Originality is often a key consideration when assessing the relative worth of any classic. This 1972 Chevrolet Corvette is a prime example of that philosophy, retaining its factory paint and interior. Adding to its appeal are the odometer reading of 42,000 miles and the original owner’s decision to order the car with the desirable LT-1 version of Chevrolet’s small-block V8. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this beauty listed here on eBay in Dunellen, New Jersey. The seller set their price at $38,999 with the option to make an offer.
The 1972 model year represented the end of an era for the C3 Corvette. It was the last where buyers received chrome bumpers at either end, while the removable rear window and the often troublesome vacuum-operated windshield wiper door would both disappear at the year’s end. The first owner ordered this Coupe in Elkhart Green, a shade chosen by 4,200 buyers. The seller indicates that this Corvette has been part of the same family for decades and that the paint is original. The presentation is noteworthy if this is true, because the paint shines impressively, and there are no cosmetic imperfections. The seller supplies a wide selection of listing images, revealing that this classic is rust-free. They offer some extra-cost options to potential buyers, including paint correction and ceramic coating. I would probably perform an in-person inspection to determine whether the cost is justified, because this Chevy looks fine in its current form.
Buyers could choose from two optional engines in 1972 if the Corvette’s standard 350ci V8 didn’t provide the performance that they yearned for. The 454ci V8 was the cheapest and was chosen by 3,913 buyers. The LT-1 version of the small-block was considerably more expensive, adding $483.45 to the sticker price. This motor was over 60% more expensive than the big-block, helping to explain why only 1,741 buyers ticked that box on their Order Form. This Corvette is one of those cars, also featuring a four-speed that feeds the LT-1’s 255hp and 280 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels. The most crucial factor with this car is that it is numbers-matching. Someone has added aftermarket headers and what appears to be a different air cleaner. However, reversing those changes would be worthwhile and relatively inexpensive in the quest for authenticity. The vehicle is said to run and drive perfectly, making it a turnkey proposition for its new owner.
The originality of this Corvette extends to its interior, which is trimmed in Saddle leather. Its condition is extremely tidy for a classic of this vintage, with stretching on the driver’s seat base the only apparent fault. The leather wears the wrinkles that develop with age, and the upholstered surfaces are free from wear. The plastic is in good order, the carpet hasn’t faded, and the first owner equipped the car with an AM/FM radio for those wishing to listen to something apart from the glorious tune sung by the small-block. They have substituted a Hurst shifter for the factory item, a change that I would reverse quickly if this Corvette found its way into my garage.
This 1972 Chevrolet Corvette is a stunning classic, and reversing the few noticeable minor changes would be easy and inexpensive if the buyer wished to recapture the factory form that will maximize its future potential value. Otherwise, this classic appears to need little beyond a new home. The seller’s BIN figure looks competitive in the current market. However, the listing statistics tend to indicate that it hasn’t generated the level of interest we would typically expect from such a desirable vehicle. Perhaps I am missing something glaringly obvious that has had that impact. What are your thoughts?
Nice! Can’t fault anything on this car including the minor changes, especially the headers. Model T Fords had better headers than the originals on this car. The care this car has had in it’s lifetime is impressive.
Out for the count, Adam. You took us to the mat when you hit us with this finale.
How can we not look at this one or the earlier ‘67 and not see the Mako Shark(s)(1 & 2)? Corvette stayed faithfully close to the originals and wowed the world. This one too shows how some thought of the same, regardless of minor personal mods.
Curvette must be working double shifts to find the selection of classics like this one-well done!
I completely agree with Nevada. Adam’s writting up a lot of fantastic stuff. And this Vette ( with the 350 LT1) is icing on the cake. And Curvette is digging and locating a lot of good finds too, thank you to both of you. Barnfinds has become a one stop shop for seeing anything from a Vette like this to a Buick Electra, to an Oliver Cletrac, to an Old Mack or Freightliner to a little Honda motorcycle, or an Australian Chrysler “Ute”. Its all here!!! Under one roof for our shopping convenience!! Thank you!!
I think it is gorgeous. All around, just a beautiful car. I did click on the Ebay listing, and am hoping that I am wrong, but the language around the motor can be interpreted as not a matching numbers motor. Maybe it is just poorly worded, but they go to lengths to state that “….the motor is a real deal LT-1, mated to its numbers matching transmission”. As in, I am sure it is an LT-1 but is it the original motor to this car???
best
bt
Nice car and a fair asking price, but mileage listed as 34,150, then 42,000 but looking at the odometer 43,682… close enough, but why understate by 1682 miles, doesn’t seem likely someone added 1682 miles while listed for sale. Also listening to the video you might think it has a 6 speed manual which we know it doesn’t. Plenty of photos, optional ‘available upgrades’ and in progress status… implies the price can increase like the mileage, only more. Might check out and be a good deal but some things, maybe just dealer marketing, seem a little fishy.
Finally someone can take excellent pictures, thanks.
My thoughts exactly Bill.
Absolutely stunning car! While the ’72 LT-1 was tamed down quite a bit from the ’70, it was still a nice performer and this would still give you a bit of a thrill to drive. This car is attractive enough that if I didn’t already own my “forever” Corvette this would for sure be on my radar. What a nice example of “Americas sports car”!
Is it just me or do the valve covers look small for a 454 engine?
The LT-1 is a 350, not a 454.
I owned a ’72 LT-1 car. This has the deluxe interior package which I think is sort of rare. Off the top of my head the smog pump & ignition shielding & starter shielding is missing. The lone under body shot is ok, but that oil pan what’s up with that? Then the ad says the trans is #’s matching, what about the block? It should be an “010 block” = Tonawanda plant, heavy duty truck block partial 4 bolt mains. That was the only 350 block used in corvettes thru model yr. 1972. I don’t think that 38K is out of line, but I’d go look at this before I sent a check.
Great write up Adam. I think the price is a little low for a low mileage survivor LT-1. I suspect like previously said it may not be the original engine which would bring the price down. Great color combo.
Nice vette! Regarding the shifter, remove the Hurst stick and replace it with a stock-appearing handle. They are available from a number of Corvette specialty retailers.
Auction ended with no takers.