Deciding to part with a classic that has been part of your life for over five decades is never easy, but it is the choice made by the owners of this 1972 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible. It has been a cherished member of the family since Day One, but the time has come for this classic to embark on fresh adventures. It presents exceptionally well and is guaranteed to attract its share of positive comments. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P for spotting the Corvette listed here on Craigslist in Todd Creek, Colorado. The seller set their price for this gem at $26,000 OBO.
I have always believed that there is no better angle to photograph a C3 Corvette than from ground level. That approach helps to accentuate the bold styling and the car’s swooping lines. That makes the seller’s listing images worthwhile because they play to the car’s strengths. Chevrolet offered buyers a choice of ten paint colors in 1972, with this car wearing War Bonnet Yellow, which 2,550 buyers selected. The paint shines richly, and there is no evidence of fiberglass issues. The seller confirms that the Corvette wears its factory shade but does not confirm whether it has received a cosmetic refresh. However, since they mention refurbishment in other areas, it is possible that this car’s paint was applied at the factory. The White soft-top appears to be in good condition, sporting only the typical wrinkles that develop when lowered for extended periods. The trim is impressive, and the glass is clear.
The owner didn’t go overboard when ordering this Corvette. They chose the L48 version of the 350ci V8 and a four-speed manual transmission, but passed on such luxuries as power steering and power brakes. The small-block delivers 200hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque, and while that seems like a dramatic drop from the previous year’s 270hp and 360 ft/lbs, it is worth noting that most of the difference resulted from a move to quoting output figures in Net terms in 1972. Otherwise, there was little to distinguish the performance of this car from that of an identical 1971 example. The seller provides a long-term insight into the Convertible’s maintenance history, suggesting they have been meticulous in their approach. They state that it needs new tires, but otherwise, this number-matching classic is a turnkey proposition.
Classic Convertibles and substandard interiors pose unique challenges, making it almost impossible to hide shortcomings with the top down. The buyer will have no such issues with this Corvette. The owners treated it to a retrim in its original Saddle vinyl, and although the images are lacking, the condition looks excellent. There is no evidence of wear on the upholstered surfaces, and the plastic looks acceptable for a survivor-grade vehicle. The owner didn’t splash much cash inside this ‘Vette, with the AM/FM radio the only factory option. They state that the radio is inoperative, and I’m sure no readers will collapse from shock when I say the clock doesn’t work either.
This 1972 Corvette Convertible is a wonderful classic that can still turn heads fifty-four years after it rolled off the showroom floor. Its condition reflects a sheltered life, and choosing to part with it must have been a tough call. However, it means that someone has the opportunity to write a new chapter in its story, one that should see it plying our roads for another five decades. Therefore, if you’re seeking a classic that could become a family heirloom, this Corvette could be the ideal candidate.
They never get old. Beautiful.