The Chevrolet Chevette replaced the Vega on the company’s subcompact roster in 1976 (though the Vega would continue through 1977). By comparison, the Chevette was boring compared to the Vega, which had become controversial because of premature rust and overheating engines. As a result, the quiet and unassuming Chevette would stick around for 12 years. This 1982 edition is a one-owner car with 35,000 miles. It needs some mechanical TLC but does run and drive. Located in Greenwich, Connecticut, this future collectible (?) is available here on Facebook Marketplace for $2,850.
Perhaps the most exciting thing about the Chevette was that it was the first U.S. automobile that was produced to metric standards. That’s it, folks. It was still a rear-wheel-drive car that used a carbureted engine for propulsion. Besides the 2.8 million copies that were built, Pontiac cloned the car, and it was also marketed in Canada. Dull was its best-selling point, as it would hit #1 on the U.S. sales charts for small cars in 1979 and 1980.
As the story goes, this Chevy belongs to the seller’s grandfather. He was a Chevy mechanic for 40 years but has since retired. He and Grandma bought the little car new 44 years ago and have only put 35,000 miles on the odometer. Most of the time, it stays in a climate-controlled garage. It looks like a used car, so we assume the body, paint, and interior are all original and are in serviceable condition.
While the little Chevy runs, drives, and stops, some work will be needed to improve those things. For example, it’s stubborn to start and stay running, so a carburetor rebuild or replacement is the likely solution. Also, the exhaust manifold has developed a small leak, so you’ll hear the Chevette coming and going. This seems like a great little project with a big unanswered question: will the Chevy Chevette ever be a true collectible? And thanks for the tip, Zen!
Yes, I think it will be collectible. Nostalgia drives things like this. I remember a friend in high school had one. It was abused and poorly maintained, but we all loved that little yellow bastard (the car, not the owner, but we loved him too). We had great times in it, and seeing this Chevette brings that back for me. That’s why I hope it becomes one of those affordable collector cars that folks with less means can own and love. Also, they were easy to work on and Rear Wheel Drive. Thanks, for the memory blast.
You are correct. There is a segment of buyers who go for “regular” cars, even if those who make their money on auction show muscle would try to convince us otherwise. It’s not as well-heeled, but it’s there.
I’d offer him between $2,000 to $2,500, then fix the engine and use it for a grocery getter.
About as inspirational as two buck toothed hookers on a Friday night BOGO.
Good day to you!