If you’re the type of enthusiast who prioritizes performance over originality, you may find this 1972 Chevrolet Corvette irresistible. It doesn’t merely present well, because its sweet little small-block sports a range of upgrades that are designed to unleash plenty of extra power. Barn Finder Curvette spotted this classic for us, so a big thank you for that, Curvette. It is listed here on Craigslist in Clackamas, Oregon. The seller set their price at $27,000 for a car that should provide an exhilarating driving experience.

The 1972 model year marked the end of an era, and it wasn’t merely because it was the last where the Corvette wore chrome front bumpers. The vacuum-operated wiper door was destined for replacement, and buyers only had until the year’s end to order their Coupe with the removable rear window. The first owner ordered this ’72 in Mille Miglia Red, a color chosen by 2,478 buyers during that model year. That placed it about mid-range on the Corvette’s palette of ten colors, meaning that it probably adds little to the rarity of this classic. There is no mention of a previous reputation, and if this is a survivor, it has apparently led a fairly sheltered life. The paint shines nicely, the fiberglass is in good order, and there is no mention or evidence of rust. This package is rounded out by crisp glass and trim, and Rally wheels that are in good order.

The seller states that this Corvette is numbers-matching, featuring the ZQ3 version of the 350ci V8, a four-speed M21 manual transmission, a 3.36 Posi rear end, and power-assisted steering and brakes. The small-block was losing some of its sting by 1972, generating 200hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque. Those figures may now be somewhat irrelevant, with this engine breathing considerably better than when it left the factory. The seller ditched the original cylinder heads for a set of aluminum Edelbrock Performer heads. The intake is from the same manufacturer, topped by a Holley carburetor. An MSD ignition supplies a “fatter” spark, and the small-block’s spent gases exit via headers. Combine those items, and this classic should provide performance that recalls the badge’s glory days. The seller supplies no information regarding how this beauty runs or drives, but I see no reason why it shouldn’t be in excellent mechanical health.

This Corvette’s interior continues the theme of tidy presentation, with only slight carpet fading and wear on the console as faults worth mentioning. The listing suggests that the seatcovers and door trims may be new, while there are no apparent issues with the dash. Interestingly, the seller states that this car left the factory with air conditioning, but with no components under the hood, ice-cold air is not an option. Options that are present include power windows, an AM/FM radio, and a tilt/telescopic wheel, allowing the buyer to perfectly tailor their seating position.

If you aren’t a purist, what isn’t to like about this 1972 Chevrolet Corvette? The styling is a winner, while the presentation is excellent. The engine upgrades will return some of the performance that the C3 lost due to tighter emission regulations, making it a winner in my book. It has been on the market for a week, and I’m surprised that it hasn’t been snapped up already. Are you tempted to make a move on this Corvette, or do you prefer your classics unmolested?