This 1972 Pontiac LeMans Sport Convertible is a striking-looking classic. Its presentation is first-rate, and its mechanical specifications promise an entertaining driving experience. With summer on our doorstep, it could be the perfect option for maximizing your motoring pleasure during the upcoming warm weather. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this Convertible listed here on eBay in Clearwater, Florida. The seller set their price at $58,900 OBO.
Pontiac’s Third Generation LeMans range graced showroom floors from 1968 until 1972. This final-year Sport Convertible is a mystery machine. The paint shade doesn’t appear to be Cardinal Red, as it is too dark. The seller supplies a Cowl Tag image, but it is difficult to read. However, I think that I can see a “14” next to the paint field, suggesting that the first owner may have ordered this classic in Revere Silver. If that is correct, it is unclear when the color change occurred. Ignoring that for a moment, the overall presentation is impressive. The exterior’s mirror shine and arrow-straight panels are a great starting point, while the underside shots confirm that this gem is rust-free. The contrasting White power top is free from rips and stains, and the trim and glass are in good order. Rounding out the exterior is a spotless set of 15″ Rally II wheels.
Powering this Pontiac is a 400ci V8, producing a factory-claimed 200hp and 295 ft/lbs of torque. Both figures seem to suggest a dramatic drop from the previous year’s 300hp and 400 ft/lbs, but an industry-wide move to quoting engine outputs in Net terms from 1972 accounts for most of the difference. A four-speed manual transmission sends power to a 3.08 Posi rear end, allowing this LeMans to cruise effortlessly on the open road at 70mph. The seller supplies no information regarding the car’s mechanical condition, but I see no evidence suggesting the news would be anything but positive. It is also worth noting that any ’72 LeMans within this price range should run and drive perfectly.
The list of changes made to this LeMans continues inside, with a Formula wheel and a Pioneer CD player among the aftermarket additions. The air conditioning has been updated with Vintage Air components and blows ice-cold. The dash features a factory tachometer, while power windows round out the luxury appointments. Trimmed in Black vinyl, the interior is in good enough condition to ensure the new owner won’t feel embarrassed when they drop the top. There is no visible wear or evidence of abuse, and the faux timber is excellent. The appearance is consistent with a high-end driver and has no apparent needs or weaknesses.
Finding anything significant to criticize about this 1972 Pontiac LeMans Sport Convertible is seemingly impossible. However, with the seller’s price well above the market average, it needs to be virtually perfect to justify that figure. The listing statistics are extremely modest, suggesting that many potential buyers may have decided that it is beyond what they are willing to pay. Do you think this Pontiac will find a new home, or will the seller need to make a serious compromise for that to happen?
Too bad the seller didn’t provide a copy of the PHS report so you could see how it came equipped from the factory.
Steve R
Does it really matter? This is a beautiful car in its own right. I prefer non matching cars, keeps the price down for the rest of us who do not want to make a buck, just enjoy the open road. When the flippers and investment people got into the car biz, we all lost. At least, us purists. People in it for the right reasons.
For that price it does matter. I’m not into perfectly restored cars, I’m also not interested in paying a premium ($58,900) for a base car that was pieced together.
I’m not sure what your point is, cars that have been changed substantially have always sold at a discount compared to muscle cars/performance variant with documentation. You seem to be arguing that shouldn’t be the case. Thirty years ago friend built a 1971 La Mans convertible, he put on a 1970 GTO front bumper, hood , added a 4spd and every convenience option he could find such as power windows, door locks, tilt column, console etc. When the car didn’t make sense for family outings with his wife and 3 kids he sold it, he never contemplated asking GTO money, like you seem to be suggesting, instead he picked a premium price for a Le Mans, because that’s what it was. Clones always have and should sell for a discounted, that’s nothing new.
Steve R
Back to PJs Autoworld again?