How much did a 1972 Camaro cost in 1972?
In 1972, a new Chevrolet Camaro typically ranged from about $2,700 for the base model to roughly $4,000 for higher-performance or fully optioned versions, based on the official MSRP before tax and dealer markups.
The price you paid depended on engine choice, trim, and options. The following breakdown explains typical MSRP ranges for common configurations in 1972 and why prices varied across the lineup.
Pricing by configuration
MSRPs varied by engine and option package; the ranges below capture commonly ordered setups in 1972.
- Base Camaro with inline-6: approximately $2,700 to $2,900
- Camaro with a small-block V8: approximately $3,000 to $3,400
- Performance-oriented variants (RS/SS or similar high-performance packages): approximately $3,800 to $4,000+
Prices above reflect the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) and exclude destination charges, taxes, and dealer add-ons. Availability of specific packages could vary by body style and production date.
How packages and options influenced final prices
Chevrolet offered a range of appearance, handling, and interior options that could push the price above the base figures. Dealers could also add their own fees or upsell packages, and regional pricing variations could occur.
For precise figures for a specific 1972 Camaro, consulting original GM dealer catalogs or pricing guides from 1972 provides the most reliable source.
Factors shaping Camaro pricing in 1972
In addition to engine choice and options, several external factors affected prices in 1972:
- Rising fuel economy concerns and new emissions regulations that influenced engine availability and cost
- Competition within the pony-car segment from rivals such as the Ford Mustang and Plymouth Barracuda
- General inflation and material costs typical of the era
Overall, the price spectrum shows how buyers could opt for more power or more features, with price increasing accordingly.
Summary: The 1972 Camaro's new-car price spanned from roughly the mid-$2,000s for base models to around $4,000 for higher-end configurations, with exact totals driven by engine choice, option packages, and dealer pricing.
