Difference between 70 71 72 ?
How about the '71 configuration?
Also the Alternator mounting bracket & exhaust manifold design changed on the 72 SB. It bolts to the head & water pump. 70-71 bolts to the water pump & exhaust manifold.
70 studs for mounting , hole in turn signal case for fiber optic - Amber lenses
71 screws for mounting , hole in turn signal case for fiber optic - amber lenses]
72 screws for mounting , no hole in turn signal case for fiber - no fiber optic - clear lenses. amber bulb,
Also, I believe the rear view mirror (inside), changed in 72, from polished to a black finish.
The Blue interior changed to a darker Blue for just 71 and 72.
In later production 71 the leather seats had pleats running side to side instead of fore and aft.
Fuel filler door hardware (seen when you open filler door) changed in 71 to make filling easier.
I know there are a few more things, but it will come to me later
Last edited by Z06LMB; Feb 2, 2019 at 04:16 AM.
The Best of Corvette for Corvette Enthusiasts

Last edited by Mdbirk; Sep 23, 2023 at 09:07 PM.
A few years ago I had my original stock '72 454 rebuilt. The compression was raised to about 9:1 or 9.5:1 but all else was very close to factory components (.030" over, hydraulic flat tappet "RV" cam, original heads w/new guides and valves). The dyno came in at something right about 395hp. 1/2 point of compression may account for a slight bump but it wouldn't be all that significant and certainly not 120 hp (270 to 390) as indicated in your quotes.
It's been stated here on CF that quite a bit of detuning of the ignition for emissions will account for a good part of the HP loss.
For '71 & '72 the LS-5 had 8.5CR (365 gross hp).





















