In 1973 Corvettes managed to meet the new five-mph Federal Bumper Standards without a major redesign. They received a rounded urethane nose this year and a rounded rear bumper cover to match in 1974. The year 1973 also marked the first appearance of steel-belted radial tires and a new cushioned body mounting system for quieter highway cruising and improved handling. Chevy poked fun of itself by referring to the new front fascia and other changes in its advertising – ’73 Corvette – We gave it radials, a quieter ride, guard beams and a nose job. Other changes were minimal including a domed hood, fixed rear window, an engine coolant recovery system, along with the steel guard beam doors. The eggcrate front fender side vents were replaced with non-trimmed air ducts to complement the cleaner exterior styling.

By 1973, Corvette was still America’s only sports car; however, it was evolving into more of a GT than all-out sports car. More than 70 percent were equipped with air conditioning, over 90 percent with power steering, and little more than 40 percent with a manual transmission. Chevrolet produced 30,465 Corvettes in 1973 including just 4,943 convertibles like this excellent, driver-quality example. Powered by the small-block 350-cid, 190-hp V-8 engine and four-speed manual transmission, this Mille Miglia Red ragtop with red interior is equipped with power steering and brakes, power windows, factory air conditioning, luggage rack, and Rally wheels shod with white letter radial tires.