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Year 1955 Manual Transmissions 75 Units
Corvette Photos
Year 1964 327 ci / 300 HP 10,471 Units
Corvette Photos
Year 1996 Coupe base Price $ 36,785

1972 - More Mandated Changes in Performance

The appearance changes were again minimal for 1972. The 1972 Corvette was the last to feature front and rear chrome bumpers, a bright "egg crate" grill, side fender grills and the removable rear window. This was the last year for the RPO-LT1 and RPO-ZR1, although the ZR1 code was again used in 1990 and the LT1 designated a new base engine in 1992.

Changes in Power Rating
Beginning in 1972 and continuing thereafter, horsepower would be measured as "net" rather than the "gross" ratings of earlier years. The government mandated safety changes and manufacturers were reducing horsepower because of changes in gasoline octane ratings too. A Corvette produced after 1972 had displayed less horsepower than previous models. But do not make the mistake of comparing the old "Gross horsepower rating" to the newer "Net horsepower rating." Some post-1972 Corvettes were faster than their predecessors even though their horsepower numbers were lower.
Some Models Favored by Collectors
Most Corvettes from this time are less desirable by serious collectors than earlier models. Because of government mandated changes in performance, the typical 1972 Corvette may not be considered collectable. But the LT1 and ZR1 models are somewhat collectable among because of their rare production numbers.
1972 Specifications
Wheelbase: 98" Track: 58.7" Front / 59.4" Rear
Height: 47.8" Coupe Length: 182.5"
Width: 69" Curb Weight: 3,305 lbs.
Tire Size: F70x15" Plant: St. Louis