There was a time when I would give Station Wagons little more than a passing glance. I viewed them as vehicles that people bought through necessity, but my mind was changed years ago when I received one as a company car. I soon discovered the incredible versatility they offered, from the room to accommodate a large family to the space to haul bulky loads. This 1988 Chevrolet Caprice Station Wagon is a perfect example of the breed, and with third-row seating, it is ideal for the whole tribe to embark on a cross-country summer adventure. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Zen for spotting the Caprice listed here on Craigslist in West Babylon, New York. You could drive it away after handing the seller $14,950.

Some cars enjoy a relatively brief production run, but that wasn’t the case with Chevrolet’s Third Generation Caprice. It graced showroom floors from 1977 until 1990. It underwent its second significant mid-cycle update in 1986, with our feature Wagon emerging from the factory two years later. The seller states that it underwent a cosmetic refresh around a decade ago, receiving a repaint in its original Code 52 Beige at that point. I admit it isn’t the most exciting color available in that year, but it “works” quite nicely when teamed with the faux woodgrain to create a classy look. The lack of deterioration suggests the work was performed to a high standard, with the paint retaining a healthy shine and no evidence of significant woodgrain faults. The underside shots confirm that this classic is rust-free, which is a significant consideration for potential buyers not wishing to perform a restoration. The trim is in excellent order, the tinted glass shows no evidence of problems, and the Wagon’s sense of presence is enhanced by the wire wheel covers.

This Caprice scores a big tick in the column below the word versatility. The two-way tailgate provides access to third-row seating, providing room for this Wagon to comfortably seat seven. I consider the interior to be this classic’s highlight because its condition is mighty impressive. Wagons are typically used as family transport, with loose loads, kicking feet, sticky fingers, and the family dog all capable of exacting a heavy toll on trim and upholstery. However, it appears that this Caprice has avoided most of those pitfalls. The upholstered surfaces are free from wear and stains, and even the prone plastic in the cargo area is in good condition. The dash and pad are excellent, as is the carpet. The new owner won’t lack creature comforts when they hit the road, with this gentle giant featuring air conditioning, power windows, power locks, cruise control, a tilt wheel, and a factory stereo.

Powering this Caprice is a 307ci V8, teamed with a four-speed automatic transmission and power assistance for the steering and brakes. Chevrolet sourced the 307 from Oldsmobile, and with the Caprice tipping the scales at around 4,100 lbs, the engine’s 140hp provides performance that could best be described as competent. It won’t beat many vehicles off the lights, but setting the cruise at 70 on the open road won’t pose too many challenges. The seller indicates that this Caprice has been meticulously maintained and that it has a genuine 69,000 miles on the clock. They don’t mention verifying evidence, although the Service Records might provide adequate documentation. They say that the Wagon drives as nicely as it did in 1988, ready to transport the buyer and their family on a life of adventure.

I’ve previously discussed the lack of local options for buyers seeking a new Station Wagon and how buyers face the prospect of purchasing an import if they wish to park one in their garage. This 1988 Caprice offers an affordable alternative that would look right at home at a Cars & Coffee. A modern Wagon couldn’t achieve that feat, and nor will most offer the interior space this one provides. The third-row is a genuine bonus, making this beauty worth more than a passing glance.