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1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo

The '72 Monte Carlo? A total classic! Sleek, sporty, and a huge hit, it defined 70s cool. Its long hood, fastback roofline, and hidden headlights were instantly recognizable. A true muscle car era icon, it remains a beloved piece of automotive history.

Unveiling the Chevrolet Monte Carlo: A Classic Car Love Affair

Imagine a world where luxury met performance on roller-painted streets, leaving behind a cloud of burnt rubber. That's the essence of the Chevrolet Monte Carlo, folks. Introduced in 1970, this classic beauty has been celebrated in automotive lore as both a luxurious cruiser and a speed demon, finding its way into the laps of the famous and the films we just can't get enough of.

Photo of a 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo

1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Chevrolet Monte Carlo Worth?

Original MSRP :$3,362.00

Outstanding

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$42,800

Clean

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$30,300

Average

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$22,500*

Rough

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$13,800

1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Specs

Body Maker: Fisher
No. Of Doors: 2
Passengers: 5
Model Number: 1H57
Length: 206.5 inches
Width: 75.6 inches
Height: 52.9 inches
Wheelbase: 116 inches
Weight: 3,505lbs
Type: V8, OHV, Dual downdraft, Fully synchronous 3-speed manual
Displacement: 350 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 4 & 3.48 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 8.5 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 165@4000
Horsepower Rated: 51.2
Torque: 280@2400
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic
Engine Number Location: On pad at front right side of cylinder block.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Rochester
Type:
3 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
10 1/3 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.85 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.68
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
2.95
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.08 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Coil link
Service Type: Power front disc, rear self-adjusting drum
Service Front Size: 11 inches
Service Rear Size: 9.5 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 9.5 inches
Tire Size: G78 x 15
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 19 Gallons
Oil: 4 Quarts
Rear Differential: 3.5 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:Starting 1H57H2a100001
Total Digits:13
Digits 1:Make
Digits 2:Series
Digits 3-4:Body style
Digits 5:Engine
Digits 6:Model year
Digits 7:Assembly plant
Digits 8-13:Production number
All colors may not be available in all models., Tuxedo Black, Mulsanne Blue Metallic, Fathom Blue Metallic, Cranberry Red, Classic White, Antique White, Ascot Blue Metallic, Mediterranean Blue, War Bonnet Yellow, Ontario Orange, Steel Cities Gray, Pewter Silver Metallic, Dusk Gray Metallic, Targa Blue Metallic, Spring Green Metallic, Bryar Blue Metallic, Gulf Green Metallic, Oasis Green Metallic, Elkhart Green Metallic, Sequoia Green Metallic, Covert Tan, Sunflower Yellow, Placer Gold Metallic, Desert Gold Metallic, Cream Yellow, Golden Brown Metallic, Turin Tan, Driftwood, Mojave Gold Metallic, Orange Flame Metallic, Midnight Bronze Metallic, Aegean Brown Metallic, Mille Miglia Red, Bamboo
Sport Coupe: Opt
400 Cu. In. V8 Engine: Opt
350 Cu. In. V8 Engine: Opt
454 Cu. In. V8 Engine: Opt
Power Windows: Opt
Air Conditioning: Opt
Power Seats: Opt
Radio: Opt
Speed Control Device: Opt

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History of the Chevrolet Monte Carlo

Born in the disco-laden '70s, the Monte Carlo was Chevy's dive into the personal luxury car market. The first-gen rides, crafted from 1970 to 1972, boasted a striking long-hood-short-deck design that whispered style while quietly yelling speed. Fast forward to 1972, and the Monte Carlo was still winning hearts with its customizable allure, a feature that allowed owners to really make this car their own.

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Popular Figures Who Own the Monte Carlo

When a car finds its way into the lifestyle of the rich and the famous, it achieves a legendary status. Suddenly, it's not just a vehicle—it's an icon. Let's take a peek into those who proudly roll with the Monte Carlo.

Martina McBride

This country music starlet owns a 1972 Monte Carlo that she cherishes as more than just four wheels and an engine. It's entwined with her personal narrative, serving as both a symbol of journey and joy. Such cars are often like family heirlooms—passing stories from one generation to the next.

