Finding the perfect birthday present can sometimes be challenging, but the ideal gift for this 1972 Corvette’s fiftieth birthday would be a new home. The car presents well and appears to be solid and rust-free. The original owner ordered it with a desirable combination of options, but the seller’s decision to offer it for auction with No Reserve helps explain why it has already attracted thirty-one bids. The Corvette is listed here on eBay in Miami, Florida. The bidding has reached $14,400, and with No Reserve to act as an impediment, that fiftieth birthday present is only days away for this classic.
As with most years of C3 production, Chevrolet offered potential buyers ten paint shades from which to choose in 1972. This Corvette is 1-of-2,550 ordered wearing War Bonnet Yellow, representing 9.4% of total sales. The paint holds an impressive shine, with the seller not mentioning any prior restoration work. They emphasize the body’s condition and the consistent panel gaps, and I can’t spot anything to criticize on that front. There are no signs of significant spider-webbing or fatigue cracks and no evidence of prior accident damage. They say the frame and birdcage are rust-free, with the chrome and trim shining nicely for a survivor-grade car. The tinted glass is clean, and there are no visible issues with the Rally wheels.
Turning our attention to this Corvette’s interior provides more positive news. The original owner ordered the car trimmed in Black vinyl, and although it appears there might be minor problems developing on the driver’s seat, there is a chance that the seller might nip the issues in the bud. I am not sure, but there may be a seam separation beginning and light wear on the seat piping. The remaining upholstered surfaces show no such issues, so the problem could also be an optical illusion. The carpet is excellent, as are the dash and console. The car features an aftermarket stereo, but I can’t see any further additions. The original owner ticked the boxes beside some desirable options, meaning the buyer scores air conditioning, power windows, and a tilt/telescopic wheel.
The seller indicates this Corvette features its numbers-matching 350ci V8, while the original owner also selected a three-speed Hydramatic transmission and power steering. Although we receive no information on which version of the small-block this is, the odds are that it is the ZQ3 that produces 200hp. While it is hardly the most potent combination Chevrolet had in the cupboard, it could still launch this car through the ¼-mile in 15.9 seconds. It is worth noting that the mechanical configuration and interior appointments suggest the original owner focused more on comfort than outright performance when ordering this car. The seller states they recently replaced the master cylinder and brake calipers, but this beauty has no further needs. It runs and drives extremely well, meaning the successful bidder could fly in and treat themselves to a Miami vacation before driving home behind the wheel of this ‘Vette.
Although the seller admits this 1972 Corvette needs some TLC, its condition and presentation make a positive impression for a survivor-grade classic. It appears to have no immediate needs, meaning the successful bidder could complete any tasks as time and circumstances allow. Recent sales results suggest the bidding will probably run out of steam before it reaches $20,000, placing it at the top end of what many might consider an affordable classic. However, with values steadily climbing, that becomes a moving target. There are no certainties in the classic world, but this Corvette seems to tick the right boxes as an enjoyable car that is also a sound long-term investment. The bidding has been lively so far, and I believe it will intensify as the end draws near. Would you consider joining that party?
The passenger side door jamb shows the re-paint line. It’s a nicer color.
The paint on the passenger door is a different color than the rest of the car. The door has obviously been repainted, and the paint mismatched. The top part of the passenger side door that joins the fender has an opening that you could almost put your hand inside. The bottom part of the door fits better.
If the body repair person would have aligned the door better, then paint the entire passenger side, these imperfections usually go undetected?
Overall appears to be in good condition. The front end looks a bit low, as though it might need a bit of suspension work, such as new springs and/or new shock absorbers. I would go and check it out if on the market for one. It makes a positive impression!
Front height looks OK to me. Some warp in the camera lens. Left side shot better. Shocks have nothing to do with ride height unless fitted with too long gas units.
A plus, 72
A plus, no ugly luggage or t top rack on the back
A huge minus, auto.
I spent much of the late 70’s cruising the Miami disco scene in an identical 71 Vette. Land at midnight at Homestead (I was in the Air Force), and since the bars closed at 4-ish (they may not kick you out until closer to 5am) you still had time for a little action. Life was good.
Ah, ah, ah, ah, staying alive. Staying alive.
Nice Corvette that you could drive anywhere and since it’s not perfect you wouldn’t have to worry so much about rock chips, minor scratches, etc. Would be better with more hp and of course a four speed manual but still looks like a nice car to just drive around and enjoy. Always thought the 68-72 model year Corvettes were the best looking of all time (personal preference of course)-definitely worth checking out.