The Chevrolet Monte Carlo burst on the scene in1970 as Chevy’s debonair entry in the burgeoning personal-luxury car category.As this article makes clear, the Monte Carlo eventually came to occupy a muchwider field.
Chevrolet Monte Carlo Image Gallery
The 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo was a debonair personal-luxury car.
See more pictures of Chevrolet Monte Carlo cars.
Discover how the Chevrolet Monte Carlo wentfrom the boulevard to the backstretch as it took its place among NASCAR’s winningest racecars ever. And learn how the Chevrolet Monte Carlosustained the tradition of the midsize American coupe into the 21st century.
The Chevrolet Monte Carlo debuted for 1970 ascompetition for the Ford Thunderbird. It maintained its two-door configurationthroughout a run that, with just one interruption, lasted until the end of the2007 model year.
Learn about a proud lineage that included theearly and rare Monte Carlo SS model with a 454-cubic-inch V-8, a timely downsizing for 1977, the revival of an SS model for 1983, and the last of the rear-drive models for 1989.
Again reflecting the tenor of its times, the 1995 Chevrolet Monte Carlo marked a transition from rear-wheel drive to front-wheel drive for Chevy's premier personal car. Itwas still a coupe, still had midsize dimensions, and still was a trueChevrolet.
The 1970 Monte Carlo came off a dedicated assembly line.
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
Advertisem*nt
Contents
- 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1971 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1973 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1974 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1975 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1976 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1978 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1979 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1980 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1981 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1982 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1983 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1984 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1985 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1986 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1987, 1988 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1995 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
The 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo was Chevy's first "personal-luxury" model.
The1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, an all-new "personal-luxury"coupe, was billed as "a fine carat a Chevrolet price." Stylish and luxurious, the Monte rode amodified 116-inch Chevelle sedan platform but showed little kinship withmid-size Chevrolets -- except at the front, which used two headlights insteadof the Chevelle's four -- and was intended as a rival to Ford's Thunderbird.
Long-hood/short-deck styling was sleek and well proportioneddespite the car's ample 205-inch length. Monte Carlo's near-classic profile wasenhanced by rear fender skirts, and its six-foot hood was the longest everinstalled on a Chevrolet.
Plush interiors held an instrument panel with roundgauges and simulated burled elm. Drivers faced more than 25 "skillfullygrouped" lights, switches, and buttons.
Monte Carlos were offered only with V-8 power: a 250-horsepower350-cubic-inch engine was standard, with the option of a 300-horsepower 350, a265-horsepower Turbo-Fire 400 or, for just $111, a 330-horsepower 400.
Every 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo had power front disc brakes, concealed wipers, low-profile 15-inchtires, full wheel covers, Astro Ventilation, and an electric clock. Like mostChevrolets, they could be impressively personalized by scrutinizing the optionslist, perhaps starting with a vinyl top in five available colors.
Performance buffs weren't forgotten in the rush toward luxury.The Monte Carlo SS came with a load of tempting gear, including a new, rather aggressive 360-horsepower 454-cubic-inch V-8 with dualexhaust system, automatic level control, G70 wide-oval tires on 15x7 wheels,and discreet identification.
Furthermore, the potent 450-horsepower LS-6version of the 454 was optional, making an SS -- as the brochure stated -- "avery deceptive car."
"Solid gentlemanly comfort without bombast," one adpromised Monte Carlo buyers. The sales brochure called it "a car withoutpretense" that "pampers you without overdoing it."
Starting at$3,123, it was quite a handsome and tempting machine. In its opening season,Monte Carlos outsold Thunderbirds by a mile. Of 130,657 Montes built, 3823 hadthe SS 454 package.
The 1970 Monte Carlo was a combination of luxury and performance.
1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight (lbs.) | Price (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,460 | $3,123 | 130,657 |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
Advertisem*nt
1971 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
The 1971 Monte Carlo kept the smart, clean lines of the 1970 model.
The 1971 Chevrolet Monte Carlo was not much different from the 1970 Monte Carlo, as expected of an all-new model in its second season: a new grille with a finer mesh pattern, a stand-up hood ornament, and square parking lights to replace the original round units.
Critics often ridiculed the Monte Carlo's instrument panel with its simulated Carpathian burled elm trim, but the interior satisfied many an owner. As the sales brochure noted, "only termites will know the difference." Essentially, though, gauges were Chevelle-based.
Chevrolet insisted that a Monte was "still the only car of its kind made in the U.S.A.," promising solid value, luxury, style, dependability, resale value -- and craftsmanship. In addition to luxury goodies, the options list contained several performance items.
Like other GM models, Monte Carlo suffered in production as a result of a lengthy strike early in the model year. Output dropped just slightly, to 128,600 cars from the prior year's 130,657.
