Chevrolet’s Caprice was introduced in the mid-1960s as the top-tier trim level for the full-size line, offering more luxury and style than the Impala or Bel Air. By 1966, it was available with some serious power under the hood, including the mighty 396 cubic inch V8. This example, listed here on craigslist in PG County, Maryland, is a matching-numbers, two-door Caprice equipped with that desirable big-block. Unfortunately, it’s been sitting outdoors since 2017 and will require a full restoration, but the bones of something special are here for the right buyer. Thanks for the tip Mitchell G.!
The seller notes that the car has not been touched since it was parked eight years ago, meaning it has endured the elements. As a result, the condition of the floorboards and trunk is unknown, and some rust should be expected. The good news is that the Caprice still carries its original drivetrain, which adds to the car’s authenticity and potential value once restored.
Under the hood is a matching-numbers 396 V8 backed by its original transmission. The seller makes it clear that the motor and trans are not locked up or seized, which is an encouraging sign. That said, the rear end may be seized, so the car will need to be towed away. For a project car of this era, having a complete and free-turning drivetrain is a big advantage—it gives restorers something solid to start with rather than having to source replacements.
While no interior photos of seats and floors are provided, the Caprice was the flagship model in Chevrolet’s full-size lineup, which means it came with more upscale trim than its siblings. Even in project form, the allure of restoring a big-block, two-door Caprice is strong, especially since many of these cars were either driven hard or scrapped decades ago. Finding one with its original powertrain intact is becoming increasingly rare.
The seller is upfront that this Caprice “needs to be fully restored or used for parts,” leaving the decision to the next owner. Given its matching-numbers status, it would be a shame to see this car parted out. Properly restored, it could easily become a standout piece at shows or a desirable cruiser with big-block power.
Would you bring this Maryland-based Caprice back to its former glory, or is it too far gone to save?
Love these big block Caprices. Must’ve been a pleasure to cruise in once upon a time.
Once upon a time is the key phrase here. This thing is beat, 217k on the clock, rusted quarters and who knows what the frame and floors look like after sitting outside for years. $6800 is all the money for this beast imo.
My b-i-l’s first car. I found it with a broken lower control arm. Got it for $25.
It’s a 5 digit odometer that reads 21,700 on the clock, but I have a real hard time believing it’s not rolled at least once even though the numbers are straight as an arrow! Usually the first and second number become uneven after rolling 100k miles, they were designed to do that so dealers could tell at a glance if the miles were actual or over the mechanical limits.
how do you not know if the trunk has rust when the lid is open but know the rear is locked up. to me this ad has a lot of holes in it. needs an in person look over. its a neat car but after the resto you be under water with it.
Here we go with my comment. This car probably was nice a some point and why let it sit outside and for what reason. A big block Caprice with A/C and why do they think the rear is bad. This car would need a go inspection before buying it!
Column shifter means bench seat, which was a no cost option in the ’66 Caprice ~ standard was buckets & console w/floor shift. If you wanted a bench seat you had to special order it.
“NOT TAKING NOTHING LOWER THAN $6800!”
Double negative = this car can be had for less than $6800 – LOL!