Chevy's Monte Carlo has done it all, from the banks of Talladega to the show field. This nicely preserved 1972 Monte Carlo offers period-perfect good looks, a great-running big block, and an impressive documentation package that comes from just two owners. Nice, right? This very straight Monte Carlo looks downright perfect in code 63 Mohave Gold (yes, that's how Chevy spelled it) paint, which is both an ideal '70s color that fits the Monte's era, and a color that looks fairly in-style today. From almost any angle, it looks great and thanks to a recent repaint, it just glows in the sun. Panel alignment also suggests that this has always been an extremely clean car that needed no major surgery and original paint in the jambs proves that it has never been apart (it certainly feels tight). The first generation Monte Carlo was a huge hit, and the aggressive fender flares, tidy proportions, and what might be the longest hood ever put on a General Motors two-door still look fantastic today. The details like the raised fenders are still crisp, the chrome and trim is in good condition and all the original badges and markings have been retained. A brand new brown padded vinyl roof gives it a formal look, with no signs of damage or rust underneath. Although GM called the Monte Carlo a "personal" luxury car, there's plenty of room inside. The interior appears to be almost entirely original, and if that's the case, you have a good idea of how much someone cared for it. All the buttons on the tufted seats and door panels remain in place and the dash pad shows no cracking or UV damage. The gauge panel was similar to that found in a Chevelle (in fact, Monte Carlo dashes are often used to create fake SS Chevelles) and the gauges are in excellent condition with bright markings and needles. The burled walnut appliques are still crisp and clear and a tilt steering column makes it easy to get comfortable. It's not heavily optioned, but the important one, factory A/C, is a welcome addition. There's also a nicely appointed trunk with a full-sized spare that might just be original. Personal luxury also meant performance, with this Monte Carlo packing a 402 cubic inch V8 topped by a 4-barrel carb. Even though it was recently serviced and treated to all new seals, it's not hard to believe this is a clean, low-mileage car and they took that opportunity to really dress up the engine bay. Custom valve covers are the most notable addition, but under that factory air cleaner there's a K&N element as well as a fresh carburetor and aluminum intake manifold. The recent service work also includes new belts and hoses, making it ready to enjoy. It's a big block car, so the TH400 3-speed automatic transmission was the appropriate choice, and it spins a 12-bolt rear full of easy-cruising gears that give the big coupe great highway manners. Underneath it's very clean, with no frame damage and solid floors, as well as a dual exhaust system that sounds great without being intrusive. And there's simply no better rolling stock on one of these cars than a set of factory Rallys, with these wearing a newer set of fat blackwall radials. Documented with the original Protect-O-Plate, owner's manual, title and ownership documents (including the original cancelled check!), build sheet, and window sticker, there's a lot of history behind this car. People keep expecting these to skyrocket in value, so perhaps this is the one that will be the smart investment for the future. Call today!
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