Have you ever heard an owner say they wished their classic had less power? No? Same here. That may be what makes this 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo an attractive proposition. The seller performed a few upgrades to its small-block V8, which will undoubtedly have unleashed some welcome additional ponies. It hides this extra performance beneath an exterior that presents well, with the same true of its interior. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this sweet ride listed here on eBay in Tavares, Florida. Bidding sits below the reserve at $14,700 with a BIN option of $21,900 for those wishing to bypass the auction process.

The 1972 model year marked the end of the line for the First Generation Monte Carlo. The company performed minor cosmetic upgrades for its swansong, and many enthusiasts prefer these cars to their successors because they were the last produced as genuine Hardtops. The industry anticipated more stringent rollover legislation, moving towards a “Colonnade” approach that would provide greater roof strength. This Monte Carlo presents beautifully in Copper Metallic with a contrasting Beige vinyl top. The photos tell the story because this classic has no genuine cosmetic shortcomings or evidence of rust. The trim looks exceptional, and the glass is clear. The wide Rally wheels add a sense of purpose that is in keeping with the mechanical upgrades performed on this classic.

Chevrolet targeted the Personal Luxury Car market with the 1972 Monte Carlo, an approach reflected in this car’s interior creature comforts. It features air conditioning, power windows, power locks, a tilt wheel, acres of faux walnut, and an AM radio. The seller added an underdash CD player with speakers mounted in the kick panels and rear parcel tray, with a timber wheel to improve driver comfort. There isn’t much to criticize inside this classic beyond the deterioration visible on the wheel spokes. The upholstered surfaces are free from wear and distress, and the carpet has only a few dirty marks on the outer edge. The gauges feature clear lenses and crisp markings, and the pad shows no evidence of UV damage.

Lifting the hood reveals the area where many potential buyers may believe that this Monte Carlo shines. It features a 350ci V8, a three-speed Hydramatic transmission, a Posi rear end, and power-assisted steering and brakes. Chevrolet quoted a power output of 165hp for the small-block, although most of the loss from the previous year’s figure was due to an industry change to quoting engine output in Net, rather than Gross terms. However, that is now irrelevant, because the best way to unleash extra performance from any motor is via improved breathing. This Monte Carlo ticks that box, courtesy of its Edelbrock intake, a four-barrel carburetor from the same company, Performance headers, and a dual exhaust. The results justified the cost and effort, with the seller stating that this motor produces plenty of torque and a nice bass rumble. The Monte Carlo is a turnkey proposition that the winning bidder can enjoy immediately.

There is a lot to like about this 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, and many potential buyers will welcome the improved performance provided by its sensibly modified small-block V8. It seems I am not alone in that sentiment, because this classic has already attracted sixteen bids. With the remaining listing statistics looking equally impressive, I suspect that people may have to bid hard to take this classic home. Are you up for that challenge?