Chevrolet introduced the Caprice in 1965, an upscale version of the Impala. It would be immediately successful, and the first generation was around through 1970 (the same as the rest of the full-size lineup). The Caprice began as a response to Ford’s LTD (a gussied-up Galaxie 500). I’m probably in the minority as I think the ’70 models are more attractive than the ‘65s, which had record sales that year. This Caprice looks like a survivor, though the seller provides few details on the car’s 55-year history. Located in Fresno, California, this snappy Chevy is available here on craigslist for $18,000 as a tip from Barn Finder T.J.!
All the full-size Chevrolets were treated to a light restyle in 1970 (back when that was a regular occurrence with automakers). Of Chevrolet’s four main nameplates in the full-size range (Biscayne, Bel Air, Impala, and Caprice), the Caprice was the second-best seller at 92,000 units. The Impala was king once again at 612,800 copies. These figures don’t include station wagons, as Chevy counted them separately in those days (the Caprice was called the Kingswood Estate).
The seller’s Caprice has the same lower body paint color as my 1970 Nova once did. But this car has a matching vinyl top, whereas my Nova had a painted white roof. The fancy interior on this Caprice also matches and looks great although the front carpeting may be a bit dirty or worn. This was not a totally decked-out Caprice as there are no power windows (and maybe no power seat). There may only be a touch of surface rust (like around the vinyl top but it’s hardly noticeable.
Under the hood resides a somewhat routine 350 cubic inch V8. It’s hard to make out, but I think the air cleaner says 250 hp, which would mean a 2-barrel carburetor, which is likely paired to a TH-350 automatic transmission. The seller does not mention running condition, but the reported 108,000 miles would be enough for some refreshing to be done or is needed. The car also seems to be sitting a bit low, possibly due to weak springs, some modifications, or just my imagination.
My grandma bought one of these new. It was the 4 dr. Hardtop in the same colors as this. It was her first car with factory air conditioning. She traded a 65 Biscayne with 6 cyl. and three on the tree. She thought she was in heaven. This looks like a good deal especially compared to the 73 above.
I can’t believe it has rally wheels instead of those stupid hub caps! I think it could use some new coil springs it’s a hangin low!
The coils were probably cut down. And I agree, those are nice looking wheels, though this car is lacking many of the Caprice options.
Consider its 55 years old, nothing wrong with it. Its better than some cars 50 years newer. This one is worth buying.