Basic information and history

The 1974 Corvette C3 marks a major turning point in the model's evolution. 1974 was the first year to feature body-colored urethane front and rear bumpers, and the last year to be available with the 454-cubic-inch big-block V8. The combination of fiberglass bodywork, pop-up headlights, and the classic Stingray look make the 1974 model particularly interesting to connoisseurs.

This example was sold new in Sweden and comes with extensive documentation, including extracts from all previous owners via the National Archives. The odometer reading is 88,819 km and is stated to be guaranteed by the seller. The engine is of course a big block 454 cui with automatic, red interior and targa top/T-top. The color code is stated as Paint 74L and the interior code as Trim 425. According to the seller, there is a lot of documentation collected, see the documentation section of the pictures. All information below has been provided by the seller.

Equipment and options

• Big block V8 454 cui (7.4 liters)
• Automatic transmission
• Targa top/T-top
• Red interior
• Color code Paint 74L
• Interior code Trim 425

Modifications and improvements

The car has previously been repainted (unknown when). Recently repaired for oil leakage between engine and gearbox according to service record on 2025-07-25. The automatic transmission has also received new oil and filter and a new O-ring in the vacuum box.

Condition

Body and exterior The paint is described as good and probably previously repainted. There are minor stone chips in the front, a scratch in front of the left front wheel arch and a minor paint bubble to the right of the hood. Glass is in good condition according to the seller. Chrome, moldings, headlight lenses and emblems are stated to be in good condition for their age. Right exterior rearview mirror glass is cracked. Door panels and sill moldings show age-related wear. See pictures for your own assessment.

Interior The interior is described as incredibly good for the age of the car with very nice headliner. Minor wear on the seat of the driver's seat. Steering wheel, controls and buttons in good condition for the age. See pictures for your own assessment.

Tires and rims The tires have good tread depth but are old with DOT markings 5007 and 1609 respectively. Considering their age, replacement is recommended before harder driving. See pictures for your own assessment.

Mechanics and function The engine is said to be in very good condition and runs well with the typical big block sound. The gearbox and drivetrain work. An oil leak between the engine and gearbox has recently been fixed. There is a minor leak/sweat from the power steering. The brakes work and the car has recently been inspected without any complaints. During the test drive, the brakes pulled slightly sideways but this improved after a few braking manoeuvres.

Functions that are not fully functional according to the seller : the oil pressure gauge is stuck, the passenger compartment fan is not working, the fan cover for the cooling fan is broken.

Service history

Extensive documentation is available according to the seller, including ownership history from the National Archives. Latest actions performed by DB Auto Classic on 2025-07-25:

• Troubleshooting and measures for oil leaks with cleaning and warm-up
• Changing automatic transmission oil and filter with Castrol service kit
• Replacing the O-ring in the vacuum box for the gearbox

The seller states that the oil leak between the engine and gearbox was fixed in connection with the above work. Light sweat was noted from the power steering grease nipple. For complete receipts and documentation, please refer to the documentation section of the pictures.

Summary

A Swedish-sold 1974 Corvette Stingray with big block 454, automatic and red interior, in a well-maintained driver-friendly condition with correct age patina. The paint is nice with minor signs of wear, the interior is unusually fresh for its age and technically the car is said to run very well. Recently serviced with focus on gearbox and seals. A few known points remain to be addressed, including the passenger compartment fan, oil pressure gauge, fan cover and a cracked right mirror glass. The tires are older and should be checked before active driving. For those looking for a documented, Swedish-sold C3 from the last year with the 454, this is an attractive example on Bidders Highway.