The Chevy Chevelle was redesigned in 1973, using GM’s new Colonnade styling technique that eliminated true hardtops. From 1974-76, the Laguna S-3 was the successor to the Super Sport and was only available as a coupe. This ’76 S-3 runs well thanks to a recent valve job and other work, but it cries out for some cosmetic attention. Located in San Gabriel, California, this Chevy is available here on craigslist for $5,500 OBO. Kudos to Barn Finder Rocco B. for this lesser-seen tip!
Beginning in ‘73, the Laguna replaced the Malibu as the top-line Chevelle, but the Malibu was still around and would take over in 1978. With a unique front end (that would later be popular for aerodynamics in NASCAR), the S-3 only racked up sales of 38,790 units in three years, compared to 1.7 million Chevelles in total during the 1973-77 run. So, the S-3 isn’t a common sight nowadays. The Laguna S-3 was treated to a beefier suspension system than the rest of the Chevelle population.
In 1976, your engine choices were a 140-hp 305 cubic inch V8, a 145-hp 350, or a 175-hp 400. The seller doesn’t mention which one is in this car, nor are any under-the-hood photos provided. But we’re told that the engine has been partially refreshed at 196,000 miles. And some new parts are now onboard, including the battery, radiator, and shock absorbers. The only mechanical flaw mentioned is that the automatic transmission has a fluid leak, but still shifts properly.
From the photos, the body looks good, though what may be the original white paint has gone beyond saving unless patina is your thing. The interior would be the problem child, as at least the front bench seat will need recovering and the dash pad replaced. But this all adds up to a rare car as only about 9,000 Laguna S-3s were produced in 1976, its last year.
Never was a fan of the 76, with that extended front cone and larger headlights and tail lights. Plus the rear bumper is almost double the size. Looks like it’s dragging a plow down the road. If this is your year, it’s likely a solid find if in fact it has spent it’s entire life out west.
Id leave this rough ‘n’ tumbler down around Laguna Beach ⛱️ 👋
Is the Custom Cloud looking better now?
Love to own it, I replaced the dash in a 75 Monte once it had about a zillion screws lol
WHAT!..a heap. This was one of my favorites for the circle dirt back in the 80s. I used several of these but all of mine had the swivel seats and one was a 454 version. I don’t think we ever paid more than 600.00 for any of them in turn key condition. This one here is rough to say the least and far overpriced IMO.
Us older guys remember when just all about all of these cars could be had for less than 2 weeks pay in nice condition so they are all overpriced
No, this is a tired ragamuffin. Even in the ad , it leaks, no doubt squeaks, paint done, mileage is high, and who knows how it was cared for. Hooch ate the interior. I am sure it will look worse in person than in the photos. A 1,500.00 car period.
I thought California cars don’t rust. This guy must have washed this one in the ocean.
Maybe they didn’t sell many of these because they put bench seats and column shifters in a sport trim car. Duh
Sorry, this one appears to be a little too beat to pay $5500. He says “or best offer?” … my best offer would be $2,000. At that price, you could fix the interior, drop a crate engine and tranny into it.. then have a whole lot of fun!
It’s an ugly pos