Affordable Cruiser: 1992 Chevrolet Caprice Wagon

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While the later years of the B-Body wagons flared up during the pandemic pricing surge, some normalcy has settled in on the earlier models that didn’t leave the factory with the powerful LT1 engine. Those examples have stayed pretty hot, but you can find the earlier 305- or 350-equipped models for fair money. Since many of these were grandma-owned grocery getters, condition is usually excellent, and while a bit slower out of the gate, these are still incredibly comfortable, high-utility cruisers. Find this 1992 Caprice listed here on craigslist for a reasonable $5,500.

The “aero-styled” B-bodies, as some enthusiasts refer to them as, were surprisingly slippery from a drag coefficient perspective, at least compared to their older siblings from the late 80s. But that anecdote alone is worth exploring, as it points to just how good these estate-bodied beasts were at multi-tasking. The obvious asset is loads of interior space, but they also drove well, accelerated decently (maybe “adequately” is a better turn of phrase for 305 vehicles), stopped with some authority, and could even tow a trailer without too much protest. Factor in the classic styling and you have a classic all-rounder.

And even in heavily-used examples not looked after by your grandma, condition is usually decent – pointing to the use of highly durable materials. Sure, the headliner might sag on some Marketplace finds, but even that’s not a big deal when not equipped with the gigantic moonroofs like the later cars came with. The four-speed automatic will churn along just fine, and even if you do encounter issues, these things were parts-bin friendly in terms of being able to find major service components shared across the GM lineup. No issues with the interior on this Caprice, which appears to be in outstanding condition.

The 1992 Caprice could be ordered with an optional 350, but this one has the standard-issue 305 ci V8. Power was a bit light, clocking in at 170 horsepower with around 255 lb.-ft. of torque. The latter is sufficient enough to help the whale of a wagon get out of its own way, but it won’t offer the slight visceral thrills that are achievable with the bigger V8s. The seller’s car has clearly been garage-stored as noted in the listing, with excellent cosmetics and an interior not showing any signs of major decay. For the price, this looks like an awesome value if you’re in need of a wagon. Thanks to Barn Finds reader Curvette for the find.

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Comments

  1. Old greybeard

    My wife and I camped across the country 2 years ago sleeping under a Leer cap in 6ft mid sized truck bed
    This would be much more comfortable. Fold down the seats, put up reflective curtain panels at night, Sears Xcargo on top, hitch carrier on back. Cheap camping rig. Easy to drive and 20+ mpg with a light foot.

    Like 13
  2. John Ishee

    Our last family wagon eas a Chevy Caprice Estate with the faux wood panels (unsure of the year). Normally not a Chevy fan but this car was fun to drive, though a heavy beast. Still, when you needed to pass, or get up from the ramp to the interstate, it could get up and go in a hurry. Absolutely no road or steering feel, but it could haul cargo or a** when you wanted to!

    Like 8
  3. chrlsful

    wagons are great (45 yr ownership of several). Wish they were still made.

    Neighbor hasa parisienne (’83/6) or what ever the nomenclature for the buick. My eyes sparkle every time I see it. A lill too big for me ( a ford fox body wagon, 106 inch WB, is mine now) but I’m w/greybeard & John. They can work in all kinza fashion.

    Like 5
  4. Jack Quantrill

    Co-worker had one of these bulbous beasts. Errant cyclist crashed into the rear, while it was parked. He fled, but left a front tooth in the rear glass!

    Like 7
  5. BA

    At this price and being in excellent shape a enterprising guy could LS swap this baby & have the best of all worlds!

    Like 2
  6. George Mattar

    Such a bargain and far easier to change spark plug wires than a 94 to 96 LT-1 engine. As me how i know.

    Like 2
  7. CHRISTOPHER LEMM CHRISTOPHER LEMM

    had one identical to the one that’s for sale, what a car, it was like driving around in my living room, I used it to tow cars, it pulled better than a truck, around three hundred thousand miles the oil pan rusted threw, I pulled the engine and trans, had the trans rebuilt and bought a new 305 good wrench engine, our son took it to college and then moved to Texas, he drove the car another six years and then sold it.

    Like 0
  8. Car Nut Tacoma

    Lovely looking car. I remember when this generation Chevy Caprice was intro’d. I found it way more attractive than earlier generations.

    Like 0

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