Many enthusiasts can verify that there are times when tackling a project build can place a strain on household harmony. That may have been the case with this 1972 Chevrolet Corvette because it once starred in Super Chevy Magazine as the “Project Homewrecker” feature car. Its mechanical specifications are impressive, with its presentation equally stunning. The only thing it now needs is a new home. Therefore, the owner has listed it here on eBay in Kings Mountain, North Carolina. Bidding has passed to reserve to sit at $20,500.
My research indicates that work began on “Project Homewrecker” in around 2007, but some areas have evolved as time passed. No aspect of the car escaped its creator’s attention, including the panels and paint. The ‘Vette wears what I believe is Targa Blue paint, although the color varies slightly, depending on the light. I’m unsure whether I can describe it as perfect, but it won’t cause the new owner any embarrassment when they rock up at their local Cars & Coffee. The paint shines richly, with the fiberglass showing no evidence of flaws or cracks. The seller doesn’t mention rust issues, and the lack of corrosion elsewhere on this classic suggests the frame and birdcage should be structurally sound. The sparkling chrome provides a striking contrast to the deep blue paint, while there are no issues with the glass or wheels.
Lifting this Corvette’s hood reveals the most significant changes undertaken by its creator. This car rolled off the showroom floor powered by the desirable (and relatively expensive) LT1 version of the company’s 350ci V8. That small-block produced 255hp, but it is worth noting that it cost a whopping 40% more than the big-block option. When teamed with a four-speed manual transmission, the LT1 would propel the ‘Vette through the ¼-mile in 14.8 seconds on its way to a top speed of 137mph. The build process for this gem saw the LT1 make way for a 383 stroker motor full of performance upgrades, including a Crane camshaft, roller rockers, and aluminum Eliminator cylinder heads. The 383 sends its power to the rear wheels via a four-speed M22 Rock Crusher transmission. The seller doesn’t provide specific power or torque figures, but my research unearthed an article from 2014 where ongoing modifications had pushed power and torque to 376hp and 376 ft/lbs of torque at the rear wheels. Those numbers suggest this car should effortlessly return a sub-14-second ¼-mile ET. Although the initial build ended years ago, this classic has received ongoing TLC to ensure it is mechanically healthy. Therefore, the recently rebuilt transmission, new flywheel, new clutch, brake rotors, brake calipers, rebuilt booster, and sundry other mechanical upgrades should ensure there are no mechanical gremlins. The engine presents nicely, but it isn’t just a pretty face. The seller says it runs and drives extremely well, and is ready to head into the sunset with a new owner behind the wheel.
The spotless presentation continues when we examine this Corvette’s interior shots. Considering its mechanical upgrades, it is unsurprising to find an aftermarket JVC stereo occupying the spot normally reserved for the factory radio. Otherwise, the inside is pretty much as it left the factory. The Black leather upholstery shows no wear or other problems, with the same true of the dash, carpet, and plastic components. There are no missing parts and no items screaming for attention. It isn’t loaded with optional extras, but the new owner would appreciate the vintage aftermarket air conditioning and the tilt/telescopic wheel.
Although it is no longer original, this 1972 Corvette has much to offer its new owner. The presentation is difficult to fault, and the mechanical upgrades should guarantee this classic delivers stunning performance. The fact the owner includes a collection of magazine articles documenting its build adds to its attraction and should provide plenty of conversation-starting opportunities. Some purists might decry the changes made to what would have been a highly desirable classic in its original form, but the fact is that you can’t unscramble an omelet. Therefore, this Corvette is what it is, and someone will drive away in a few days behind the wheel of a car with performance that will plaster a mile-wide smile on their face. I can’t think of a downside to that scenario.
I used to own this car when I was editor of Super Chevy. The previous owner did a lot of research and spoke to every owner except the original owner, who was believed to be a woman (second owner was not entirely sure). Car had an Impala 350 in it when I purchased it and it was non-original metallic brown. Original LT-1 was gone by ‘73 or so.
I had a car in Super Chevy magazine a few years ago, back when Super Chevy sponsored the Super Chevy car show. Now an auto parts store sponsors the show.
Someone will get a nice Vette for a good price!
Drive it like you stole it!
👍😎
The color might be Bridge Hampton Blue Nice color in any case.
It is ’72 Targa Blue.
Man oh man. If I didn’t already have a Orange 72. I’d be all over this. Story of my life. Oh well. I really like Orange.
“Bidding has passed to reserve to sit at $20,500.”
Are you saying the reserve was under $20,500? How can that be?
I love the 72 model year vet but could someone tell me about the 350/350 Corvette?? Greg
Did the hp drop on the LT1 option in 72 along with many others in the Carter regime? I owned a 69 rag top/ hard top and before rebuilding the engine it was rated at 370 hp. Also as mentioned before, I find it interesting that many of those listed here do not mention distributer drive tach/ dual point system or they have replaced it with HEI or something else. It was a bear to maintain, but when tuned correctly, it made a big difference in performance. I miss the “good ole days” of yesteryear when Detroit rolled out some real iron.