We’ve recently seen an influx of low-mile classics at Barn Finds, and this 1979 Chevrolet Caprice Classic continues that trend. It presents superbly, and the 44,000 original miles on its odometer equates to around 978 miles per year. It is safe to say that nobody has gone out of their way to wear out this survivor. The seller is its second owner but feels that the time is right for it to find a third. Therefore, they have listed the Caprice here on Craigslist in Omaha, Nebraska. They set their price at $22,000, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Rocco B. for spotting this stunning survivor.
Chevrolet’s Third Generation Caprice range appeared for the 1977 model year, and to say that the latest offering was smaller than its predecessor is an understatement. The company lopped over 5″ from the wheelbase, and over 10″ from the overall length. Weight dropped accordingly as Chevrolet sought to counter dwindling engine power and performance by placing many of its vehicles on a diet. The seller confirms they are this classic’s second owner, having purchased the Caprice from the son of the elderly original lady owner. It has been garage-kept its entire life, and this is clearly demonstrated by its overall condition. The Pastel Blue Metallic paint looks flawless, and, like the panels, nothing justifies criticism. There are no rust problems, and the glass is crystal clear. The trim is in first-class condition, and the wheel covers are free from marks and scratches.
Apart from low odometer readings, we are seeing a growing trend of sellers listing their classics with no engine photos. This Caprice is no exception, but the seller does furnish us with enough valuable information to assess its specifications and health. The engine bay houses a 305ci V8, producing 130hp and 245 ft/lbs of torque. A three-speed Hydramatic transmission sends the power to a 10-bolt 4.11 rear end, while power steering and power brakes were standard equipment. Outright acceleration will be fairly pedestrian by modern standards, but city traffic and cruising at freeway speed shouldn’t pose many challenges. The seller confirms that this Caprice has been meticulously maintained since Day One, and has a genuine 44,000 miles showing on its odometer. They hold documentation dating back to the day it rolled off the showroom floor, and potential buyers can consider the Chev a turnkey proposition.
When you examine this Caprice minutely, it is easy to see how it has accumulated a collection of show trophies that the seller is including in the deal. The interior continues the Blue theme in cloth and vinyl that is in exceptional condition. There is no wear or other signs of abuse, and nothing has succumbed to UV exposure. The seller installed a CD player as the only aftermarket addition but includes the factory radio if the buyer wishes to return the interior to its original appearance. It isn’t loaded with factory options, although the buyer will undoubtedly welcome the ice-cold air conditioning.
This 1979 Chevrolet Caprice Classic is a wonderful survivor that is ideal for someone seeking a 1970s survivor that can be driven and enjoyed immediately. The reality is that the seller’s price is well above the market average, but the car’s condition is also a long way above average. Whether that is enough for the seller to achieve a successful sale is hard to tell, and it will be fascinating to gauge your opinion. Do you think the Caprice will soon head to a new home or will compromise be required for that to happen?
Wow!!! This Caprice is immaculate. Ive mentioned before I had a 77 Delta 88 this exact color and the interior the exact color, carpet and all as this Chevy. That color blue was one of the harder ones to keep from fading and peeling. I cant get over how great the paint looks, and look at that carpeting, no fading that I can see. If you’re in the market for a 2 door ( you didnt see as many of then as the 4 doors and wagons which were everywhere) I think this is for you. It would be good to know if it has the THM350 or 200. (350 trans was way more robust). But even if it does have the 200 thats not an impossible fix.
Hope it gets cherished and enjoyed for many more years to come.
I had a 4 door similar to this, super comfortable. My was a 350 with 2.43 gears. Surprised it has 4.11 gears. Mine was an 89
I doubt this has and came with a 4.11 rear end, just doesn’t sound right. Three speed automatic without overdrive would make this engine pretty busy in the rpm dept with a 4.11
Certainly not 4:11s, and although a beautiful car, not worth that price. Even if it had every option, and this one doesn’t seem to have any.
No way this car came with 4.11 gears, not even the Z28 or Corvette cam with gearing like that. More likely 2.43’s. That said, this is a beautiful car. I loved the hot wire bent rear window. I had a 77 Impala and loved it. I would like to restore on of these as a what if Impala SS, but not this one. It deserves to be enjoyed just like it is.
I agree, would love to build one of these with a hot engine (a crate ZZ6 should do the trick). But as you said, this isn’t the one for that, it deserves to be preserved and enjoyed.
Nice example. Was selling Chevy’s during this time and sold a ton of these. They were nice driving, comfortable cars despite the downsizing. One of my buddies bought a two door like this in black over camel. The hot ticket was to order the F41 sport suspension which provided sway bars and 70 series tires that looked a lot better. One of the managers used to order loaded out four doors for his “demo” and get real wire wheels installed and had the body shop add a two-tone paint scheme. One of memory was a white one with cranberry interior and silver on the sides. Sharp ride!
Mark, the beauty of these models is all the cop 👮♂️ car goodies are easily available to liven up the driving.
Freeway speed if it does have 4.11s hahahaha…
Classic!
Gorgeous ride. Simply equipped for long term enjoyment. Love the rear glass to this day. Kudos for using imagination to produce a beautiful car that stands the test of time.