As the last Corvette to feature slim chrome front and rear bumpers, the 1972 models bridged the gap between the more unbridled 1968-1972 Corvettes and the 1973-1982 “rubber bumper” cars that followed. This incredibly decorated example from 1972 is a collector-grade Corvette with just 8,925 actual miles. Produced on May 9, 1972, it was delivered new to Hawkeye Motor Company in Burlington, Iowa (Dealer Code 279 in Zone 47), per the official NCRS/GM Shipping Data record accompanying it. A thrilling find in such original, unadulterated and unrestored condition, this Corvette maintains its original Bryar Blue paint with a black interior. In addition to the original, matching-numbers 350 CI V-8 engine, Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic transmission and 3.08:1 Positraction rear end, the Corvette also retains its factory-original body/trim tag. Other choice highlights include factory air conditioning, power steering, power brakes, an AM/ FM radio, an audio alarm system, tinted glass, Rally wheels, the original exhaust and an incredibly rare set of original date- coded Firestone Super Sport white-stripe tires. Most all of the factory-correct type components are present and accounted for including the spare, jack, jack tools, floor mats, T-Top bags, shocks, seat belts, washer system, shifter, shielding, air cleaner, alternator, distributor, spark plug shields, hoses, hose clamps, window glass, rocker covers, starter, No. 2202 carburetor, ball joints, radiator, gas door assembly and T-3 headlights. Predictably, Bloomington Gold, Survivor and Benchmark certification was accorded to this veritable time capsule Corvette in 2018. In terms of significance, Benchmark certification recognizes each recipient as not only being unrestored, a quality recognized in Survivor judging, but also that the Corvette remains in showroom condition, exactly as it was upon delivery from the factory, with the unavoidable exception of aging. Bloomington Gold Benchmark status is, by definition, the most important distinction in the organization’s entire Corvette judging regime, one awarded to fewer than 250 Corvettes produced from 1953 to 1972. Additional honors and accolades include the NCRS Top Flight award in 2017, NCRS Regional Top Flight with a judging score of 98.9% in 2022, and the NCRS National 4-Star Bowtie award in 2022. At MCACN, the Corvette received Concours Gold and Triple Diamond certifications in 2018 and 2022. Additionally, this Corvette was selected for the MCACN Invitational Class of 1972 display. Impressive documents include almost all factory and dealer paperwork including the window sticker, judging awards, CCAS/Grenning engine block, stamp pad and engine stamp affirmations, ownership history, photos, correspondence and multiple three-ring binders inside two large file boxes.
