The SS proved a popular choice among Mone Carlo buyers in 1985, accounting for nearly 30% of total sales that year. Many were driven into the ground, although a surprising number still grace our roads today. This SS is a gem, presenting superbly, and only featuring a couple of easily reversed modifications. It is ideal for someone seeking a turnkey classic and comes with a known history. It certainly deserves a close look to see what it offers its next owner.
The seller indicates that this Monte Carlo has been part of the same family for the past thirty-four years, and has been treated respectfully during that time. It has remained garage-kept, and the car’s presentation supports those claims. The Black Cherry paint, which I believe was the nicest color to grace an SS, looks superb. There are no significant flaws or issues, although a close inspection will almost certainly reveal small chips or marks. The panels are laser-straight, and there is no evidence of existing or developing rust. The stripes and decals are crisp, and the wheels are spotless. This SS seems to have no cosmetic needs and is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.
Lifting the Monte Carlo’s hood reveals the 305ci “H.O.” V8 and the first of two identified modifications. The engine produces 180hp and 235 ft/lbs of torque, which feeds to the road via a four-speed 200-4R automatic transmission. The “H.O.” engine isn’t a fire-breathing beast, but it provides a worthwhile improvement to the Monte Carlo’s performance. A standard 305-equipped vehicle will cover the ¼-mile in 18.4 seconds on its way to 117mph. The SS slashes the ET to 16.4 seconds and lifts the top speed to 129mph. This classic’s drivetrain is original, but the engine now wears aftermarket Edelbrock headers. The improved breathing may have unlocked a few additional ponies, but probably not too many. It has a claimed 71,200 miles on the clock with no mention of verifying evidence. However, since it has been meticulously maintained, the seller might hold records to support the claim. It runs and drives perfectly, and is ready to hit the road with its new owner behind the wheel.
Interiors from the 1980s have a reputation for deteriorating, with plastic particularly prone to issues caused by repeated use and UV exposure. That isn’t the case with this SS, although potential buyers must scroll through the seller’s photos to gain clear insight into every aspect. The driver’s seat shows some visible wear, but the remaining upholstered surfaces are spotless. The carpet is clean, the dash and console are excellent, and a newer Kenwood CD player is the only addition. This is the second of two reversible changes that I identified earlier, and with the seller including the original stereo, returning the interior to a more stock appearance should only take a few hours. The first owner ordered this classic with welcome creature comforts, including air conditioning, power windows, power locks, cruise control, and a leather-wrapped tilt wheel.
The seller listed this 1985 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS here on eBay in Cheshire, Connecticut. Six bids have pushed the price to $10,000, which is below the reserve. The car’s overall condition, history, and odometer reading make $20,000 a potentially achievable target for the seller, although I believe it will probably fall short of that mark unless the auction action intensifies. The listing’s viewing history suggests it might happen, but it is a case of sitting back and observing proceedings…unless you wish to join the bidding war.
Nice SS, but always preferred the look of the optional aluminum wheels.
I love steel wheels almost all the time. But not this time. 💯 agree Matt.
Standard 3.73 gears ⚙️ helped move these Monte SS models along.
From Street Muscle Magazine: “In Mexico, in 1984, and only 1984, you could have purchased an SS with an LM1 350 V8 and a 4 barrel Rochester Quadrajet hooked up to a 4 speed manual gearbox. Not only that, but the Saginaw transmission also came equipped with a Hurst shifter. Other variations from the American version included the elimination of the SS rear spoiler, different side graphics, checkerboard style wheels, different mirrors, special steering wheel, no center console, only power locks, only manual windows, and the interior was styled using Pontiac Grand Prix parts rebranded with the SS logo.” https://www.streetmusclemag.com/news/this-aint-no-chupacabra-but-its-just-as-rare-the-mexican-monte/
There used to be a member on here at B.F. that knew all of the Mexican models and would often post about them. It was always interesting to see all the differences, so I miss those posts.
The 305 was a dog motor H.O. Or not .
Thrown into anything Chevrolet made back then from a truck to the elcamino . The car road nice and thats where it ends. The Ford mustang Gt of
The same year ate this car up. Its is a nice example but move along if you want something of that year to play with.
As stated with someone else’s reply above mine put a
350 with 4 or 5 speed and you had my attention. Test drove brand new ones back then. The Camaro and Mustang was a much better car to actually row gears. Putting the SS stickers on didn’t make go fast.
As I stated earlier it is a well preserved example and good luck to the buyer and seller.
A very nice 87 with a 330 hp crate 350 just went on Bring a Trailer for a little under $18k. Automatic, but that is fine with me for a nice weather weekend car. That is where I’d rather spend my money, on one with more power.
They should have made an American version like the Mexican Model with the 350 in it!
This morning, I posted a detailed listing about the Mexican version, but my posting seems to have disappeared/been removed?!?
Oops! Wasn’t signed in, LOL!!
All these need is a 350, bought mine with a crate motor in it, a totally different car !! 3.73s and 200 4r, Perfect !!
I have an 86, fixed that anemic 305 with a grand national drivetrain in 89, what a great car now!
The Hi Output 305s were rated at 190 SAE net hp. -in both Camaros and MCs.
Back then yuppies were more likely to drive BMW’s or Mercedes than Corvettes. You’re probably right about the GM brass not wanting to divert sales from the ‘Vette though.
Well at least it looked the part. Right car wrong time.
They sure made some history in NASCAR !
I’ve built a few 305 in my day. 400hp is easily attainable with decent vacuum. That and 3.73 gears would make this a spirited runner
Well, a new supercharged LS , bigger brakes , better suspension , more speeds on the transmission and you have a great car !