'68 Corvette Convertible, #s L-79

[TimG]

The 68 L79 came as this one is pictured with painted steel intake and Rochester carb. Also, chrome stamped valve covers. It was a letdown compared to the 67 L79.

[scuncio]

Also interesting that the L-79 was rated 325hp in the ‘68 Chevelle yet 350hp in the Corvette.

[luzl78]

Originally Posted by scuncio

Also interesting that the L-79 was rated 325hp in the ‘68 Chevelle yet 350hp in the Corvette.

corvette always had the higher rating

[67since67]

For the '65 and '66 model years all L79s were rated at 350hp regardless of what car they were installed in.

For the '67 model year Chevelle applications were dropped to 325hp with the Corvette remaining at 350hp, with no changes to engine specs, while the six (?) '67 L79 Nova's built near the end of the '67 model year were the first to switch to iron intake and Q-Jet carb, leading into the full switch for the '68 model year, with the Corvette still remaining at 350hp rating.

Are you confused yet??

Arguments can be made that ratings are due to exhaust system differences, but my theory is that The Chevelle 325 rating is to not upstage the SS396 base 325 rating.

While not as "Pretty" as the Holley/aluminum combo the Q-Jet combo is actually a better performer due to the Q-Jet's increased cfm compared to the smallish 585 cfm Holley.

I am a big fan of the L79 engine no matter what car it is installed in. - Bill W