350 Equipped: 1986 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS

There were clear signs during the second half of the 1980s that the automotive industry was emerging from the dark days of The Malaise Era. Manufacturers were beginning to extract power improvements from their engines following ongoing development and the adoption of electronic technology. However, the progress wasn’t fast enough for some enthusiasts who took matters into their own hands. Such is the case with this 1986 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS. The freshly rebuilt 350ci V8 hiding under its hood should provide the level of performance befitting the badge. As a dry-climate classic, it could be ideal for someone seeking a project candidate needing little beyond a cosmetic refresh.

Classics from a dry climate will always draw attention because that minimizes the chances that potential buyers will find themselves the new owner of a rust bucket. Therefore, the fact that this Monte Carlo has spent its life in Nevada is good news. The exterior appears rust-free, while the underside shots reveal no evidence of penetrating rust or other problems. However, such an existence often results in penalties in other areas, and this SS is no exception. The seller claims that its Silver paint is original, with no history of repairs or restoration. It has developed the fading and patchiness that is often a hallmark of this shade as it ages, meaning the winning bidder will probably perform a cosmetic refresh. That process would be straightforward, as the panels are free from significant dings or dents. They aren’t perfect, but I see no imperfections that would justify steel replacement. The glass is in good order, and a bit of elbow grease should make a noticeable difference to the original alloy wheels.

Monte Carlo buyers in 1986 had a broad range of engine choices, although SS buyers received a single mechanical configuration. The engine bay housed a 305ci “HO” V8, while a four-speed automatic transmission and power-assisted steering and brakes were standard fare. The “HO” offered a significant improvement over the standard 305, with buyers receiving 180hp and 225 ft/lbs of torque, versus 150hp and 240 ft/lbs. The difference made itself known when the subject turned to acceleration because while a standard Monte Carlo took 17.7 seconds to cover the ¼-mile, the SS slashed that figure to 16.3 seconds. Of course, those figures remain fairly unimpressive by modern standards, but this SS may go some way towards addressing that perceived shortcoming. The 305 is now a distant memory, and a rebuilt 350ci V8 occupies the space it vacated. The specs of the replacement small-block are unclear, but it is safe to assume that the winning bidder will have considerably more available under their right foot. The only issue identified by the seller is the tires, which have dry-rotted. Otherwise, this Monte Carlo is a turnkey proposition that runs and drives well. If the buyer throws on a new set of tires, this SS will be ready to hit the road for a spot of motoring fun.

This Monte Carlo’s interior is a surprise packet, especially considering how sun-baked the Silver paint is. I expected a sea of sun-rotted trim and crumbling plastic, but this car has largely avoided that fate. The dash pad has succumbed to UV exposure, with several visible cracks. There are various options available for the winning bidder to address that shortcoming, ranging from a simple dash mat for around $50 to a replacement pad, which will lighten their wallet by approximately $700. An excellent compromise could be a cover, which glues over the original pad. These items have come a long way since early examples hit the market, and are often indistinguishable from a genuine pad. Retailing for $150, this could be the most cost-effective solution. Otherwise, the Gray cloth and vinyl trim is free from significant wear and physical damage, the carpet looks impressive for its age, and there are no visible problems with the console. The factory stereo has made way for a more modern CD player, which appears to be the only aftermarket addition. The Monte Carlo originally featured air conditioning, although it appears that a few engine bay components are missing. Otherwise, the buyer receives sports gauges, power windows, power locks, cruise control, and a leather-wrapped tilt wheel. Apart from the A/C, the seller indicates that everything works as it should.

The 1986 model year proved a banner one for the Monte Carlo SS, with 41,164 buyers giving one of these classics a new home. That represented a sales record that was never surpassed, and when the 200 Aerocoupe variants were added to the mix, represented a staggering 34.8% of the Monte Carlo’s entire production total for that year. The seller has listed this SS here on eBay in Las Vegas, Nevada. It is sometimes difficult to gauge the relative desirability of a classic, but this one leaves no doubts. Fifty-five bids have pushed the price beyond the reserve to $9,500 with plenty of time remaining on this auction. Is this a classic that draws you irresistibly, or would you prefer an unmolested example?