Noted for being the last C3 to feature all chrome bumpers on both ends, the 1972 Chevrolet Corvette was also the final year to include those cool twin egg-crate grills up front, so it scores a bit stronger in the looks department than many of the remaining 70s models that followed. The seller of this 1972 Corvette here on Craigslist says it’s a barn find, and although that’s about all the historical information we get, this one appears complete and seems ripe for a quality restoration. Located in Largo, Florida, this droptop is also noteworthy for being priced under the ten grand mark, with the seller listing it at $9,345. A big shout-out goes to Barn Finds reader Chuck Foster for spotting this ‘Vette and sending us the tip!
This one is offered by Toy Store Corvettes, a southern business that’s been buying and selling these cars for about six decades. An online investigation reveals that the majority of customers seem pleased with their dealings with this company, as several of their Google reviews are 5-star. As is common with most dealerships, this one has been cleaned up as much as possible and detailed, right down to all four skins wearing that glossy tire shine that comes in a can. The Bryar Blue paint is somewhat faded, but looking below the surface, the fiberglass still appears solid, and likely wouldn’t take too much effort to prep for a respray. One item that will need some adjustment is the hood, as it’s not currently closing flush with the surrounding panels.
It appears that some fresh paint has been applied under the hood, at least on the easily accessible upper components, with overspray hitting a couple of fan blades. The engine is said to be a 350, but the seller notes NOM, an abbreviation for non-original motor. The small block is also described as non-running, with no additional details, so it’s unknown if the crank will still rotate. A missing radiator cap isn’t a good sign that this one’s had its coolant maintained, and there’s also no indication of how long this Corvette has been inoperative, and no word on the present state of the automatic transmission.
The interior displays the wear and tear to be expected on a 50-plus-year-old convertible, and fortunately, it seems pretty much complete. There’s some light surface rust on the shifter and a bit of funk inside the speedometer housing, plus no mention regarding the health of the underside or birdcage, so I might inquire and ask for a photo or two of the platform before committing to a purchase here. With the non-original, non-running 350, this one almost seems begging for something stronger, and I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s exactly what will happen here soon. How would you envision moving forward with this 1972 Chevrolet Corvette convertible?
Seems like a good deal for a chrome bumper vette if all checks out. Not my cup of tea as in a Corvette three pedals is a must for me. Somebody may get a nice addition to their collection though.
I’m seeing 8 to 10 grand in interior work if you do a the work yourself. Another 10 to 15 grand in body and paint work if you are lucky. Another 10 grand in surprises, getting her road worthy deep pockets!!
If you own a 1963-1972 Corvette, especially a convertible, it should have a 4 speed.
Every advanced species in the known universe agrees.
They should have had pictures on a lift of the underside such as frame, dog legs etc. The Florida sun shine state has in some areas affected many classics.
The seat covers , carpets sling with convertible top is an easy install for seasoned folks. (I have installed a couple over time with great tight and no wrinkles results with the trick of a hot garage heated to the 80s) .
The seats is taking time and replacing the foam etc.
Nice color…