Chevrolet joined the personal luxury market in 1970 with the Monte Carlo. Riding on the same modified A-body platform as the Pontiac Grand Prix, the new Chevy also borrowed some styling cues from the Chevy Chevelle (IMO). All of GM’s mid-size cars were downsized in 1978 for better fuel economy, so the Monte Carlo went on a diet as well. The seller has a 1978 MC that appears to be in solid condition, having nicely weathered the past 47 years. Located in Oak Grove, Oregon, this white-on-blue Chevy is available here on craigslist for $12,950 OBO. We appreciate “Curvette’s” continuing efforts to bring tips like this to our attention.
In its first eight years, the Monte Carlo had become one of Chevy’s top sellers, peaking at more than 410,000 units in the Colonnade era (1973-77). The reworked models of 1978 continued to hold their own, with 358,000 copies rolling off the assembly line to Chevrolet’s dealers. The revised cars were much lighter, so smaller engines could be used to get the same job done. The seller’s Monte Carlo has a 305 cubic inch V8, rated at just 145 hp thanks to detuning and a change in output measurements in 1972.
We’re told this car has been in stable hands since 2004, only having changed owners once in the last 21 years. The body, paint, and interior all present well, and it’s possible that all-original materials are still in play. The odometer reflects 98,000 miles, so the car certainly hasn’t always been a garage queen. Everything seems to work as it should, including the TH-350 automatic transmission.
Some maintenance items have been taken care of recently, including the battery and tires (having less than 300 miles). The only things that seem to be missing are the center caps for the Rally wheels, but perhaps they’re in the trunk or somewhere nearby. If you’re looking for a nice ride in the $12,000 neighborhood, this vintage Chevy should attract some attention.
Fresh off the Colonnade era Dixon, but still comfy creampuffs with cloud-mobile like rides. 😌
I was never so disappointed as when I sat in my first new ’78 A/G-body only to learn that the cross car roof beam made it impossible for me to sit up straight. Otherwise these are good looking, right sized cars.
nice clean monte. for 12k spring for some center caps and tuck up the wire mess under the dash
Why in the world would a seller not tidy up that wire harness before taking pictures?
I know. 10 minutes on your back and a little electrical tape or zip ties and you’re done.
I had one of these, bought it for $400 was a great family car when I had very young kids, the 305 finally crapped out and it went to the junkyard :(
I had the exact same car,but mine had T-tops and when it was new,it was exported to Italy. It spent many years there. I bought it from a friend of mine right after she had it shipped to Scottsdale. I bought it shortly after it arrived. The gauge’s were in kilometers. Also I kept the Italian license plate. Great car never gave me any trouble.
A girl l was dating in the military had one just like this one. All I remember is the Monty Carlos were dependable easy to work on and rode good. But with all those qualities is it a12k car.