Only 1919 customers elected the SS 454 option, with a 365- or 425-horsepower 454-cubic-inch V-8 engine, heavy-duty springs, automatic level control, G70x15 tires on rally wheels, and black rear trim panel.
Base Monte Carlo engine was the 245-horsepower 350, with a 270-horsepower version and a 300-horse "396" (actually 402-cubic-inch) also available.
The 1971 Monte Carlo carried SS badging on the black rear trim panel.
1971 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight (lbs.) | Price (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,488 | $3416 | 128,600 |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars: Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in these captivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive: Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safety information on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search: In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-owned vehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls and trouble spots.
- All Chevrolet Monte Carlos: The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year. Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
Advertisem*nt
1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
Refinement continued to characterize the Monte Carlo for 1972.
The 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo was billed as "America's most attainable luxury car." Thepersonal-luxury Monte Carlo flaunted a cleaner front-end appearance withparking lights flanking a fresh wide-mesh grille. Rear ends stuck with tallvertical taillights but added a horizontal bright trim strip above the bumper.
Top engine was the 270-horsepower (net) 454-cubic-inch V-8,followed by a 240-horsepower 402-cubic-inch V-8 -- still called a"396." The 454 V-8 cost an extra $261, while the 402 added $142 to aMonte's sticker.
Californians had to be content with a 165- or 175-horsepower350-cubic-inch V-8 because the larger engines failed to meet that state'semissions standards.
"Owning a Monte Carlo is kind of like having your cake anddriving it too," Chevrolet insisted, blending the best virtues of theluxury car and the sporty car. Base-priced at $3,362, the Monte Carlo could befitted with a long list of luxury conveniences to suit its owner.
No more Super Sport options were available as marketers did notwant to dilute the Monte Carlo's luxury image. Lack of such fittings as a floorshift or hood scoops was seen as a bonus, rather than a detriment, for this"beautifully quiet, quietly beautiful" coupe.
Only modest changes were made to the 1972 Monte Carlo.
1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight (lbs.) | Price (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,506 | $3,362 | 180,819 |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
Advertisem*nt
1973 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
Monte Carlo styling followed a curvier muse for 1973.
The 1973 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, fully redesigned inside and out, was promotedas a personal luxury car at a Chevrolet price. Even so, sport options couldtransform the coupe into a respectable performer.
A tachometer and extra gaugescould be installed, and engine selections still included the big-block 454-cubic-inchV-8. Before departing to form his own company in 1972, general manager John Z.DeLorean had ordered that Monte Carlo suspensions be sport-tuned, to becomebetter rivals to the top imported sedans.
Sporting swoopy, deeply sculpted bodysides, these Monte Carlos adoptedopera windows in their rear roof quarters. A new wraparound front bumpercrossed the fine-mesh grille. Headlights stood inboard of the fenders,alongside the grille, with parking lights mounted at the fender tips.
Overalllength grew by four inches, width by two. Styling may have changeddramatically, but the car's basic long-hood/short-deck theme remained evident.
Owners gave high marks to the new Monte Carlo's quiet luxury,fine performance, and excellent handling characteristics. The redesigned suspensionalso gained the approval of road-testers at the car-buff magazines.
Improvedride/handling came as a result of the car's full-coil suspension, radial-plytires, and "wide-stance" chassis with front and rear stabilizer bars.
Engine choices began with a 307-cubic-inch V-8 and included apair of 350-cubic-inch V-8s as well as the big 454 (now rated at 245horsepower). No more 402-cubic-inch engines were available.
Production totaled an impressive 290,693 Monte Carlos in threetrim levels: seldom-seen sport coupe, best-selling "S" coupe, and aLandau sport coupe that ranked in the middle of the sales picture. Motor Trendvoted the Monte Carlo Landau its Car of the Year.
Monte Carlo options includeda vinyl top at $123 and an open-it-up Sky Roof for $325. Landau editions hadspecial sail-panel emblems, fender striping, custom wheels, and a rearstabilizer bar.
The 1973 Monte Carlo retained its familiar
long hood/short deck proportions.
1973 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight range (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,713-3,722 | $3,415-$3,806 | 290,693 |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
Advertisem*nt
1974 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
The ritziest 1974 Chevrolet Monte Carlo was this Landau model.
The 1974 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Chevrolet's hot-selling personal-luxury coupe,gained a new eggcrate-patterned grille and bigger parking lights as part ofrefined front and rear styling.
Overall length grew by three inches. Most popularMonte of the year was the "S," which now served as the base model.The posh, vinyl-topped Landau also remained on the market, but those were theonly two choices.
