1972 Chevrolet Corvette Restomod

Description

You don't see many resto-mod C3 Corvettes that aren't either "Corvette Summer" wacky or too high-tech for their own good, but this 1972 Chevrolet Corvette coupe strikes just the right balance between an authentic look and modern performance.

You'd better be at the top of your game if you're going to paint a car like this, particularly a Corvette's fiberglass shell. Fortunately, these guys knew their stuff and invested the time to make it super straight before any of that bright blue paint went on. None of the bodywork was modified and we particularly like the way the vented big block hood looks between the swooping front fenders. It's a classic look that's elegant and tasteful, not brash and arrogant, although the stripes certainly help with the aggression factor. Panel fit is excellent and the doors open and close with a reassuring solidity that is in stark contrast to the Corvette's reputation for squeaks and rattles. Chrome bumpers sparkle against the blue paint and are tucked in so tightly to the body that they almost look like extensions of the fiberglass, creating a very clean look. Side pipes are a Corvette tradition and they work rather well here and the four round taillights out back can be identified four blocks away. Tradition is alive and well in this 'Vette.

The black leather interior features seats that have been beautifully reupholstered in the original style so they look appropriate and still hug you tight in turns. Warm wood appliques help the monochromatic interior look a little more welcoming and it's obvious that a lot of time and effort were spent here. Original gauges look bright and sharp and if you have good dyes, you'll note that the shifter quadrant now has four forward gears instead of the original three, but we'll get to that in a moment. The steering wheel hangs on a factory tilt/telescope column and you'll be happy to find power windows are part of the package. An AM/FM stereo head unit lives in the dash and custom threshold sills were installed to give it an updated look when you climb in. And, of course, the T-tops fit well and seal up tight, but are easy to remove for that open-air experience.

A bit of modern tech makes the 383 cubic inch stroker motor feel as muscular as a big block and the light weight definitely improves handling. Fitted with dual quads and an MSD ignition system, it's a reliable combination that makes big torque at any speed. The aluminum Chevrolet valve covers and red accents certainly give the under-hood area an updated look and long-tube headers dump into those melodic side pipes. A big radiator with electric fan means this Corvette doesn't mind warm weather or waiting in traffic, and the brakes have been upgraded with an SSBC master cylinder. Underneath, there are many more upgrades, ranging from the aforementioned 700R4 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission to a composite leaf spring in the back to lower weight and improve performance. Big disc brakes are a Corvette trademark and the big red calipers show well through the spokes of those shiny Torque Thrust wheels, a favorite Corvette look. Big 245/45/17 Nitto radials are fitted at each corner to really improve the handling.

Beautifully built and tastefully modified, this Corvette coupe is a car that begs to be driven but doesn't mind being shown. Call today!