Chances to own a sought-after, classic convertible Corvette in any semblance of decent condition are pretty rare. Factor in a numbers-matching, powerful big block engine rebuilt only a few thousand miles ago, as well as a number of other pivotal rebuilt parts, and the opportunity becomes even more scarce. But that's just what we have here with this 1971 Chevrolet Corvette 454 convertible. The early '70s was a great era for Corvettes. Chevy had begun to add some inspired touches to the exterior, including more pronounced fender flares and body curvature from front to back, to go along with the signature hidden headlights that had become synonymous with the model. And if you're going to change the color from its original Brands Hatch Green, why not go all out with Guards Red! The hue on this '71 shows off that style to perfection, benefitting from a nice even clearcoat that gives it a lot of depth and shine. The Corvette convertible exemplifies the open-air muscle car experience and you can picture just how much fun it would be to hit the highway in this very powerful and road-ready drop-top with nothing but blue sky above you, but on those occasions when the weather isn't quite cooperating, the manual convertible top is in good shape and stands at the ready to protect you from the elements. This is one of those rare classic convertibles that doesn't lose its visual impact with the top up and its tan shade complements the exterior perfectly. Open up a contoured door and slip into the driver's seat and you'll see an interior that's sporting the original saddle color this Vette began life with and also happens to be one of the coolest of the era. The high-backed bucket seats are in great condition, as is the center console between them - angled to put the floor shifter within very easy reach. To each side you'll find door panels that are nearly new and sit snug and flush to the steel that surrounds them, while just in front of you, beyond the stock Corvette steering wheel that sits atop a tilting and telescoping column, is a truly impressive array of instrumentation - a bevy of aeronautically-inspired gauges that extends all the way down to the center console, all still very readable and looking right back at you through clear lenses. A heat shield has been installed underneath the tan carpeting that sits below, so you've got protection from the heat of the asphalt, which so often makes its presence felt with vintage cars. The big block 454 engine you'll find underneath the signature long, sloping Corvette hood stands as testimony to the adage: "there's no replacement for displacement." Rebuilt just a few thousand miles ago and paired with Chevy's 3 speed TH400 automatic transmission, it's in fine form, churning out 365 horsepower and sounding outstanding as it exhales through the set of aftermarket long-tube headers. A great added touch is the Steeroids power rack and pinion kit - it eliminates the customary play you find in the steering boxes used in this era and allows this 'Vette to reach its full handling potential. The recently rebuilt power disc brakes you'll find on all four corners will provide the stopping power you'd need when the situation warrants. This eye-catching, open air classic sits with a low and level stock stance on a set of 15" stock Corvette rims, wrapped in BF Goodrich T/A radials. In the market for a great-looking, numbers matching vintage drop-top, decked out in an outstanding color combination and sporting serious big block power? You have to check out this 1971 Chevrolet Corvette 454 convertible. Call today!
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