Sometimes, subjectively speaking, the first is the best! That’s been my view of Chevrolet’s Monte Carlo and today’s example is a first of the first, an introductory year 1970 edition. Not owned for long, the current seller purchased this Monte a few months ago and now wants to move it to its next caretaker. It shows pretty well but let’s take a closer look. Found residing in Levittown, Pennsylvania by Rocco B., this MC is available, here on eBay for a current bid of $9,400 with 58 bids tendered so far.
My first-generation Monte Carlo favoritism extends strictly to appearance – Chevrolet designers nailed it IMHO. Personal luxury coupes had made significant inroads by the late ’60s, all you have to do is review Ford and Pontiac’s success with the Thunderbird and Grand Prix, respectively, to realize this was an emerging market segment. And number one seller Chevrolet had no entry! Since going fast was still very much in vogue in ’70, Chevrolet introduced a special, low-production volume (3,823 built according to Hemmings) Monte known as the SS454 – it was a way to haul hindside in comfortable style. If the preference was the employment of Chevrolet’s largest engine, the SS 454 package (RPO Z20) was the only way to get it. So, that begs the question, is this Monte Carlo a genuine SS 454 model? The identifying rocker panel badges have been removed and the VIN tells us nothing more than this is a ’70 Monte Carlo that was built in Baltimore. It has the seemingly proper transmission and differential – but more on this entire matter to follow.
I think this car looks pretty good, though I can’t decide on the hue, brown (no thanks) or black cherry? The seller states, “Paint job could use attention since some imperfections are coming back out after last paint job” Apparently Maaco is responsible. It does have some nicks, chips, and scrapes but still, the presentation is pretty good. Likewise with the black vinyl roof covering, there are no signs of split seams, rips, unraveling, etc. The two biggest takeaways I would suggest are the loss of the rocker panel moldings (supposedly included in the sale) and the weak rear bumper chrome. If you want to see more, check out this video (it’s long but informative in a way that the listing isn’t; the seller reminds me of, “Your cousin – from Boston” but he seems to know what he’s doing).
The original engine should have been a 360 gross HP 454 CI V8 engine – the video states that while a 454 is in force now, it’s not the original powerplant and a small block was in residence on day one. Regardless, what’s under the hood has a “healthy cam and runs AMAZING!” and is further described as, “FAST and ROWDY! No Leaks or drips“. A likely non-original Turbo-Hydramatic 400, three-speed automatic transmission handles gear changes. Interestingly, the differential is a twelve-bolt but it’s an Oldsmobile twelve-bolt (which is really a ten) and a unit very different from the official Chevrolet twelve-bolt axle – they’re not commonly found anymore. That inclusion indicates that it’s a swap, right along with the engine and transmission.
If you want to see the interior, you’ll have to watch the video as there are no imagines in the listing. In a nutshell, it’s a standard black vinyl bucket seat and center console affair (with a smashed console lid). The headliner has been replaced, the radio is missing and there is a huge racing-style tachometer that occupies a lot of visual space. The upholstery, however, checks out, no holes or splits are noted. The black nylon loop carpet is doing exactly what it always does with age, it fades to brown. This is an air-conditioned car and all of the parts are in place but it’s a non-working system.
The video is probably the most unique aspect of the entire listing, I’ve not seen one like it before. So, what the next owner will be acquiring is a standard 1970 Monte Carlo coupe with a healthily modified engine and drivetrain, perfect for hooning, if that’s your thing. It’s not the Monte Carlo that I would envision for myself but I’m sure that it will have a lot of broad appeal (seventeen different bidders!) – might you be interested?
Had to google “hooning”–must be a west coast word.
The term hooning is from Australia.
If this car has 454 engine it’s not the original engine. The 454 was only available in the Monte Carlo in 1970 when optioned as a SS model. A quick look under the hood reveals that none of the air level system that was standard equipment on a a SS 454 Monte Carlo. The compressor would be mounted on the driver side inner fender well. This is not a car originally equipped with a 454 engine.
If you watch the seller’s very entertaining video, you will see that in no way he implies that this had a factory installed 454.
I always loved the gen 1 Monte Carlo. A small block would have been enough for me, but with bucket seats and the center shifter package
Installing the lower stainless steel trim along will make a vast improvement in this car’s appearance. It’s one of my favorite features on the first generation Montes.
Love these authors speculating on anything but the facts. Owner states it’s originally a small block.
Case closed.
Just as bad as the Thunderbolt a couple weeks ago…
It’s best to read the sellers ad for the additional information.
Love readers who don’t actually read the post. No speculating, I, the author, clearly stated:
“The original engine should have been a 360 gross HP 454 CI V8 engine – the video states that while a 454 is in force now, it’s not the original powerplant and a small block was in residence on day one”
The seller’s statement, via the video, means, as others and I stated, this is not an SS 454 Monte Carlo.
JO.
So, that begs the question, is this Monte Carlo a genuine SS 454 model? The identifying rocker panel badges have been removed and the VIN tells us nothing more than this is a ’70 Monte Carlo that was built in Baltimore.
Exactly, and thanks for quoting me verbatim, the listing begs questions and the video tells us, as stated in the write-up, that this is not the real thing.
BTW, no credit given for reading the post after the fact!
JO
yep not a real ss. Also the taillight bezel inserts are cross checked 71 and 72 had those. 70 should be just outlined to hold in the lens.
Beautiful looking car. I’ve always loved the 1st generation Monte Carlo. This was before I was born, but I remember seeing cars like this as a boy. I’d buy one if it were sold here in Seattle Washington. Oh well. I hope whoever buys it enjoys it. 🙂
Wow, maybe it’s just me…but a lot of the readers here sure don’t have very high standards for a car if they think this is “beautiful”. This thing is horrible.
Missing way too much of its moldings and trim. Looks like a cheapo “fix-it to fliip”.
A friend back in my school days (Ford was president) had 1 of these, but a real 454 as his winter car until it was stolen. Then he found another one. But, it was too nice to winter drive so he restored it. Not sure if they were 70’s or 71’s. Personally, I didn’t have the money to have put gas in it.
What’s a “Winter Car”, please?
Signed,
Texas Boy
First Gen Montes are beautiful cars, particularly with all the chrome trim and molding in place.
They are finally starting to come into their own the last few years, being recognized as a very capable and collectible classic/muscle car, especially if you’re lucky enough to score a genuine SS.
Also, any big block model with a four-speed manual tranny (nope, sorry… SS’s only came with the TH400 3-speed auto) is also a rarity.
I’d take one of these any day over a Nova, Camaro or Chevelle if given the choice. I mean, really… EVERYBODY has a Nova, Camaro or Chevelle. Give me an authentic SS Monte (or a ‘72 Custom with a 454) and I’m a happy boy.
That said, this one is a Frankenstein that should not be considered anything more than a driver quality classic.