When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Hello all, really appreciate some opinions. Been looking at an orange lt1 with 33,000 miles and a big block with 49,000 miles, both roughly the same price. Which one would you pick?
I had that exact same 1971 Ontario Orange with tan interior (right down to the rack on the back) with a 454, it was my DD from 1973 to 1977 when I ordered a new 1977 Black small block C3. Lots of memories in that car. I was always partial to the big blocks as they were the only Corvette engines I ever rebuilt.
Really going to come down to your purposes. The LT-1 won't radiate as much heat, unique hood stripes, solid lifters, higher winding. The big block will radiate heat, fill engine compartment more, broader torque range, generally highway gears, and likely be able to use pump gas easier.
I have a 1970 454, and my dad has a 1970 LT-1. Years ago my dads LT-1 and my 454 took offfrom a light, prior to my ownership. The LT-1 had 3.70 gears with m21, the 454 had 3.08 with m20. Around 100 mph the 454 drove by, but the 454 was not far behind from the start.
If you are just cruising get the one that appeals to you most in colors and options.
Depends what you want to do with it. If you are going to drive the heck out of it, I would pick the LT1. If you are concerned with originality, correctness of components and options, then make your choice that way. I see no prices posted, but both cars look nice from just the couple of pics.
Joe
op go drive both, the one that feels best is what you want
if the driving experience isnt getting it the fact of "rare" wont mean squat to you no matter which one you pick.
It's a tough choice, both have leather and original paint. The big block has two top flight awards, I'm sure if the lt1 was judged it would as well. I prefer the Ontario orange color, but really don't like the luggage rack, to each their own. If one had ac that would be the deciding factor.
..... pm a mod they can move for you
1971 LT1 vs 1972 454
