1972 Corvette

Our 1972 Corvette convertible is special less because of rarity or horsepower and more because it represents the final, beautifully styled version of the early C3.

• Last dual-chrome-bumper Corvette: For 1973 the front chrome bumper was replaced by a body-colored urethane nose; the rear chrome bumpers disappeared after 1973. Thus, 1972 was the final Corvette with chrome at both ends. Chevrolet itself identifies 1972 as the last chrome-bumper year. GM Heritage
• Last hidden-wiper design: The vacuum-operated door concealed the windshield wipers, preserving the smooth Mako Shark profile. That feature disappeared for 1973.
• Relatively uncommon convertible: Only 6,508 convertibles were built, versus 20,496 coupes. The convertible would disappear after 1975 and not return until 1986.
• Mille Miglia Red: Chevrolet painted 2,478 Corvettes that color, although records do not show how many were convertibles. 
• Friendly base engine: The standard ZQ3 350 used a Rochester Quadrajet, hydraulic lifters and 8.5:1 compression. Rated at 200 SAE net horsepower, it isn’t the most collectible engine, but it is smoother, less temperamental and generally less expensive to maintain than the LT-1 or 454.
• The horsepower figure is deceptive: Starting in 1972, manufacturers reported SAE net output with accessories and exhaust installed. Therefore, its 200-hp rating should not be directly compared with earlier gross ratings; the apparent decline was partly a change in measurement.

The base engine does not make it especially rare, but it arguably makes it a better relaxed touring car. You get the iconic chrome-bumper C3 appearance, top-down driving and traditional small-block sound without the price, heat or maintenance associated with the high-performance engines.

Its value depends heavily on frame and birdcage condition, original paint code, matching engine, and whether the car still has its factory components. A sound, documented, Mille Miglia Red example is a highly appealing driver-quality classic—even if it isn’t the highest-dollar 1972 configuration.

The picture below with a gentleman and his daughter is at a book signing.  He is the original owner, and this 1972 Corvette is in the background.