The Monte Carlo's base engine again developed 145 horsepower,while the top 454-cubic-inch V-8 stuck with 245 horses. A 180-horsepowerrendition of Chevrolet's 400-cubic-inch V-8 also was available.
Manuallyoperated swing-out Strato-bucket seats might be installed, as could a newpower-operated sliding steel Skyroof, which cost $325. The radial-tunedsuspension system earned some refinements.
"Its elegance is basic," the sales brochure explained."From the ground up," Monte Carlo was "a car you can be proudof." A new bright-framed, color-keyed instrument cluster was installed.The Landau coupe added a vinyl half-roof along with body accent striping, sportmirrors, Turbine II wheels, and "discriminating" crests.
Optionsincluded electric door locks, power trunk opener, power windows, console,Comfortilt steering wheel -- and a child safety seat named the "LoveSeat."
The 1974 Monte Carlo Landau was
instantly recognizable by its vinyl roof.
1974 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight range (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,926-3,928 | $3,885-$4,129 | 312,217 |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
Advertisem*nt
1975 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
Monte Carlo grilles and taillights were restyled for 1975.
The 1975 Chevrolet Monte Carlo coupe, with its vinyl half-roof and narrow rear quarter windows, continued to attract a respectable number ofbuyers. A total of 110,380 Landaus were produced versus 148,529 basic"S" Monte Carlos, which cost $270 less. Total Monte output dropped by17 percent from the 1974 figure.
Grilles earned a restyling this season. A new wraparoundtaillight design brought up the rear. For the last time, Montes could have thebig-block 454-cubic-inch V-8, now rated at 215 horsepower. Base engine was a145-horsepower 350-cubic-inch V-8 with two-barrel carburetor. For a little moreoomph, two other options could be checked off: a four-barrel, 155-horsepowerrendition of the 350 or a 400-cubic-inch V-8 that eked out 175 horsepower. Thisyear's Monte Carlos were shod with broader, GR70x15 radial tires.
"When it makes you feel good about yourself," thesales brochure insisted of the Monte Carlo, "that's character." Thepopular coupe was described as "honest, tasteful, with classic design andelegance." A newly available Custom interior included a choice of a 50/50reclining passenger seat or swivel bucket seats. Standard interiors had a benchseat, and the driver faced a color-keyed instrument panel, steering wheel, andsteering column.
The 1975 Monte Carlo Landau could be fitted with an optional Sky-roof.
1975 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight range (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,927-3,930 | $4,249-$4,519 | 258,909 |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
Advertisem*nt
1976 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
The Monte Carlo's handsomely sculpted
bodysides were unchanged for 1976.
The 1976 Chevrolet Monte Carlo's production set a record, with astunning 353,272 coupes rolling off the assembly line. While many carsstruggled for sales in the mid-Seventies, Chevrolet's personal-luxury coupescontinued to move easily off the showroom floors.
Without question, Montes weredominating their mid-size market segment. A total of 191,370 "S"coupes were built, against 161,902 Landau coupes, which cost $293 more.
Revised styling was led by stacked quad headlights and anelegant new horizontal-slot grille. Cleanly restyled taillights were flatterand actually plainer in appearance. Top Monte Carlo engine was the175-horsepower 400-cubic-inch V-8, followed by a pair of 350-cubic-inchpowerplants that whipped up 145 or 165 horses.
A thriftier 140-horsepower 305-cubic-inchV-8 became the standard engine, but the big-block 454 was gone. Three-speedTurbo Hydra-Matic was now the standard Monte transmission.
A "Fashion Tone" paint scheme joined the options list,with contrasting colors on portions of the front fenders, doors, and quarterpanels -- an attempt at a pseudo-classic look. Landau coupes had standardTurbine II wheel covers, along with a vinyl half-roof and dual sport mirrors.
The 1976 Monte Carlo topped 1975 sales by more than 90,000 units.
1976 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,907 | $4,673-$4,699 | 353,272 |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
Advertisem*nt
1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
The 1977 Monte Carlo's front end had
become unappealingly overstyled.
The 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo's sales continued to behearty -- stronger than in 1976, in fact. More "personal-size luxury"competitors had been scrambling for customers since the Monte Carlo wasintroduced in 1970, but Chevrolet's example of the concept remained a stalwartcontender. Shoppers snapped up 224,327 copies of the "S" sport coupe,along with 186,711 Landau coupes. Prices now started at $4,968, or $5,298 forthe Landau. Only the Oldsmobile Cutlass beat the Monte Carlo in the mid-sizecoupe sales race.
Now that full-size Chevrolets had been downsized, they rode thesame 116-inch wheelbase as Monte Carlos. Strangely enough, the Montes weighedmore than the "big" coupes and sedans.
