1972 Corvette ZR2 Is Both Stunning and Rare as One of Just 20 Built

What it lacks in sheer power, this 1972 Corvette ZR2 more than makes up for in many other ways.

Simply saying that a Corvette is “rare” doesn’t really mean much, given the fact that, well, there are so many rare models that have been built over the sport car’s seven decades in existence. Oftentimes, rare Corvettes are only rare because of the color they’re finished in or perhaps a specific option or two. But this 1972 Corvette ZR2 that’s going up for grabs at Mecum’s Kissimmee, Florida auction – which takes place on January 4-15 – is certifiably rare as one of just 20 built in total.

With the L88 in its rear-view, the ZR1 took over for 1970 as the track-focused Corvette of choice for racers, though it followed the same formula – tack on a bunch of hardcore components and remove stuff that isn’t needed to reduce weight, all in the name of performance. However, instead of going with a big block, the automaker chose to give it the venerable LT1 350 V8, which generated 370 horsepower in 1970, though that number had diminished to just 255 by 1972.

That powerplant is mated to the familiar M22 Rock Crusher close-ratio manual transmission, but the ’72 ZR1 also featured goodies such as heavy-duty power brakes, a transistorized ignition, an upgraded aluminum radiator, and unique springs, shocks, and stabilizer bars. This particular C3 is finished in Bryar Blue with a black leather interior, Rally wheels, and Firestone Wide Oval tires, giving it the perfect period look.

Sold new at Hallman’s Central Chevrolet Co. in Rochester, New York, this 1972 Corvette ZR1 was part of the Ed Foss Collection for a while, and has also acquired some prestigious hardware including Bloomington Gold Certification in 2019, where it was also part of “The Sharks 1968-1972” Gold Collection.

As one of just 20 built, this Corvette ZR1 undeniably rare and quite special, though it’s also – by far – the least powerful C3 ZR1 built across a three-year span. Regardless, that means that someone is likely going to get one of the rarer Corvettes ever built for far less money than most, which makes it an enticing offering for certain.

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Photos: Mecum Auctions