77k Original Miles: 1972 Chevrolet Corvette

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When searching for a C3 Corvette to park in their garage, potential buyers are spoiled for choice. The market is awash with candidates, but this 1972 model stands out from the crowd. It probably isn’t perfect, but it would be ideal for someone seeking a high-end driver. The C3 has a genuine 77,000 miles on its odometer, and the minor engine upgrades should have unlocked welcome performance improvements. The Corvette is listed here on eBay in Huntsville, Utah. Bidding has raced past the reserve to $16,100 following solid interest. There is still time for readers who find it irresistible to make a play for this classic.

I have always believed that the best approach to photographing a C3 Corvette is to aim for low shots. That angle accentuated the car’s swooping lines, and the seller’s decision to adopt that philosophy shows this Corvette at its best. The Ontario Orange gracing its panels was the most popular of the ten paint shades offered in 1972, with 4,891 buyers selecting that color. It shines beautifully, and while the seller doesn’t provide extreme close-ups, the supplied images show no signs of significant problems with the paint or fiberglass. The single underside photo reveals a minor dusting of surface corrosion but no penetrating rust that could compromise the car’s structural integrity. This was the final year when Chevrolet produced the Corvette with chrome bumpers at both ends and like the rest of the bright trim, these are in excellent condition. The glass looks flawless, and the 15″ Rally wheels are in as-new condition.

The seller doesn’t indicate whether this Corvette is numbers-matching, but I believe it rolled off the line equipped with the ZQ3 version of the company’s 350ci V8. That small-block sent 200hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. A 15.6-second ¼-mile ET was there for the taking, but this car might have more up its sleeve. The engine features an Edelbrock intake and Hooker long-tube competition headers. Improved breathing will always unlock extra power for those seeking performance gains, but these changes are reversible for those preferring authenticity. The seller describes the ‘Vette as being in perfect working condition, suggesting it runs and drives extremely well. It appears to be the ideal candidate for those seeking a turnkey classic.

The theme of spotless presentation continues when we examine this Corvette’s interior. The seller doesn’t mention any form of restoration. Therefore, its condition is particularly noteworthy if it is entirely original. The Black vinyl seatcovers show no signs of wear, with the door trims equally impressive. The carpet is free from the fading often seen in these classics, while the dash and pad are spotless. The gauges feature crisp markings and crystal-clear lenses. There are no aftermarket additions, and the factory AM/FM radio occupies its original spot in the console. I would like to believe this interior is original, but my instincts tell me someone has splashed some cash on a retrim.

This 1972 Corvette undoubtedly possesses the “wow” factor, making it easy to understand why it has attracted twenty-four bids. Finding anything to criticize is virtually impossible, and reversing the changes under the hood shouldn’t present the new owner with many obstacles. Someone is only days away from driving away in this beauty. With warm weather just around the corner, the idea of hitting the road for some relaxed summer cruising is an enticing prospect. You may have found the ideal candidate if a spotless C3 has been on your radar. Are you tempted?

Auctions Ending Soon

Comments

  1. Beauwayne5000

    Orange is the New Black & its color has come back.
    A totally NOW car here in Europe-u.s. not so much.
    It’d command +50% whatever it sells for but IN MUNICH a serious car city BMW HQ this particular model an easy 60-80k Euro after euro side marker lights are added.
    Nothing else needs done.
    These are even more sought after in China as status symbols.
    But you must have ccp connections to import them.

    Like 1
    • JoeNYWF64

      & plenty money for gas, espec if 1 has a big block, multiple carbs & performance rear axle ratio.

      Like 0
    • Frank Sumatra

      I have always been impressed by the folks belonging to the overseas NCRS Chapters. That is true commitment to the Corvette hobby.

      Like 2
  2. skidmarc

    I believe this ‘vette came with the LT-1 not the base ZQ3. From 1969 on, C3s had the engine specs below the shifter. Looks like 1972 they only list the torque and compression ratio since manufacturers switched to net HP ratings. I know the earlier years show HP number not torque. This one says 360 ft/lbs torque, 8.5:1 compression. Those are LT-1 numbers.

    Like 6
    • EDWARD O WEHRLE

      In 1972 LT-1 equipped cars were identified with a “L” in the vin number. That is where one could verify a factory equipped LT-1.

      Like 0
    • Ashtray

      I also think this is a very beautiful car. I agree with Adam and some of the other post, everything probably isn’t original…I’m pretty sure the seats aren’t, but that’s ok with me.
      I always liked the Corvettes with the chromed from and rear bumpers. I believe this model year to be the last year?
      This is still very affordable and I’m surprised the bidding hasn’t reached a higher number?
      If I ever get another Corvette it will be an older one like this, or a really new one. Some of the in between one’s just doesn’t appeal to me.
      I had an 82, then I bought a 1984 when they came out.

      I’m sure the new owner will be elated.
      Just my oponion!

      Like 3
    • moosie moosie

      @ skidmarc, I’m pretty sure the compression ratio for 71 & 72 LT-1 motors was 9.0:1 , besides that the car listed has the wrong hood for an LT-1 . It is a very nice car anyways, I’d love to own it .

      Like 6
      • 370zpp 370zpp

        My 71 convertible was also this color. Sold it in 76, and even then was not as nice as this one.
        Definitely a new interior here, and definitely not an LT-1 hood.

        Like 1
    • zak

      I own a 72 Corvette with base engine purchased new and the engine specs on plate below shifter show 360 ft/lbs torque and 8.5 compression, so yes, this has the base engine not an LT-1

      Like 3
    • zak

      I own a 72 Corvette with base engine purchased new and the plate below shifter states 360 ft/lbs torque and 8.5 compression so yes, this does have the base engine not originally an LT-1

      Like 0
    • Keith

      8.5 :1 compression is not an LT1

      Like 0
    • Rocco

      The LT1 had a special hood which this Vette doesn’t!! How can you read what the shifter plate says!!?? 🤷🤨

      Like 0
  3. bobhess bobhessMember

    Certainly agree on the Wow! factor. Beautiful car. As a tried and true lover of orange cars this one really stands out to me.

    Like 3
  4. Dan

    The high bidding for this C3 doesn’t surprise me. The mileage is high enough so that you can use it as a driver without jeopardizing its value a lot, just coddle it and you’ll have a survivor that will only appreciate in value because it’s a chrome bumper C3. This one will be well bought, even past the reserve.

    Like 2
  5. george mattar

    I passed on an exact duplicate of this car in 2015 for $13,000 and instead bought a silver 73 coupe 4 speed for $10,000, as the car was in better condition. I didn’t buy it to make money and having owned a 71, almost identical to a 72, except for a few differences, my 73 rides better than the 71 ever did. And I don’t have to deal with that stupid vacuum wiper system. Nice car here.

    Like 1
  6. PRA4SNW PRA4SNWMember

    Another vehicle completely removed from EBay. Yet another scam(?).

    Like 0
  7. PRA4SNW PRA4SNWMember

    Yep, another scam. This one was sold on BAT on 6/9/23 for 29K.
    Identical pictures as posted here.

    Like 1

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