The list of available engines had slimmed down considerably. Thisyear's Monte Carlo had only two choices: the standard 305-cubic-inch V-8 with a145-horsepower rating, or an optional 350-cubic-inch V-8 that put out 170horsepower. All Monte Carlos had Turbo Hydra-Matic.
Grilles now were divided into small segments, and a new hoodornament carried the Monte Carlo crest. Widened taillights sat lower on therear panel and were horizontally segmented. Options included a padded vinylroof, sport mirrors, Turbine II wheels, and Rally wheels. Landau coupes hadpinstriping and a vinyl half-roof.
For the 1977 Monte Carlo, taillights were now horizontally segmented.
1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,852 | $4,968-$5,298 | 411,038 |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
Advertisem*nt
1978 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
The 1978 Chevrolet Monte Carlo was
downsized in the name of fuel economy.
The 1978 Chevrolet Monte Carlo coupe's downsizing blended with radicalrestyling to create a different breed, now aimed at fuel economy. Thisthird-generation model was a foot shorter and 800 pounds lighter than the 1977.Less overhang and a tighter turning circle made this Monte easier to manage andpark.
A 231-cubic-inch 105-horsepower V-6 engine was standard -- the first timesix-cylinder power was offered in a Monte Carlo. For a little extra vitality, a305-cubic-inch V-8 could be installed rated at 145 horsepower, but that was thelimit. The engine upgrade cost just $150 extra. A three-speed manual gearshiftwas standard, but California Monte Carlos came only with automatic.
This "trim and timely new edition" with "statelystance and sculptured sides," the sales brochure insisted, "retainsthe unique personality of Monte Carlos past." It was "beautifully intune with the times, yet emphatically apart from the crowd." The new frontend held a grid-patterned grille flanked by single rectangular headlights.
Chevrolet pushed the interior as a personal "driver'ssuite," in a car that "demands to be driven." Fresh stylingincluded a delta-spoked soft-vinyl steering wheel and a padded dashboard.
Options included power locks, Rally wheels (for the sport coupe only),Strato-bucket seats, a Power Skyroof, power windows, and a power trunk opener.The Monte Carlo's road-tuned suspension included front and rear stabilizerbars.
Of the 358,191 Monte Carlos produced in the 1978 model year,less than 40 percent were Landau coupes rather than basic sport coupes. TheMonte Carlo Landau came with an automatic transmission, deluxe wheel covers,sport mirrors, pinstriping, elk-grain vinyl rear roof cover, and wide sillmoldings.
Monte Carlos shared their platform, on a 108-inch wheelbase,with the "new-size" Malibus -- which were a foot shorter and as muchas half a ton lighter than equivalent 1977 Chevelles.
The 1978 Monte Carlo retained the general lines of earlier models.
1978 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight range (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,040-3,175 | $4,785-$5,828 | 358,191 (approx.) |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
Advertisem*nt
1979 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
The 1979 Monte Carlo sported a
cleaned-up grille and wraparound taillights.
The 1979 Chevrolet Monte Carlo coupe was nearly unchanged after a dramaticredesign for 1978.
The few changes to the 1979 Chevrolet Monte Carlo included a fine-patterned crosshatchgrille, segmented parking lights, and wraparound taillights. As usual, colorand trim selections were also different.
Landau versions of the 1979 Chevrolet Monte Carlo displayed a newcanopy-style vinyl roof treatment, described as "an aristocratic arch oftextured padded vinyl." Landaus had pinstriping and black rocker panels,as well as deluxe wheel covers and sport mirrors.
Performance might have been meager compared to certain Montes ofthe past, but shoppers had four engines to choose from: a 94-horsepower 200-cubic-inchV-6, 115-horsepower 231-cubic-inch V-6, 125-horsepower 267-cubic-inch V-8, andthe strongman of the quartet -- a 160-horsepower 305-cubic-inch V-8.
The 1979 Chevrolet Monte Carlos sold in California made do with two engine choices: a 231-cubic-inch (3.8-liter) V-6 or the305 V-8. A floor-shifted three-speed was the standard transmission, butCalifornia-bound Montes came only with automatic.
Chevrolet promoted the 1979 as "a car that standsapart," offering "a look, a feel, a personality all its own." Evenmore tempting was an interior that "massages your spirit with easefulluxury."
Who could resist such an invitation? Monte Carlo coupes could beordered with removable tinted-glass roof panels that fit into the trunk.
The 1979 Monte Carlo Landau Sport Coupe
gained a new vinyl-roof treatment.
1979 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight range (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,039-3,169 | $5,333-$6,448 | 316,923 |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
1980 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
A subtle facelift freshened up the
1980 Chevrolet Monte Carlo's front end.
The 1980 Chevrolet Monte Carlo received its first facelift since being"downsized" for 1977. The car got a new "eggcrate" grillebetween rectangular side-by-side headlights, but was little changed otherwise,at least on the outside.
