Chevrolet
Corvette ZR1 (LT-1 Special Purpose Engine Package)

Why it matters

The first ZR1 was an option package rather than a separate model. It combined the solid-lifter LT-1 small block with the M22 four-speed and heavy-duty chassis parts for racing use, and it was the forerunner of the ZR-1 name that returned on the C4 in 1990.

How rare is it?

Six separate kinds of rarity – never combined into one number.

Each kind of rarity is rated separately and never combined.

Photos

Exterior, interior and detail photos with their licences.

• Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 (LT-1 Special Purpose Engine Package) (Wikimedia Commons search)
  Photo: Eric Friedebach · CC BY 2.0
• Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 (LT-1 Special Purpose Engine Package) (Wikimedia Commons search)
  Photo: Eric Friedebach · CC BY 2.0

Production

Every figure says what it counts.

Independent counts (e.g. engine and colour) are never combined into a calculated figure. Surviving examples are never presented as original production.

History

The package was offered from 1970 to 1972. Besides the LT-1 engine and M22 gearbox it brought heavy-duty brakes, springs, shocks and anti-roll bars, a metal fan shroud and an aluminum radiator.

It could not be ordered with a radio, air conditioning, power steering or wheel covers. Chevrolet built 25 in 1970, 8 in 1971 and 20 in 1972, 53 in total; 1972 was the last year for the LT-1 and the ZR1.

Technical specifications

Engine

Transmission & drivetrain

Chassis, body & dimensions

Performance

“Not yet verified” means no source has been checked for that value yet. Nothing is estimated to fill a gap.

Sources

Each number links to the exact facts it supports.

1. 1
   C3 Corvette hub (1968-1982) Level B CorvSport

   • Chevrolet built 25 in 1970, 8 in 1971 and 20 in 1972

   Accessed 2026-11-12
2. 2
   Corvette Action Center – 1970 Corvette Production Numbers & Options Level C

   • 25 ZR1 packages in 1970 (8 in 1971, 20 in 1972)

   Accessed 2026-11-12