Ryan Gosling

Ever seen "Drive" (2011)? Yep, Ryan Gosling's character made a stripped-down Monte Carlo look cooler than a popsicle in the summer. Even in primer-gray, the car was a silhouette of rebellion, reminding us that sometimes grit equals glamour.

Denzel Washington

In "Training Day" (2001), Denzel's Alonzo Harris drove a 1972 Monte Carlo, marking it as a perfect extension of his gritty persona. It's like the car was another character in the film—flawed, intense, and unforgettable.

The Monte Carlo in Pop Culture

Ah, the good old Monte Carlo. This car's been a star in movies, a powerhouse in music references, and a little piece of automotive heaven in the realms of NASCAR and street racing.

Film and Television Appearances

From "Training Day" to the "Fast & Furious" franchise and its iconic moments in "Tokyo Drift," the Monte Carlo has always stolen the show. Remember that scene in "Talladega Nights"? Yeah, the Monte was there too, basking in the spotlight as an automotive legend.

Music References

With lines dropped in tracks like Rick Ross's "Aston Martin Music," cars like the Monte Carlo live on in lyrical allusions—symbols of status and style ingrained in the fabric of culture.

Performance Highlights and Achievements

Here's the thing about the Monte Carlo: it wasn't just about looking good—it was a powerhouse. The SS 454 variant with its 360-hp engine turned heads on the track, and even today, when Allan Whitaker took it roaring past the competition during the 2023 HOT ROD Drag Week, it showed that old-school charm never really dies.

Values in the Market

With more than 180,000 units produced in 1972, Monte Carlos are hot stuff on the collector's market. Prices for a well-kept model can go anywhere from $15,000 to over $35,000. But if you're lucky, or just plain charming, you might snag one for a steal.

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A recommendation? Use a and a . Get those insights before you make that leap!

Whether you want a or need to , remember, each digit has a tale. And while we're at it, understanding your car's DNA—its build, specs, and custom choices—well, a could be the treasure map to that one-of-a-kind find.

In essence, classic cars aren't just metal and rubber; they're living stories on wheels. They're history you can drive.

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Explore Chevrolet Monte Carlo from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

The '72 Monte Carlo? Man, it's a real head-turner. You'll spot it a mile away with its sharp lines, that long hood, and that distinctive Coke-bottle shape – it’s like a sleek, stylish spaceship, you know? Key features include the formal roofline, the hidden headlights (super cool!), and the wraparound rear window. Oh, and let's not forget those iconic rear taillights – they’re unmistakable. Really, it's a beautiful machine; a design classic. The overall profile is so unique to that year; you won't mistake it for any other model.

Okay, so the engine choices back in '72 were pretty sweet. You could get a range of small-block V8s, from a rather tame 307 cubic inch all the way up to a punchy 454 big block – that's some serious horsepower. There was also a straight-six, a 250 cubic inch, for those who preferred a bit more economy. However, most folks went for the V8s, because, come on, who doesn't want a powerful V8 in their muscle car, right? It's pretty much a given, especially for a car as iconic as the Monte Carlo.

Well, condition is everything – think of it like this: a pristine, perfectly restored Monte Carlo is worth a pretty penny; it's like finding a diamond in the rough (or rather, a classic car in a garage!). On the other hand, a neglected one, needing serious TLC… well, that changes things a bit. Options also play a big role. Rare factory options and any documented history are like gold, seriously. A numbers matching engine and original interior, especially in great shape, will increase the value way more than you’d think. The higher the condition, the rarer the options, the higher the price, right? Makes sense.

Like any classic car, it's not without its quirks. You’ll often see brake issues (those old systems do need some love!), electrical gremlins, and potential problems with the carburetor and other things that age just like us! Rust is also a real enemy, especially in areas with harsh winters; think of it like a slow, insidious creeping vine. Regular maintenance is key – think of it as preventative medicine. But, hey, that’s half the fun of owning a classic car, right? You get to know your machine intimately; it’s an ongoing project of love and restoration.

Finding parts for a '72 Monte Carlo isn't as hard as you might think; there are tons of resources out there for parts; it's not like they're a super-obscure vehicle. Online retailers specialize in classic car parts – lots of places have online catalogs, and there are also many specialized shops and forums dedicated to this car. Plus, swap meets and classic car shows are great places to source parts and connect with other enthusiasts. It's a whole community, you know? You'll find that community is very passionate and helpful too.