1972 Chevrolet Chevelle LS5 SS Convertible
The 1972 Chevelle seemed to be following in the tread marks of other muscle cars of the time, declining in power to meet emissions standards.
A new rule had engines reporting their net horsepower rather than their gross, so power numbers fell through the floor.
The 350-ci V8 was now rated at 175 horsepower, even though the engine did not change. The top engine was the LS5 available in the SS 454, rated at 270 horsepower.
The exterior was not changed much from the 1971 model, except that single-unit front turn signals were introduced. The 15″ Super Sport wheels are wrapped in 245/60 Cooper Cobra Radial G/T white-letter tires. The car is equipped with power steering, and braking is provided by power-assisted front discs and rear drums. The shock absorbers, control arm bushings, spindle bearings, and brakes lines are said to have been replaced during the refurbishment.
The U14 Instrument Panel gauges were still optional however and the U14 gauge option could also be ordered on a non-SS Malibu coupe, convertible, or pickup. The same ‘rules’ applied as in 1970/1971 so the presence of gauges is not an automatic indication of the SS option; round gauge pods without gauges would indicate an SS but the round gauge pods with gauges only means gauges were ordered whether the SS option was ordered or not. The numbers and letters on the 1972 gauge option were white as they were in 1971. All models of Chevelles got the dash knobs (radio, lighter, and headlamp) with function symbols.
The cabin features front and rear bench seats trimmed in black vinyl with a matching dash, carpets, and door panels. Equipment includes a retro-style AM/FM radio, rear speaker, three-point seat belts, headrests, and a heater/defroster. The selling dealer notes that the headliner, carpets, visors, door handles, and window gaskets were replaced during the refurbishment.
Many classic barn or shed finds have an interesting backstory, and this 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle LS5 SS Convertible could be one of those vehicles. We don’t know why it was originally parked or why the seller recently revived it. Sometimes those stories can be as interesting as the cars themselves. We may never know the story here, but we know that someone may be days away from owning a solid and potent classic that will almost certainly appreciate. Would you like to be that person?
