1972 Corvette Stingray C3 – Big Block with full rebuild, 4‑Speed Manual, Convertible

[MilkyNoSugar]

My 1972 Stingray combines matching‑numbers 454 (460 rebuild) Big Block power, 4‑speed manual transmission, chrome bumpers, and convertible bodywork.
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
  • Factory steel wheels with original Rally trim rings and centres
• Tilt & Telescopic Steering Column
• 3 point seatbelts
• Lighting: Upgraded to modern H1/H4 lamps with twin relay protection

The car has received a full respray in 2014in its original Classic White, presenting beautifully with good chromework. 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 an engine failure on the way to the Nationals at Sywell. It had a failed 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
• GM LS6 aluminium intake manifold
• New Holley 4150 Double Pumper 650 CFM carburetor + Holley phenolic spacer

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.

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.

Price - £53,750​

The price has been quite hard to gauge given how rarely these come up for sale, so I am genuinely open to sensible offers.

I have lots more photos and videos available. Get in touch and I can share a link.