Changes for the 1970 Corvette included more comfortable seats, a squared off clear turn signal indicator (backed by an amber bulb) surrounded by an "ice cube tray" style grill and fender louvers. Cool air for the radiator was blocked by the headlights when they were in the down position so airflow to the radiator was mostly pulled from under the car. Other updates included a better seat belt shoulder retractor and headlight washers.

The LT-1 engine debuted in 1970 and was a hit amongst Corvette motorheads. It was essentially a solid lifter version of the well known and loved small block. Road racers welcomed the new motor since the horsepower was up and it's light weight kept the Corvette's balance under control.

1970 is famous for being the last year that high compression engines were available. Unleaded gasoline was in the future and high octane gasoline was becoming harder to find, causing GM to limit compression ratios after 1970.

A new engine option appeared in 1970: the LS5 became the only big block available. Displacement was 454 cu in., the largest Chevrolet would install in a Corvette.