any of the C1 Corvettes would attest.
Some Corvette fans thought the cars looked "unfinished" although designer Larry Shinoda is reported to have approved, saying it was actually closer to what the stylists intended.
Whatever your conclusion, one thing is for sure: The Corvette bumper solution was far better than anything else on the road at the time. Other cars had what can best be described as "Park Benches" as a solution, leading to a general automotive design malaise.
The 1974 rear bumper cap was a two piece design, exclusive for that year.
1974 would be the last year for the 454 cubic inch engine in the Corvette.
Above: Engine specifications plates for 454 cubic-inch 270 horsepower engine (RPO LS4, $250; Qty: 3,494 9.32%). Below: 350 cubic inch RPO L82 250 horsepower engine ($299.00; Qty: 6,690 17.84%). The base 350 cubic inch engine was rated at 195 horsepower.
1974 Corvette Coupe in Medium Blue. No optional wheels were shipped for 1974.
