THE STORY

The 1972 Corvette was virtually unchanged from the 1971 offering. Because of this, production lines in the St. Louis Corvette plant were able to work in earnest to create a more trouble-free car.

1972 was the last year of the chrome bumper Corvettes. While most automakers charged extra for their convertibles, Chevy did not for this car. Priced at $5,296, the open car matched the hardtop in weight at 3,215 pounds, but it had much lower production total with just 6,508 units built.

Amongst the standard equipment for 1972 was a Positraction rear axle, fully independent rear suspension, a left-hand outside rear view mirror, all tinted glass, a flo-thru ventilation system; front and rear disc brakes, an electric clock, floor carpeting, wheel trim rings, all-vinyl upholstery and an anti-theft alarm system.

Chevrolet achieved front/rear weight distribution at 48/52% for the 350ci engines which resulted in better traction, braking and reduced steering effort. The car’s front suspension used upper and lower A-shaped arms with anti-dive geometry built into the upper control arms. Variable-rate coil springs were used and a hefty front stabilizer bar reduced roll.

1972 was the year that net horsepower ratings were introduced into the US and so all cars experienced an automatic drop in horsepower rating. The basic 350ci V8, produced 200 HP with an 8.5:1 compression ratio, 4-barrel carburetor, cast aluminum alloy pistons and precision-formed crank.

Seats were high-backed contoured buckets with built-in head restraints, the carpet extended to the rear stowage area with its hidden compartments for valuables, battery and tools. These cars had “Astro Ventilation” which brought in outside air through a choice of high or low vents. A rear deck vent exhausted stale air - for a constant flow - even with the windows closed.

THE CAR

Imported into Australia just over a year ago, this Corvette Stingray C3 is an outstanding number’s matching chrome bumper (final year) convertible. Finished in brand new Elkhart Green paint, she sports  beautiful complementary Saddle brown vinyl interior and a black convertible top in fantastic condition.

The car has its original, strong 350ci V8 engine with a newer performance intake manifold and 4-barrel carburettor.

The sound of the exhaust is astonishing and emits from the glorious side pipes which have been painted black to integrate with the dark green vehicle.

The Corvette 3 speed Turbo Hydra-Matic transmission shifts effortlessly and pushes the power to the original Positraction rear end.

The car has air conditioning (needs belt and gas), power steering, newly refurbished power brakes with 4-wheel discs and original wheels with brand new tyres.

Front end suspension work was undertaken prior to importation and the car handles well with smooth steering through the tilt telescopic steering wheel.

On historic registration in South Australia, this car is FAST, FUN and LOUD.