Well, it’s brown but it’s 1973 too and both go hand in hand. But it’s also a second-gen (’73-’77) Chevrolet Monte Carlo and they don’t get a lot of coverage, at least not to the extent that the first-gen (’70-’72) do, so that makes this example worth a quick study. And only 27K original miles? OK, let’s see if that claim stacks up. This ’73 Monte Carlo is located in Poplar Bluff, Missouri and is available, here on craigslist for $12,000. Thanks to Rocco B. for this tip!
One of the first things that I noticed about this personal luxury coupe, as it was then defined, is the lack of a landau or vinyl roof covering. While not seemingly the norm, I prefer the look as it presents a cleaner style on a body that can be “fussy” at least compared to the gen-one version. The seller states, “OUTSIDE NOT PERFECT BUT LOOKS FANTASTIC OVERALL“. I’d say that’s so – in spite of being brown. The only thing that appears to be out of place is the missing chrome plastic molding that surrounds the opera windows. To add a bit of flair, the seller has added five-spoke black finished alloy wheels – it’s a good look.
Power is provided by an optional 175 net HP, 350 CI V8 engine married to a three-speed Turbo-Hydramatic automatic transmission. The seller adds, “STARTS RIGHT UP RIDES DRIVES LIKE NEW CAR“. Note the upside-down air cleaner lid, that’s an old trick that makes the engine sound like it has more grunt than it actually does. One thing is for certain, that small-block engine looks lost in that big engine compartment.
The “neutral” vinyl interior is a real standout – it’s a tough shade to keep looking clean. But not only is it bright, but it shows no sign of wear or age-related wear. It’s the entire presentation actually, the dash, instrument panel, door panels, and carpet – nothing is out of place or appears to need attention. There is a front seat center armrest with a storage compartment but it’s not original to this car. It’s nice to find a ’70s vintage speedometer that doesn’t top out at a measly 85 MPH.
While generally not a fan of these second-gen Monte Carlos, this is certainly a fine-looking example. There’s really nothing notable about it other than the optional 175 HP engine and the mileage claim. Speaking of which, what do you think about that mileage recording? The interior says yes, the engine compartment says no, the exterior says maybe, what says you?
For me, the missing opera window trim calls the low mileage into question. It’s not unusual for that trim to go missing, but not at 27K, and there are usually other visible signs of wear to accompany the missing trim. 127K? The interior is far too nice for that. 77K seems about right, courtesy of an altered odometer or a replacement instrument cluster.
Could be a true 27,000. A 49 year old car isn’t going to be perfect if this is a true unmolested survivor. IIRC speedometers were reduced to 100 mph in 1975 and 85 mph by 1977.
I had a 73 years ago, flipped air cleaner lid.
That molding, if I remember correctly, was plastic with a kinda chrome plating, and I’ve seen that trim to degrade when these were only 8-10 years. So, I don’t think it has anything to do with mileage, it was just a Very very cheaply made molding ! The brake pedal is the easiest to show wear, unless the owner changed the pad……
Hmm. Interior says 27K miles. Body shows no rust, amazing to me. Original spare. Original radio. Steering wheel rim looks good, no real wear. It’s base model all around, so will have the squidgy suspension. At 9K I’m a buyer. At 10K a maybe. $12K? Not for a base 350 2bbl. I’d love to “NASCAR” it. Had one years ago, and with the proper mods, these cars can handle very well. The Laguna S-3 bumper fits with a little work, really cleans up the front end. There was a company making ‘glas cowl hoods and bumpers for these.
It’s an optional 350 4Bbl.
JO
Nice lines on the 73 Monte. Round headlights 👍
I say a true 27,000. I think the first digit of the odometer kicks up slightly once it has rolled over once.
Looks like 27k to me. Opera window trim on these generally didn’t outlast the first set of tires. Owner must have liked JC Whitney because the dice door locks and portable center console are straight out of that catalog.
The 73 Montes came with Stainless Trim on Opera windows, 74 to 77 had plastic, I cannot tell from pictures if it’s a true 27k but it does look like a very low mileage classic, these models are actually more popular than the first generation because they are harder to find now than any other Monte Carlo! This was the best year of the Monte and was also Motor Trends Car of the Year in 1973!