The 1972 Chevrolet Corvette sits at a meaningful crossroads in the model’s history, blending the raw character of earlier C3 cars with subtle refinements that made them more livable on the road. Listed here on eBay, this particular example is a convertible finished in orange with a black interior, showing just 39,000 miles and carrying a clean title. With only two reported owners, it presents as a relatively untouched Corvette that still reflects the spirit of the era.
Power comes from a 350 cubic-inch V8 paired with a manual transmission, sending power to the rear wheels in classic Corvette fashion. The 1972 model year is often appreciated for retaining chrome bumpers front and rear while being the final year before significant emissions-related changes reshaped performance across the industry. As such, these cars are frequently viewed as the last of a more traditional Corvette formula, especially when equipped with a V8 and manual gearbox.
This Corvette is configured as a two-seat convertible, staying true to the model’s performance-first identity. The black interior offers a straightforward, driver-focused layout that emphasizes function over flash, while the open-top design adds another layer of appeal for enthusiasts who enjoy the full sensory experience of a classic sports car. With its removable soft top and compact cockpit, this is the kind of car that invites weekend drives rather than garage-only storage.
The exterior is finished in orange, a color that suits the dramatic body lines of the C3 Corvette particularly well. The long hood, flared fenders, and muscular proportions remain some of the most recognizable shapes Chevrolet ever produced. While condition details beyond mileage and originality are limited, the low odometer reading and clean title suggest a car that has been preserved rather than heavily modified or raced.
With a reported 39,000 miles, this Corvette occupies an appealing middle ground. It’s not a delivery-mile time capsule, but it’s also far from a worn-out example. That makes it a strong candidate for an enthusiast who wants to enjoy driving a classic Corvette without feeling guilty about adding miles. The manual transmission further enhances that appeal, offering a more connected and engaging driving experience than its automatic counterparts.
For collectors and drivers alike, 1972 Corvettes continue to draw interest for their blend of classic styling, manageable size, and traditional V8 power. This orange convertible, with its low mileage, limited ownership history, and clean title, stands out as a compelling example from a highly desirable year. Would you keep it as a preserved classic, or put it to work as a summer cruiser?
It’s an auction, the current bid is $22,600 (09:05 PST), and it’s located in Austin, TX.
Nice script Elizabeth, This car is a perfect driver, maybe paint down the road. I wouldn’t change a thing and 68-73…my favorite vette!
Same here.
Weird how under Item Specifics there is a brief description of an 89 with a 5 speed. The more detailed description is accurate.
Bad copy and paste from a previous ad?
22,900 and 40+ bids.
Nice car.
I know, I know, but anything under $30k for a chrome bumper car is a nice (not a bargain) buy. A few rough spots in the paint, and what appears to be lathered on wax, but nothing a complete detail couldn’t fix. No repaint, just a paint correction.
Is that a lifetime Midas muffler on there with the hole in it?
Not my taste, but if it were! Presents beautifully.
Basically a one-owner car, having been purchased by 2 different dealers. The fact that it spent its life in South Dakota might be worrisome, but it looks like it was garaged and only used when there was no salt on the roads. Interesting history of transfer that got it to Austin, TX (which could have been noted in the article, but as usual, wasn’t).
After the 62, this is my personal favorite Vette.
And to JoeNYWF64, your Midas muffler comment made me chuckle. Good one.
I have to say; looking at the pictures, with the wear that is showing, tells me that it has much more than 39000 miles. It needs new paint badly, new door panels, new top (And where is the hard top for it?) Rag top looks great until you see the knife slit that someone put in it.
The hardtop was an option and a low percentage of buyers actually went for it.
And a few optioned for 2 hardtops 1 in the body color and 1 with a vinyl top
Yep, those vinyl covered hardtops are hen’s teeth.
Somebody’s not good at math! Seller says car is 44 yrs. old. Try 54 yrs. old!
This seems to be an excellent choice for a driver quality chrome bumper C3. Actually the color first caught my eye. I like it. I’m watching it just like quite a few others. I’m thinking it’s going to take a mid thirties bid to meet the reserve. Maybe more. I sometimes miss my 1972 coupe. These Corvettes are a blast to drive. Because this is a convertible; I might actually be able to sit upright in it. The seller states that the seats have new foam. After I did that to my coupe way back when; I had insufficient headroom. I had to drive with the T-Tops off. Such a sacrifice, lol. GLWTS.
Looks like a nice original, even the problem areas on the underside look okay.
As mentioned above, the paint may be able to be re-worked, but if not, there’s a huge expense to consider.
It will be interesting to see where this one ends up.
SOLD for $25,600.
46 bids.
I consider this well bought.