1972 Chevrolet Corvette T-top Coupe

Designer: William “Bill” Mitchell

Estimate: $37,000 - $45,000

Engine Number: 1Z37W2S504990
Decoded: 1=Chevrolet; Z=Corvette; 37=2-dr coupe; W=454 cid V8; 2=1972 model year; S=St. Louis assembly; 504990=4,490th 1972 Corvette scheduled for assembly

Engine: LS5 454 cid OHV V8
4-barrel Carburetor/270 bhp
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Power Assisted Four Wheel Hydraulic Disc Brakes

Odometer: 52,966 miles

Largest Displacement Factory Installed Engine
Desirable Color and Trim
Front and Rear Chrome Bumpers

The Model –As the fourth year of the third generation Corvettes dawned there were a number of changes on the landscape for performance vehicles in the USA, and the picture wasn’t exactly rosy. Due to a new formula for displaying horsepower ratings, the mighty 454 was downgraded to 270 HP, but it could still propel the Corvette to neck-snapping speeds in just a few moments. New federal regulations would soon be affecting the exterior appearance of all automobiles, but for 1972, Corvette was able to retain both front and rear real chrome bumpers for one last season. Sales saw a sharp increase over 1971 totals with a near 40% increase in coupes to 20,496, helping to secure the Corvette as America’s sports car. Its rakish style, open air T-top, ergonomically well laid out interior and lots of options, it was still the cat’s meow in the performance league and no one was ashamed to be seen in one of these beauties.

The Car – For 1972, there was still quite a bit of excitement left running through the veins of the Corvette engineers and designers. Starting with the W-code “LS5” 454 big-block V8, of which just over 3,900 customers also elected to choose, this powerful engine was backed up by the M21 close-ratio 4-speed transmission. Vibrant colors were a part of the Corvette legacy and code 989 was one of the hottest for 1972, War Bonnet Yellow. Actually more of a golden metallic, this car is accented with Saddle vinyl bucket seats. Treated to a cosmetic restoration a few years ago, the car has a light patina of use, but we are told, can really get out and light up the tires or cruise all day long at highway speeds. Also included are the original warranty booklets and GM Protect-O-Plate. Purchased new in Alabama, it appears to have been well taken care of with details like the original Rally wheels with Goodyear Eagle tires will insure that this Corvette will hug the road like a teenage couple on their first date. For the new owner, this might just be the answer to a mid-life crisis, or the spark that could put a little romance into a loving relationship.