1971 didn’t offer much excitement for graduation albums in Detroit. Both big and small automakers faced strict regulations from the federal government, which essentially banned the use of lead in gasoline. This move put an end to the era of high-performance engines, marking the conclusion of the horsepower wars.
In that final year, the Corvette, America’s beloved sports car, made a bold move to defy the dwindling performance standards. Despite the industry-wide decline, Chevrolet introduced the LS6 engine, which had initially been planned for the 1970 Corvette. However, due to various circumstances, it wasn’t released until 1971.
Although slightly detuned, with 425 hp instead of the intended 450 hp, it still packed a powerful punch, matching the performance of the renowned Street HEMI.
The 1971 Corvette equipped with the LS6 engine became a formidable machine, boasting impressive power and torque. However, its appetite for fuel was voracious, with dismal mileage figures ranging from 9 to 14 mpg. Consequently, only a limited number of 188 units were fitted with the LS6 engine, making them a rare find among collectors.
One such example, discovered by Dennis Collins, showcased the challenges faced by these powerful machines. This specific Corvette languished in a dealer’s showroom for years, only to suffer a cracked engine block shortly after purchase.
Despite its rarity and historical significance, the 1971 LS6 Corvettes haven’t reached the same stratospheric prices as other iconic muscle cars, with the most expensive sale reaching $214,500.