Under the hood, it was a different story. Compared to 1979,there was a slight shuffling of engine displacements and horsepower ratings,with V-6s of 229 or 231 cubic inches, and V-8s of 267 or 305 cubic inches.Horsepower ranged from 110 to 155. But added for 1980 was a turbochargedversion of Buick's 231-cubic-inch V-6 rated at 170 horsepower.
Unfortunately for performance buffs, the four-speed manualtransmission offered (but rarely ordered) for 1979 was dropped, making athree-speed automatic the standard -- and only -- transmission.
Turbochargedengines typically don't make much power at low speeds, so the automatic transmissioncoupled with a tall 2.29:1 rear axle ratio meant that off-the-line punch wasn'ta Turbo Monte's strong suit. Indeed, its 13.0-second 0-60 time was little ifany better than with the 5.0-liter V-8 -- which cost $200 less.
Like any good personal-luxury coupe, the Monte Carlo offered ahost of "personalizing" options: Custom Cloth or Vinyl upholstery, abevy of sound systems (some with built-in CB radios), powerwindows/locks/seats, power trunk opener, power sunroof, and "RemovableGlass Roof Panels," more commonly known as T-tops.
Along with most other Chevys, Monte Carlo prices were upsharply. In 1979, a base V-6 coupe retailed for $5,333; for 1980, it was up to$6,524. A Landau edition was also offered, which added a vinyl top, pinstriping, deluxe wheel covers, and visor vanity mirrors. At $250 more than abase Monte, the Landau didn't sell as well.
But then Monte Carlos as a whole didn't sell very well. From282,000 in 1979, sales dropped to only 126,000 for 1980. Increased prices werepartly to blame, but so was the gas crisis that labeled most traditional largeAmerican cars as "guzzlers."
The 1980 Monte Carlo Sport Coupe
came standard with a 3.8-liter V-6.
1980 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight range (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,104-3,219 | $6,524-$6,852 | 148,842 |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
1981 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
The Monte Carlo was the only 1981 Chevy to enjoy a sales increase.
The 1981 Chevrolet MonteCarlo received a mild -- but much needed -- reskinning. The nose looked similarto the 1980 edition but was lower, more squared off, and wore body-coloredbumpers.
In back, the 1981 Chevrolet MonteCarlo replaced vertical taillights with horizontal lenses in a highertail that was likewise boxier and adorned with body-colored bumpers. Thesweeping fender creases that had long been a Monte Carlo trademark were stillin evidence but toned down in a more slab-sided profile.
Engine choiceswere the same as before, though all were fitted with GM's new Computer CommandControl (CCC) emission system.
The base 229-cubic-inch V-6 dropped from 115horsepower to 110, matching the 231-cubic-inch Buick V-6 substituted inCalifornia. V-8s of 267- and 305-cubic-inch returned, with 115 and 150horsepower, respectively, while the top power option was again the170-horsepower turbocharged 3.8-liter V-6. Meanwhile, a lock-up torqueconverter was added to the standard three-speed automatic transmission.
Like other GMcars, Monte Carlo prices rose dramatically for 1981, the base model being up by$775 to $7,299, the top-line Landau V-8 increasing by over $1,200 to $8,056.Yet with the help of new styling, sales went up by over 25 percent to 187,850,making Monte Carlo the only Chevrolet to boast higher volume for 1981.
The 1981 Monte Carlo was a handsome, if formal, coupe.
1981 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight range (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,102-3,228 | $7,299-$8,056 | 187,850 |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
1982 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
The 1982 Monte Carlo base model remained smart and handsome.
The 1982 Chevrolet Monte Carlo returned with only detail changes outside,though there was some shuffling going on under the hood.
Moreover, with that year's discontinuation of the coupe version of the Chevrolet Malibu, Chevy began considering the Monte Carlo as much atwo-door variant of the Malibu as a model in its own right. Even theMalibu's facelift that year echoed Monte Carlo styling themes.
Finally, 1982 Chevrolet Monte Carloprices now fell within the Malibu's range. Montes were previously somewhat moreexpensive.
The 1982 Chevrolet Monte Carlo received a finer-mesh grille, anddropping the bucket seat option made them all six-passenger automobiles.
Powertrain availability was identical to Malibu's, so Chevy's 3.8-liter 229-cubic-inch110-horsepower V-6 returned as standard, with 4.4-liter (267-cubic-inch, 115horsepower) and 5.0-liter (305-cubic-inch, 150 horsepower) V-8s optional.
