This 1980 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, available now on Barn Finds, is a rare two-owner example with an incredible backstory and a well-preserved presentation. Currently located in Bristol, Connecticut, it shows 116,000 miles and retains its original 305 V8 with 4-barrel carburetor, automatic transmission, and a clean title.
The story begins in 1980 when Ruth Huff purchased this Monte Carlo new from Chic Miller Chevrolet in New Britain, CT. A lifelong car enthusiast, Ruth opted for the most desirable combination available that year: the 305ci V8 with 4-barrel carburetor, a Landau vinyl top, and a host of convenience and appearance options. She added factory air conditioning, power steering, power disc brakes, gauge package, limited-slip rear end, stainless side trim, tinted glass, intermittent wipers, high-intensity headlamps, and a rear-window defogger. Finished in striking Mid Camel Metallic with a Light Camel interior, the car embodied a balance of style and practicality.
Ruth drove the Monte Carlo sparingly, always keeping it garaged and avoiding winter weather whenever possible. Upon her passing, she gifted the car to Joe—the son of the man she once worked for. Joe shared her passion for automobiles, maintained the Monte Carlo himself, and continued to preserve it as a special part of his collection. Following his passing a year ago, the car is now being offered by the estate.
Today, the Monte Carlo presents as an honest, unmolested survivor. The V8 fires up easily, running smoothly though the alternator is beginning to show signs of wear. A new exhaust system from the catalytic converter back has been fitted, and with some minor attention, the drivetrain will be ready for many more miles. The body is very straight with only a few small blemishes and a section of rust at the rocker ahead of the driver’s door. The Mid Camel Metallic finish still shines well, especially after a cut and buff, and the contrasting vinyl top enhances the classic profile.
The interior is remarkably well preserved, with only light wear on the driver’s seat and minor scratches on the door trim. The dash is near perfect, and all features—including gauges, clock, horn, wipers, and lights—remain functional. The heat works, though the air conditioning will need a recharge to operate at full capacity. Documentation includes the original window sticker and receipts from Ruth’s purchase, including the trade-in of her 1973 Buick.
This Monte Carlo is the kind of survivor that shines at local shows and cruise nights, offering an affordable entry point into classic Chevy ownership. With its documented two-owner history, desirable options, and attractive condition, it’s a car that bridges nostalgia with day-to-day drivability.
Would you keep this Monte Carlo as-is and enjoy it as a survivor, or would you take it a step further with a cosmetic refresh?
Smooth car. Love these oft-maligned malaise cars from the 1978-82 period. Whoever gets this will get a head-turner.
Interesting (to me) factoid … Through the 1950s and 60s in Connecticut, your license plate’s first letter corresponded to the town in which you lived. So the ‘B’ in this car’s case stood for Bristol, which means this combination has been on the road for a long time. My aunts and uncles lived in Norwich during this time period and all of their plates began with ‘N.’ My wife’s grandmother lived in Lyme, so hers began with ‘L.’ All of those plates are still on the road today. So if you see a two-letter, three-number plate in Connecticut, chances are that combination has been in use for over 70 years.
Up until 2003 (I believe), you could still use the blue-white ‘Connecticut’ plate that first debuted in 1956/7.
I am a fan of Monte Carlos, owned a 1971 and a 1984 SS. However, as far as I am concerned, the 1978-1980 design is not attractive, with 1980 being the ugliest Monte Carlo ever produced. At least GM fixed the problem with the 1981 redesign.
It does look like a really nice 2 owner car that was very well kept over the years. Very nice color also. Almost anything now that’s from this era I enjoy seeing as you just never see them anymore and they all used to be our everyday cars we saw daily but are now long gone. If I did ever own a 80’s Monte Carlo though it would have to be one of the really cool looking SS versions.
Every vehicle has a story, some are more intriguing than others. Somewhat curious build on this one. No tilt or cruise. My elderly neighbor had a ’76 Cutlass without these options, also. Not a big deal for consumers that didn’t grow up with these features. Wonder why front license plate isn’t mounted in the center? Like a said, they all have a story…
I’m representing this Monte Carlo for the estate.(Plus a few more yet to come to market .. and two roll-a-way Craftsman tool boxes .. 6′ tall, full of tools).
Please feel free to contact me with any questions, for more photos and videos.
Thanks!