Purchasing a classic can sometimes be a lucky dip, with buyers often unsure about the overall health of the vehicle they are considering. However, there seem to be no such questions hanging over this 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. The seller has recently spent a considerable sum on this gem, virtually guaranteeing that it should offer its next owner years of reliable and enjoyable motoring pleasure. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Rocco B. for spotting a car that seems to offer much to its next owner.

Chevrolet introduced the First Generation Monte Carlo to its model range in 1970 as its entry into the growing Personal Luxury Car market segment. It remained on sale until 1972, with our feature car rolling off the line during the final production year. The styling is typical of the era, but this Monte Carlo is prevented from blending into the background courtesy of the first owner’s decision to order it finished in Oasis Green Metallic with a White vinyl top. The impact is striking, and in keeping with a car with luxury leanings. The paint retains a deep and wonderful shine, with a strange defect on the driver’s door’s trailing edge as its most significant imperfection. That fault has left me scratching my head, but I’m sure that a reputable shop would be able to perform a repair relatively cheaply. The vinyl looks crisp and clean, while the trim and glass look excellent. The seller indicates that this Monte Carlo spent much of its life in Florida, helping to explain its rust-free status. The exterior shows no evidence of problems, and the underside shots reveal floors that are as clean as you could hope to find in any classic of this vintage. The new door and trunk seals represent the first signs of recent work performed by the seller and should keep dust and moisture at bay.

I view this Monte Carlo’s interior as its potential low point, and many readers might feel that I am treating it harshly. However, the cloth trim shows evidence of a couple of marks and stains, and I have a feeling that there might be a split on the driver’s side seatcover. I will qualify that by stating that the image angles might mean that these potential defects are a mere trick of the light. Only better photos or an in-person inspection would reveal the truth. The carpet is dirty and worn under the driver’s feet, but I would treat it to a deep clean to see if the situation improves before spending money on a new carpet set. Otherwise, the remaining vinyl trim is in good order, the headliner looks spotless, and there are no visible issues with the dash or pad. The seller confirms there is an under-dash four-speaker stereo, while this classic also scores air conditioning.

Powering this classic is Chevrolet’s iconic 350ci V8. The small-block produces 165hp and 280 ft/lbs of torque, which feeds to the road via a three-speed Hydramatic transmission. The presence of power-assisted steering and brakes helps cement this car’s luxury credentials. We’ve touched on the new door and trunk seals, but those are only the first examples of the considerable sum recently spent on this Monte Carlo. It sports a shiny new dual exhaust, new tires, a reconditioned fuel tank, a new sender unit, a fuel pump, and a rebuilt carburetor. The brakes feature a new master cylinder, lines, and rear wheel cylinders. A recent tune-up brought plugs, plug wires, a coil, points, and a distributor cap to the party. That list is long and should ensure that this gem is in excellent mechanical health. The seller provides no information concerning how it runs or drives, but I see no reason why the news would be anything but positive.

This 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo isn’t a trailer queen but is a very tidy driver that would cause the new owner no shame if they rocked up behind the wheel at a Cars & Coffee. Its lack of rust and list of recent work leaves the buyer with little to do but enjoy the classic motoring experience it seems to offer. However, there is scope for the buyer to get their hands dirty if an in-person inspection reveals that the interior defects that I mentioned are more than tricks of the light. The seller has listed the Monte Carlo here on Craigslist in Oakley, Michigan. Their price of $12,000 appears realistic and should see it head to a new home fairly quickly. The big question is whether you are tempted to make it yours.