Notable by its absence was the 3.8-liter turbocharged V-6 that had beenintroduced in 1980. But replacing the turbo were a pair of diesels, a105-horsepower 5.7-liter V-8 and an 83-horsepower 262-cubic-inch 4.3-liter V-6.
Even without competition from the extinct Malibu coupe, MonteCarlo sales plummeted, from nearly 188,000 in 1981 to less than 93,000 for 1982-- better than a 50-percent drop. But Chevy had some tricks up its sleeve forthe 1983 model year.
1982 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,190 | $8,177-$8,247 | 92,392 |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
1983 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
The 1983 Chevrolet Monte Carlo was little changed
from 1982. Pictured is the base model, which was
available with gas and diesel V-6 and V-8 engines.
The 1983 Chevrolet MonteCarlo, like the mechanically similar Malibu, got only a slightlyrevised grille to mark this version as an 1983 model. But midyear wouldbring a whole new breed of Monte. As with Malibu, the small 4.4-literV-8 engine option was deleted.
Onceagain, Chevy's 3.8-liter V-6 with 110 horsepower was standard in49-state cars, while a similar Buick-built engine was used inCalifornia. Optional were a 150-horsepower 5.0-liter V-8 and a pair ofdiesels: a 4.3-liter V-6 with 85 horsepower and a 5.7-liter V-8 with105 horsepower. Neither diesel proved very popular.
Inthe spring of 1983, Chevy released the 1983 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS.This was an effort to rekindle the midsize Chevy muscle car, and it dida credible job of it, given the performance parameters of the early1980s.
The 1983 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SSpacked a high-performance 180-horsepower 5.0-liter V-8 fitted withhigh-lift cam and low-restriction dual exhaust. It boasted a smootherfront fascia than other 1983 Chevrolet Monte Carlos, with integrated bumper and lower lip spoiler.
SS badging, a small rear spoiler, and stiffer suspension also were included in the 1983 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS.Available only in white or dark metallic blue, it was a real "blastfrom the past," with spirited acceleration the likes of which had notbeen seen in a midsize Chevy for a very long time.
1983 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight range (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,220-3,328 | $8,552-$10,474 | 96,319 |
The 1983 Monte Carlo SS Sport Coupe had impressive performance
courtesy of a 180-horsepower 5.0-liter V-8 and sport suspension.
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars: Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in these captivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive: Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safety information on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search: In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-owned vehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls and trouble spots.
- All Chevrolet Monte Carlos: The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year. Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
1984 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
With its 5.0-liter V-8 and macho styling cues, the 1984
Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS helped give the
entire Monte Carlo lineup a sporty image.
The 1984 Chevrolet MonteCarlo took over as Chevy's sole midsize rear-wheel-drive car because the Chevrolet Malibu had been scratched from Chevy's lineup.
Changes to the 1984 Chevrolet MonteCarlo were few,encompassing mostly powertrain shuffling, though front bucket seatswith a required center console were added as an option.
Enginechoices remained the same as before, except that the 4.3-liter V-6diesel was dropped due to lack of interest. The 105-horsepower 5.7-liter V-8 dieselwas still available, though not in California, where it couldn't passthat state's emissions standards. The base 49-state engine was Chevy's110-horsepower 3.8-liter V-6; California cars got a similarBuick-built V-6.
A150-horsepower 5.0-liter V-8 was optional on base versions of the 1984 Chevrolet MonteCarlo. The Chevrolet MonteCarlo SSreturned with its 180-horsepower 5.0-liter. All engines camestandard with a three-speed automatic transmission. A four-speedautomatic was optional on all but California's Buick V-6.
It's doubtful those disappointed in the demise of the Malibu, which was offered as a sedan or wagon, would now gravitate to a two-door MonteCarlo. So something else must have prompted the 1984 Chevrolet MonteCarlo's 40-percentboost in popularity.
A good part of that "something else" wasperformance, indicating that quick, good-looking coupes could still attract buyers.
1984 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight range (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,165-3,434 | $8,936-$10,700 | 136,780 |
The 1984 Monte Carlo SS helped fuel a
dramatic rise in Monte Carlo sales.
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- All Chevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007model year. Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe
1985 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
The 1985 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS was the only Monte Carlo model
that didn't get more horsepower for 1985.
The 1985 Chevrolet MonteCarlo, Chevy's rear-wheel-drive personal-luxury car, got more power, but for the first time since 1981, no diesel engine was offered inthe Monte Carlo..
Inthe 1985 Chevrolet MonteCarlo base model, the previously standard 3.8-liter Chevy V-6 gave way to alarger 4.3-liter V-6 with throttle-body fuel injection. That brought along 20extra horsepower, for a new total of 130.
