Description
1972 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C3 – 460 Big Block with a full rebuild, 4‑Speed Manual, Matching Numbers, Convertible.
A genuinely rare opportunity to acquire one of the most desirable C3 Corvettes ever built. This 1972 Stingray combines matching‑numbers 454 (460 full rebuild) Big Block power, 4‑speed manual transmission, chrome bumpers, and convertible bodywork. GM discontinued big‑block production and moved away from chrome bumpers and convertibles shortly after this model year, making surviving examples exceptionally scarce.
At the time of listing, this is the only 454 manual convertible C3 for sale in the UK, and one of only two available in Europe.
Specification & Presentation
- Factory colour: Classic White
- Interior: Saddle
- Roof: White soft top + matching White hardtop (with stand & storage bag)
- Factory equipment: Power Steering, 4‑wheel Power Disc Brakes, Electric Windows, Original AM/ FM Radio, steel wheels with original Rally trim rings and centers
- Rare Tilt & Telescopic Steering Column
- 3 point seatbelts
- Lighting: Upgraded to modern H1/ H4 lamps with twin relay protection
In 2014, the car has received a full respray in its original Classic White, presenting beautifully with good chrome work. New front carpets were fitted in 2026.
Mechanical Restoration & Upgrades
This Corvette has undergone significant mechanical refurbishment.
Brakes, Suspension & Steering
2017: Complete brake system renewal: discs, calipers, and upgraded new Hydratech Power Brake system
2018: Suspension arms, bushes and steering overhaul
2024: New correct 6‑over‑3 (9‑leaf) two‑stage 1360 lb rear spring + new rear shocks
Engine Rebuild – Stubbs Racing Engines (2025)
In 2024 the original engine suffered a spun con rod bearing. A full professional rebuild was carried out by Stubbs Racing Engines, Derby, completed spring 2025.
On teardown the engine was confirmed to be:
Totally original
Standard bore
4‑bolt main block — the strongest big‑block GM produced
The rebuild retained originality where sensible, while optimising for fast‑road performance:
Block rebored & skimmed
New standard GM crank (balanced & polished)
New pistons & rods,
Comp Cams cam & timing kit (K11‑236‑4 with RPM1411‑6 rockers & pushrods)
Edelbrock Performer RPM High‑Compression oval‑port heads (100cc chamber, 295cc intake)
increasing displacement to 460 cu in, Compression increased from 8. 5:1 to 9. 44:1
Original GM LS6 aluminium intake manifold
New Holley 4150 Double Pumper 650 CFM carburetor (0‑4777S) and Holley phenolic spacer.
August 2026 - Engine service completed by Dan Stubbs Racing Engines. Rocker arm lash checked and adjusted, timing checked and tweaked, carb recalibrated, oil and filter change. New passenger side exhaust manifold fitted as a crack opened up in the original.
September 2026 - New MSD coil and Pertronix ignitor II electronic ignition module.
History & Condition
Built: May 1972, St. Louis plant
Delivered: Draper Chevrolet, Saginaw, Michigan – 31 May 1972
UK history: Detailed records from 2014 onwards
US history: Original build sheet only
Mileage: 57, 000 (believed genuine)
All gauges and controls operate correctly, including the vacuum‑operated pop‑up headlights and wiper door system.
Only the clock is intermittent.
Factory alarm and 'seat belt not fastened lights' are non‑functional.
A pair of bluetooth speakers are fitted discretely to the rear of the car providing modern audio options.
Summary
This is a high‑quality, well‑sorted, matching‑numbers big‑block Corvette with the rare combination of manual transmission, chrome bumpers, convertible body, and documented professional engine rebuild. Its scarcity in the UK and Europe makes it an exceptional opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts seeking a mechanically strong C3.
Sensible offers will be considered.
