Ultra-Rare 1970 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Set to Race Across the Block at Russo and Steele's 16th Annual Monterey Collector Automobile Auction Event!

Scottsdale, Arizona (July 12th, 2016) – In 1970 Corvette Chief Engineer Zora Arkus Duntov applied the lessons learned from the all-conquering L88 to the small block Corvette, resulting in the race-ready ZR1. Although formally listed as a 'Special Engine Package', the ZR1 was in reality a small block version of the L88, with identical chassis preparation, brakes, cooling and accessory deletions. There were 1,287 buyers for the LT1 Corvettes that year, but only 25 of them chose the ZR1 combination. It was powered by the mighty LT1 solid lifter small block, which was fitted with a heavy duty L88 starter and a lightweight flywheel and mated to the famous Muncie M22 'Rock Crusher' 4-speed manual transmission. J56 Heavy Duty Brakes were used, as were transistorized ignition, a special aluminum radiator with surge tank and metal fan shroud, heavy duty springs and shock absorbers and larger diameter front and rear sway bars, all features of the L88. In keeping with its mission as a competition car, the ZR1 could not be ordered with power windows, power steering, air conditioning, a rear-window defogger, wheel covers, or a radio. Chevrolet produced just 25 examples of this ultimate small block Corvette for 1970. This is one of those handful constructed, and more incredibly, it was ordered as a convertible.

This absolutely stunning Classic White on Blue example is one of only a handful of ZR1 versions equipped with that special racing package, and was ordered with tilt/telescopic steering and a 4.11 Positraction differential. The car was originally prepared and sponsored by Dick Guldstrand for SCCA solo competition for then-owner George Lynch. Since that time, it has had only three other owners and is highly regarded as formerly part of the Chuck Ungurean ZR1 Collection. It recently received an extensive mechanical restoration and detailing in 2015, earning it a Top Flight award in 2015.

Among the rarest of small-block models, this ultra-performance Corvette comes with exceptional provenance. The original purchase order worksheet, Protect-O-Plate, and copies of shipping forms are here. It was a magazine cover car during its racing days, has secured Bloomington Gold honors, and most recently scored a spectacular 98.3 in Top Flight NRCS judging in 2015

The word exceptional is not overused with this car. This amazingly well-presented ZR1 Corvette is a unique investment opportunity and a highlight of any serious collection.

Experience all the high energy excitement of Russo and Steele in Monterey for yourself! Bidder registration is just $200 and includes admission for all 3 days of 'Auction in the Round' action for the bidder and one lucky guest. Stay tuned for further updates on our 16th annual Monterey auction and event schedule and join us for the Hottest Nights in Monterey August 18-20 on the waterfront near historic Fisherman's Wharf!

About Russo and Steele Collector Automobile Auctions

One of the nation's premier collector-car auction houses, Russo and Steele Collector Automobile Auctions continues to set records and attract a discerning global clientele. In addition to our reputation for offering stellar collector automobiles, our unique high-energy auction experience is simply unattainable anywhere else. Auctions include our signature event in Scottsdale, Arizona every January, followed by June at Newport Beach, and August at Monterey, California. For additional information, please visit www.russoandsteele.com or call 602.252.2697.