The optional 5.0-liter V-8 likewise gained someponies, via a jump in compression ratio. It jumped from 150horsepower to 165. The High Output 5.0-liter V-8 in the 1985 Chevrolet MonteCarlo SS remained at 180horsepower.
The V-6 and base V-8 could be backed by either a three- orfour-speed automatic transmission, but the H.O. V-8 in the SS came only withthe four-speed this year.
Though the basecoupe carried on visually unchanged, the SS was a different story. Previouslyoffered only in white or dark blue metallic, color choices were expanded toinclude silver, maroon, and black. "Removable glass roof panels"(T-tops) came on board as a midyear option.
Despite its agingdesign, nearly 120,000 Monte Carlos found eager buyers in 1985. Though thetotal was down somewhat from 1984, the SS model saw sales climb from 24,050 to35,484, a sure sign that performance was making a comeback.
Color choices for the 1985 Chevy Monte Carlo SS expanded
from two to five, including this maroon hue.
1985 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight range (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,139-3,385 | $9,540-$11,380 | 119,057 |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
1986 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
The hot 1986 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS shows off the
wheel design that was new that year.
The 1986 Chevrolet Monte Carlo line was joined by a luxurious new LS modelwith a distinctive aerodynamic nose, flush-mounted composite headlights, andwraparound taillights.
Every 1986 Chevrolet Monte Carlo got a new instrument panel redesigned toaccept Delco electronic radios, and gauge graphics were revised. Retunedsuspensions with stiffer shocks were found throughout the line, while the SSgot new aluminum wheels.
Though engine choices were the same as before, power ratingswere revised somewhat. The standard 4.3-liter V-6 gained 10 horsepower to 140. The base 5.0-liter V-8 lost 15, dropping to 150. The H.O. 5.0 V-8 in theMonte Carlo SS was unchanged at 180.
The V-6 came standard with a three-speedautomatic transmission, with a four-speed automatic optional; the V-8s cameonly with the latter.
A special Monte Carlo SS model arrived at midyear in verylimited numbers. Called Aerocoupe, it featured a sloped rear window that madethe body more aerodynamic for use in NASCAR (National Association for Stock CarAuto Racing) competition.
In order to make any such modification legal fortrack use, NASCAR rules stated that the manufacturer had to build 200 copiesfor sale to the general public -- and that's just what Chevrolet did. Those 200have since become coveted collectors' items.
The 1986 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS Aerocoupe was
a limited-edition fastback-glass coupe produced to
qualify the shape for NASCAR competition.
1986 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight range (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,138-3,440 | $10,241-$14,191 | 119,210 |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
1987, 1988 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
The 1987 and 1988 Chevrolet Monte Carlo closed a
chapter in Monte Carlo history. Shown here are
the 1987 Monte Carlo SS and LS models.
The 1987 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Chevy's rear-drive personal-luxury car, droppedits base model and got slightly revised taillights.
The 1987 Chevrolet Monte Carlo was offered in LS and SSmodels. The 1987 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS came in notchback coupe and fastback Aerocoupeversions.
The Aerocoupe was a limited-production special first seen for 1986. Only 200were built to qualify the design for use in stock car racing. For 1987,production was somewhat less limited: a total of 6052.
Standard engine in the 1987 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS was the throttle-body-injected4.3-liter V-6, now making five more horsepower for a total of 145. It was backed by athree-speed automatic transmission.
Optional for the LS was the base 5.0-litercarbureted V-8 making 150 horsepower. It was tied to a four-speed automatic; this transmission was optional on the V-6. The 1987 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS models again got the H.O. carbureted 5.0-literV-8 with 180 horsepower.
The 1988 Chevrolet Monte Carlo became Chevy's sole remaining rear-drive six-passenger coupe. This was the result of Chevrolet discontinuing its full-size Caprice two-door body style after 1987.
The 1988 Chevrolet Monte Carlo changes included the addition of a four-speedautomatic as standard. And the fastback Aerocoupe version of the The Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS washistory. Just over 30,000 Montes were built in this swan-song season, more thanhalf being the SS version.
After a run of some 19 years, the Monte Carlo nameplate wasretired -- or should we say, granted a leave of absence. Go to the following pages to see how the name would beresurrected in the 1990s to grace a rather different sort of personal-luxurycar.
The 1987 andd 1988 Monte Carlos were the last of the rear-wheel-drive
Monte Carlos. This is 1987 Monte Carlo SS.
1987 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight range (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,283-3,526 | $11,306-$14,838 | 79,045 |
1988 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight range (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,212-3,267 | $12,330-$14,320 | 30,174 |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
1995 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
The 1995 Monte Carlo was the two-door
version of the new Lumina sedan.
The 1995 Chevrolet MonteCarlo revived a name last used in 1988. The new 1995 Monte Carlo was aimed at an audience similar to the one that had been attracted to the personal-coupe rear-drive Montes.
