1974 Corvette and 1975 Corvette

The 1974 transition to "soft" bumpers was completed and was the last Corvette produced without catalytic converters. Cast aluminum wheels were listed on the options list for the 1974 Corvette, but according to records, none were sold. This was the last year for the 454 "Big Block" engines.

This was the end of the Corvette convertible until production resumed again in 1986. The 1975 Corvette was the first year for catalytic converters, which were routed through the catalytic converter, then split for a dual exit. This was the first year for High Energy Ignition (HEI) as well. It was also the first year for the headlight warning buzzer. During that time, Zora Arkus-Duntov officially resigned from GM, and David McLellan took his place.