Certain cars have remained a staple of the classic scene for decades, with no sign the situation will change in the foreseeable future. One such vehicle is the C3 Corvette, which has enjoyed its time in the sun. Many enthusiasts clamor for numbers-matching spotless examples or affordable projects, but this 1972 model treads a fascinating middle ground. It makes a positive first impression, and its engine bay houses a big-block that should lift its performance beyond any ‘Vette that rolled off the line that year. It needs a new home and someone who can return its presentation to a level that will do its performance potential justice. The seller has listed it here on eBay in Chesterfield, Virginia. There have been no bids since the auction opened at $22,000, although there is a BIN option of $28,000 for those who view this beast as a “must-have” project.

This classic rolled off the line in the final year that the C3 Corvette featured chrome bumpers at both ends. Its Elkhart Green paint shines nicely, and the presentation is impressive from a distance. A close inspection reveals some minor imperfections but nothing requiring immediate attention. There is some evidence suggesting the vehicle may have received a repaint, but this isn’t mentioned in the listing. The fiberglass is generally good. There is no sign of previous accident damage and no evidence of significant cracks or other problems. The seller states the birdcage is rock-solid, and if the same is true of the frame, this beauty is a prime candidate for some light restoration work to lift its presentation to a higher level. That work will include restoring the Rally wheels because they show signs of minor corrosion that could spoil the car’s appearance. The glass looks spotless, and there are no apparent trim issues. A bonus is the seller’s decision to include a spare hood finished in the correct Green shade. Since this car rolled off the line with a 350 occupying the engine bay, I suspect the spare might actually be the vehicle’s original item.

The VIN confirms this Corvette’s original owner ordered it with a 350ci V8 under the hood. That would have provided respectable performance, although the Corvette was not immune from the impact of emission regulations at that time. Teaming the LT1 version of the 350 with a four-speed manual transmission would have produced a ¼-mile ET of 15.1 seconds and a top speed of 137mph, but this owner craved more. Therefore, the 350 got the flick, and a 454ci GM Roller Crate Motor was slotted into the empty space. The dyno sheets confirm it churns out a genuine 425hp, which feeds to the road via a four-speed Muncie transmission. That big-block is a game-changer for this Corvette, placing a mid-13-second ET within reach. For those preferring an effortless driving experience, the original owner outfitted this classic with power assistance for the steering and brakes. The seller didn’t simply bolt in this big-block and hope for the best because they splashed the cash on new front and rear suspension, a new carburetor, a new fuel tank, and a Borgesen steering box. The car runs and drives well, seeing active service for weekend classic motoring adventures. Those preferring vehicles with a documented history will be further drawn to this classic by the mountain of included paperwork. The new owner receives registrations from Day 1, the Owner’s Manual, Protect-O-Plate, original Tank and Window Stickers, and an enormous collection of receipts for services and parts.

The Corvette’s interior could best be described as a work in progress, although we receive no information on why it is partially dismantled. The dash center swings in the breeze, while the forward section of the console is missing. A few minor items are also missing, including the lock knob for the passenger door. However, what remains shows plenty of promise. The Saddle leather seatcovers should present well following a clean and condition. The dash looks excellent, as do the door trims. The carpet appears new, and the seller confirms they recently installed a new pair of the correct seatbelts. I noticed the original shifter has made way for a Hurst item, which is a common upgrade. Whether it stays or goes will depend on the new owner’s desire to achieve a “stock” look inside this ‘Vette. The first owner focused on comfort with this classic, ticking the boxes beside air conditioning, power windows, and a tilt/telescopic wheel on the Order Form.

Any project car with a price above $20,000 would not be considered affordable by many people, but it is worth delving deeper to confirm whether the price is justified. It is possible to buy some extremely tidy driver-grade ’72 Corvettes for the BIN figure on this car, and most will feature a 350/4-speed drivetrain combination. However, substitute an original big-block for the 350, and the figure can rise beyond $50,000. This car isn’t numbers-matching, but that isn’t necessarily bad. It matters to purists seeking a vehicle that represents a guaranteed long-term investment, but it is less of an issue for those preferring a classic they can drive and enjoy. This car could potentially command a value of $40,000 plus if treated to a cosmetic refresh, and history suggests that figure should continue climbing. Considering the BIN price, that leaves room to move before the financial viability becomes an issue. That is why I believe this Corvette is worth a close look.