The 1995 Chevrolet MonteCarlo, however, took a somewhat different engineering approach.
The 1995 Chevrolet MonteCarlo was based on the samefront-wheel-drive platform as the four-door Chevy Lumina sedan. The two shared powertrains and had much the sameinterior design.
As a coupe, however, the Monte Carl had a different roofline, and it's front and rear fascias were unique. Dual air bags were standard, as wereanti-lock brakes. Inside, the Monte sported a fake wood-grain stripe that ranacross the dash and into the doors, a "luxury" trim item left off themore mainstream Lumina.
LS and Z34versions of the 1995 Chevrolet MonteCarlo were offered, The LS was equipped like the LuminaLS sedan with a bench front seat affording six-passenger capacity. The LS used Chevy's 3.1-literV-6, which had gained 20 horsepower over the year before and was now rated at 160.
The Z34 was the sporting entry, with standard front bucket seats and console, stiffersuspension, 16-inch alloy wheels, body-colored grille surround (versus chromeon the LS), and additional amenities. It used Chevy's 3.4-liter Twin Dual Cam V-6 ratedat 210 horsepower, up 10 from 1994.
Standardequipment on every 1995 Chevrolet MonteCarlo included a four-speed automatic transmission, air conditioning, powerwindows and locks, split-folding rear seat, Pass-key anti-theft system, and atachometer.
Like the Lumina,the 1995 Monte Carlo faced some tough competition. Among domestic manufacturers, Ford'srear-wheel-drive Thunderbird was perhaps the Monte's closest rival, and itscored points with its available V-8 engine.
Chrysler joined the fray with anew front-wheel-drive Sebring sport coupe that was smaller and less powerfulthan the Monte Carlo, but was years ahead in styling and offered surprisinginterior room. And then there was the overseas competition, notably the coupeversions of the popular Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
A dressed-up Monte Carlo paced the inaugural
Brickyard 500 stock car race.
1995 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight range (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,306-3,436 | $16,770-$18,970 | NA |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
The 1996 Monte Carlo was essentially
unchanged in its second model year.
The 1996 Chevrolet MonteCarlo personal luxury coupe, like its Chevy Lumina sedan counterpart, had few changesbut a handful of new options for its second year on the market.
LS and Z34versions of the 1996 Chevrolet MonteCarlo were again offered. Both came with dual air bags and anti-lockbrakes, though Z34s now boasted four-wheel discs.
Each model had its ownengine: The LS came with a 160-horsepower 3.1-liter V-6. The Z34 waspowered by a 3.4-liter Twin Dual Cam V-6 with 215 horsepower, five more than in1995.
Both engines came with new five-year/100,000-mile coolant and100,000-mile platinum-tipped spark plugs to extend service intervals.Meanwhile, the standard four-speed automatic transmission got Dexron III fluidthat never needed replacement under normal driving conditions.
Newly standard on1996 Chevrolet MonteCarlo LS models were power mirrors. New options included a leather-wrappedsteering wheel with radio controls (standard on Z34), dual-zone temperaturecontrols, cargo-area convenience net (standard on Z34), and leather interiorwith bucket seats. A power sunroof was scheduled for midyear introduction.
MonteCarlo-bodied racers continued their winning ways on the stock-car tracks,taking numerous events including the Daytona 500. Though the racing machinesshared little in common with their showroom brethren, the victories cast a halonot only over the Monte Carlo, but over Chevrolet as well.
The Monte Carlo would continue for another decade as a front-drive two-door, making the 1997-2007 Monte Carlos fitting heirs to Chevy's personal-coupe legacy.
The Monte Carlo Z34 came standard with a
3.4-liter Twin Dual Cam V-6.
1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts
| Model | Weight range (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Monte Carlo | 3,306-3,436 | $17,255-$19,455 | 80,717 |
For more picture-packed articles about Chevys and other great cars, see:
- Classic Cars: Learn about more than 400 of the world's finest classic and collectible automobiles.
- Muscle Cars: Look back at tire-smoking Chevys and scores of other machines from the golden age of American high performance.
- Sports Cars:Discover the pleasure of sports motoring at its purest in thesecaptivating articles on the best sports cars from around the world.
- Consumer Guide Automotive:Here's your source for news, reviews, prices, fuel-economy and safetyinformation on today's cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickups.
- Consumer Guide Used Car Search:In the market for a used Chevy or virtually any other pre-ownedvehicle? Check out these reports, which include safety recalls andtrouble spots.
- AllChevrolet Monte Carlos:The Chevrolet Monte Carlo continued in production through the 2007 model year.Learn about the modern history of this stylish Chevy coupe.
