1970 Chevrolet Corvette 454 Big Block â?" Monza Red T-Top with 4-Speed Manual and NCRS Affiliation Why This Car Is Special The 1970 Chevrolet Corvette holds a specific and well-earned place in C3 history. It was the first model year the 454 cubic inch big block engine was offered in the Corvette, introduced as a direct response to enthusiast demand for more displacement following the 427's run. The LS5 454 was rated at 390 horsepower from the factory in base tune, while the higher-compression LS7 version â?" though ultimately not offered to the public in 1970 â?" demonstrated just how serious Chevrolet was about the platform. Beyond the engine news, 1970 was also notable for being a short model year.
