What is the difference between a 71 and 72 Chevy truck?
The main difference between a 1971 and 1972 Chevy truck lies in their exterior design and some minor mechanical changes. While both models were part of Chevrolet's C/K series of pickup trucks, the 1972 model year brought about a more modern and streamlined look compared to its predecessor.
Exterior Design
The 1971 Chevy truck featured a more boxy and angular design, with a prominent grille and squared-off fenders. In contrast, the 1972 model had a more rounded and aerodynamic appearance, with a smoother front end and more integrated fenders. This design change was part of Chevrolet's effort to modernize the C/K series and make it more visually appealing to buyers.
Mechanical Changes
While the overall mechanical layout of the 1971 and 1972 Chevy trucks was similar, there were a few notable changes under the hood:
- The 1972 model year saw the introduction of a new engine option, the 350 cubic inch (5.7-liter) V8, which provided more power and efficiency compared to the previous engine options.
- Chevrolet also made some minor adjustments to the suspension and steering systems, improving the overall handling and ride quality of the 1972 truck.
- Additionally, the 1972 model year brought about some safety improvements, such as the addition of energy-absorbing bumpers and improved seatbelts.
These changes, while relatively minor, helped to keep the Chevy C/K series competitive in the rapidly evolving pickup truck market of the early 1970s.
Conclusion
In summary, the primary differences between the 1971 and 1972 Chevy trucks lie in their exterior design and a few mechanical updates. The 1972 model featured a more modern and streamlined look, as well as some engine and safety improvements, making it a slightly more advanced and appealing option for buyers at the time.
What was special about the 1972 C10?
For 1972, the interior underwent minor revisions, introducing molded-plastic door panels with integral armrests (requiring updated door handles and window cranks). In another change, a rear-view mirror glued to the windshield replaced the previous version, which was bolted to the headliner.
What is a 1972 Chevy truck worth today?
The value of a 1972 Chevy truck varies significantly, but in good condition with average specs, expect to pay around $22,388 for a C10. Prices can range from a low of about $5,500 for trucks needing extensive work to over $134,995 for exceptional examples. Key factors influencing price include condition, mileage, original parts, and desirable features like a CST trim package or a well-executed restoration.
Factors affecting value
- Condition: A truck in poor condition with rust or major mechanical issues will be worth much less than a well-maintained or restored one.
- Restorations: A frame-off restoration can significantly increase value, while modifications may not always be a positive unless they are high-quality or sought after (e.g., a modern engine swap).
- Originality: A truck that is all-original, including the engine and interior, is generally more valuable to collectors than one that has been heavily modified.
- Trim and options: Specific trim levels, such as the Cheyenne Super (CST) package, add features like bucket seats and a center console and can increase value. Other desirable options include a longhorn bed or factory air conditioning.
- Mileage and history: Lower mileage and a clean, documented history can command higher prices.
Examples of value variations
- Average condition: Approximately $22,388 for a 1972 Chevrolet C10 in good condition with average specs.
- Lower end: Around $4,950 was the lowest sale price at auction for a 1972 C10 in the last three years, likely for a project vehicle with issues.
- Higher end: A rare or exceptionally well-maintained example with desirable features sold for $253,000 at auction.
- Auction examples: A 1972 CST model with a big block engine sold for $88,000 at auction, more than double its #1-condition value of $39,900.
How to tell the difference between a 71 and a 72 Chevelle?
And we just bought a what is it 72 mhm. The only difference is these front headlights. Tell uh marker lights are hole on this one and they're split on the 71. Okay it's basically the same grill.
What does Chevy Z-71 mean?
Z71 in itself doesn't really mean anything. BUT, it's become shorthand for Chevy's offroad packages. So, if you see a z71 trim on any Chevy car, you're looking at an offroad package for it.
