1971 or 1972 corvette

[Joe D.]

I just sold my 1961 corvette. Paid off some bills and have some money left over to buy a 71 or 72. Wanted to know if both years are pretty much the same. The 71's seem to be a little less expensive. I am just looking for a base model, 4 speed, no big blocks. Just would liketo know if either years had any problems i should look for. Thanks for your help, Joe

[Alan S.]

Re: 1971 or 1972 corvette

Joe,
I sent you an E-Mail, be on the lookout !
Regards,
Alan

[Patrick H.]

Re: 1971 or 1972 corvette

I've got one of each. Well, plus Dad's 72 makes 3 total.

The differences between the two years are nominal, no matter what anyone may say. I enjoy each of them and find more variance between cars based on condition and options than I do based on year.

I'd consider 70-72 as one group, and find the one you want.

Patrick

[Warren F.]

Re: 1971 or 1972 corvette

Joe,

There are a few differences between the '71 and '72 years, mostly to do with the interiors. I would base your decision on whether these small differences appeal to you.

1971 instrumentation is last year for the green phosphorescent gauge lettering and lighting, 1972 uses white lettering. 1971 data plate on center console states cubic inch, compression ratio, horsepower & torque, 1972 data plate is different layout and deletes horsepower data. 1971 is last year for similar style radio knobs, light knob, signal stem knobs. 1972 uses rubberized knobs. 1971 last year of stainless trim on pedals, 1972 has none. 1971 last year of fiberoptic light monitoring system, 1972 this system deleted. 1971 has a manual delete button for seatbelt light, 1972 deletes this and has a sensor in seat bottoms that activates a light that stays on until seat belt is attached. There are other differences.

[Terry M.]

Re: 1971 or 1972 corvette

If we are listing differences --
1971 has clear front parking lenses -- 1972 front parking lenses are amber
1971 (and early 1972s) have chrome interior rear view mirror housing -- 1972s have black coated mirror housing.
For the most part they are the same car. If one could drive each blindfolded I submit few could tell the difference.

[Tom H.]

Re: 1971 or 1972 corvette

I have a 71 base motor 4 speed. I can think of no real issues that would steer me away from another one. Easy to work on, fairly inexpensive, fun to drive, cool to look at and not to hard to find a nice one ! Best of luck in your search !

[Lyndon S.]

Re: 1971 or 1972 corvette

Well I could tell them a part, even if I were blindfolded .

Kelly

[Chuck S.]

Re: 1971 or 1972 corvette

Just be careful; You can be "Arrested...While driving blind" (ZZTop).