1972 Chevrolet Corvette C3 Sport Coupe

Based on General Motors 1965 Mako Shark II show car, the new-for-1968 Corvette became a 'notchback' with removable rear window and detachable, two-piece 'T-Top' (Targa) roof. The roadster (or convertible) versions could be ordered with the optional hardtop. Five years after the Sting Ray's arrival, it was given a total re-styling. The 'Stingray' name was not officially applied to the new model until 1969.

The re-styled Stingray retained the recessed pop-up headlights while the windshield wipers were now concealed beneath a vacuum-operated panel. The chassis and underpinnings remained fundamentally unchanged, although a 'Positraction' (limited-slip) rear axle was newly standardized for 1972. By this point in history, Federal emissions legislation was beginning to cripple designs and power outputs, resulting in the optional 454 cubic-inch LS5 V8 engine producing 'only' 270 horsepower (a decrease from 365 horsepower the prior year).

This particular example is finished in period-correct Elkhart green metallic over a saddle interior. It was completed at the St. Louis GM plant and was according to the trim tag finished in 989 war bonnet yellow over 421 saddle. It left the factory powered by the LS5 454 CID V8 engine.

Around the mid-2000s, the current caretaker acquired the car and embarked on a comprehensive restoration.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2017