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The 1974 Z28 was the final version of Chevrolet's original second-generation performance package before the name disappeared for 1975 and 1976. Its new aluminum-bumper body is easy to recognize, but the important part is underneath: Chevrolet still treated Z28 as a complete package rather than a stripe kit.
The factory record pairs a 245-net-horsepower, 280-lb-ft 350 with a Quadrajet, dual-snorkel air cleaner, forged crankshaft, four-bolt block, special camshaft, aluminum pistons, finned valve covers, enhanced cooling, and dual exhaust. Buyers could choose M20 or M21 four-speeds or a specially calibrated Turbo Hydra-Matic 400. Positraction and 3.73 gears were included; air-conditioned cars used 3.42 gears. Power front discs, rear drums, package suspension, faster steering, 15x7 wheels, and F60-15 tires completed the mechanical specification.
Z28 could be ordered on the Sport Coupe or the more richly trimmed Type LT. D88 hood and deck graphics and D80 spoilers were options, so a stripe-free or spoiler-free car is not automatically wrong. Conversely, stripes, wheels, and emblems are easy to reproduce. A credible car ties the VIN's T engine code, Norwood body-tag Z28 notation, engine suffix and partial VIN, transmission and axle evidence, dates, paint and trim codes, and original paperwork into one consistent history.