Project builds aren’t for everyone, and some enthusiasts aren’t able to tackle one. Therefore, they either throw the ownership dream into the too-hard basket or search for turnkey classics like this 1985 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS. It recently emerged from an estate, and its overall condition suggests it was cherished by its late owner. It is an unmolested survivor needing nothing but a new home. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting the SS listed here on Facebook Marketplace in Cookeville, Tennessee. The seller set their price at $27,500, which is cash-only.
The SS badge reappeared as a staple of the Fourth Generation Monte Carlo range in 1983 and remained available until production ended in 1988. The big news for 1985 was the company’s decision to expand the color palette to four shades, with this car’s first owner ordering it in Silver. The overall presentation is impressive, with no obvious cosmetic imperfections. Having said that, assessing this color in photos is difficult because patchiness or matte areas can be hard to spot. However, I see nothing that sparks concern. The panels are straight, and rust doesn’t seem to be a problem. The graphics are crisp, there is no deteriorating plastic, and the glass is clear. This Monte Carlo would undoubtedly turn heads wherever it goes.
Although classed as a muscle car, this SS features enough creature comforts to make life on the road very pleasant. The new owner will climb aboard a classic featuring air conditioning, power windows, power locks, cruise control, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM stereo radio/cassette player. I can’t spot any aftermarket additions, and the only question mark is over the leather on the wheel. It looks slightly dry and patchy, but it may only need a dose of conditioner to improve its appearance and prevent further deterioration. Otherwise, the Gray cloth trim is in good condition, the carpet is clean, and the prone dashpad is crack-free.
Unsurprisingly, the 1985 Monte Carlo SS was V8-only territory. Every car received the company’s 305ci “HO” V8, a four-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The factory quoted power and torque figures of 180hp and 235 ft/lbs for the “HO” motor, and while those numbers aren’t startling, the power figure represents a welcome gain over the standard 305’s 150hp. The seller states that the odometer reading of 12,300 miles is genuine, although we may need to take the claim with a grain of salt if there is no documentary evidence. The listing includes an embedded video with the motor running, and it sounds as sweet as a nut. I think it is safe to assume that the Monte Carlo is a turnkey proposition.
Some classics seem to “mark time” in the market, with values barely climbing. The 1985 Monte Carlo SS isn’t one of those vehicles, with values increasing well above the market average. The seller’s price for this car isn’t cheap, but recent sales results suggest it is realistic. If the odometer reading could be verified as genuine, it would significantly improve the situation. Do you believe the mileage is accurate? If so, would you consider pursuing this SS further?
These used to be fairly inexpensive. Always good looking, except for the areo back models.
Just saw a mint one with 25k. Woman had it flooded and not starting. Had to show her to floor it and crank, pretty sure she fouled a plug or 2. Bad combination of carb and choked emissions control, with the huge mess under the hood.
Pre 72 or modern cars are much simpler.
I don’t understand the price. For 25k you can a way better real classic that turns heads and has power to spare.
I remember these cars back in the day and for an everyday driver, they were great. The performance was mediocre at best, this car couldn’t beat my dog with a full bladder. I’ve seen LS swaps that wake these cars up, but it’s a big investment, money I’d rather put into a real classic. For $15k, I’d take a look at it.
It’s always nice to see a 40+ year anything that has been unmolested.
This is a good find and will appeal to someone that has been looking for one.
Despite the dull paint, it looks great including the interior. If I were buying a Monte SS I’d want one that wasn’t modified and as original as possible, and this once definitely would be a contender. I’d very, very, carefully polish out the paint if possible. Silver was notorious for fading and peeling back then. The fact its all on there is great. Hope it goes to a good new home.
“Silver was notorious for fading and peeling back then”
In 1985, these cars were still being painted in non-clearcoat lacquer. The silver was notorious for failure as there are not as many solid pigments in the mix. The color was comprised of mostly metallics, and without a clear coat to protect it, the finish decays quickly. I owned a 1984 Monte SS in White and loved how it handled. Comfortable car! Wish I kept it, as I never thought these would command the price they do for a nice example now!
clean but the paint is dying so it will need a full dip. be worth 27k if didn’t need that.
But, hairy. If it wasn’t so damn good lookin’ it wouldn’t be Silver.
But, if it wasn’t so Silver it would NOT be so damn good lookin.
Truth be known, we all realize how gutless the car is. Sure is a nice place to start for say, a young person in their second or third year of high school.
If the mileage is genuine, and maybe it would polish up? Not too much of a reach on the price. With an OD transmission, 2004R, these were decent performers in their day. Just don’t pull up to a light with a Grand National.
My thinking..$20k, out the door. $6k, at least, in a body shop with qualified technicians who know the trade.
I am not talking Maaco.
Six grand will not paint this car correctly. I am talking about doors off, glass out, all trim and bumpers removed. The materials alone will be at least four grand. Oh, and Maaco is not a quality body shop. It is a franchised hack shop. You get what you pay for in this business!
Sounds crazy but try a paint correction and polish first. About $350 bucks. It did wonders for my ’95 Park Avenue’s finish! I’ve found that too many people do repaints when that isn’t necessary. Original paint is always worth more anyway.
I knew a lot of guys who’d buy these and build the engine up or swap it for a 350, and upgrade the intake/exhaust system. Didn’t take too much to get them well over 200hp. And the upgrades didn’t break the bank. In modified form, I always considered the MC SS to be a sleeper. Also — I can’t imagine paying over $15k for this specimen.
I agree on the price It’s a bit high . $12000 to $15000 is about right . I also agree on the mods that you can do to wake it . A friend of mine has one just like this , went to the extreme with it . custom drivetrain 500 hp , She likes to drive it as if she Stole it .
But, hairy. If it wasn’t so damn good lookin’ it wouldn’t be Silver.
But, if it wasn’t so Silver it would NOT be so damn good lookin.
Truth be known, we all realize how gutless the car is. Sure is a nice place to start for say, a young person in their second or third year of high school.
Remember these well back in the 80’s. Always thought they were great lookers. Maybe not pavement pounders but this was the 80’s. It looks in beautiful, original, unmolested shape minus a few details. Not sure about his asking price, but if the mileage can be verified I know these have been going up in value.