The Monte Carlo was Chevrolet’s popular personal luxury car in production from 1970 and into the 21st Century. The Colonnade generation of 1973 to 1977 was one of the few bigger cars whose sales defied the OPEC oil embargo of the decade. The seller’s ’76 Landau model is in good condition except in a few places (like the partial vinyl top). Located in Lakewood, Colorado, this modest project is available here on craigslist for $5,800. Our kudos go to Mike F. for the land yacht tip!
With rectangular instead of oval headlights, sales of the 1976 Monte Carlo were their best yet at 353,000 units. That result would only be bested by the nearly unchanged 1977 models which raked in another 411,000 customers. Why this was is a bit of a mystery because they consumed no less gasoline at a time when long lines at stations in 1973/74 were still fresh in people’s minds.
The seller’s car was not a garage queen for much of its life as the odometer reflects 107,000 miles. He/she is its third owner but advancing years signal that it’s time to sell. A rebuilt 350 cubic inch V8 resides under the hood where it’s been since being installed 12 years ago. Since then, no more than 3,000 miles have been added to this hardware. Newer work includes a tune-up, rebuilt carburetor, and a fresh battery.
There is some unfinished business. The factory air conditioning has given up the ghost, one power window doesn’t work, the Landau top is cracked and weathered, and what may be the original bronze paint could be washed out in places (photos). But the car has no rust, and the velour interior comes across as almost new. Some of the original paperwork for the car has managed to survive. And you’ll get a new car cover to use later!
Nice lines on this era Landau. Prefer the square headlite arrangement.
Nice example of this car that seemed everywhere back then, but is mostly forgotten now. This, the Cutlass, and Grand Prix were really home runs for GM, and rightfully so.
Headlights print to ’76 were round, not oval.
Headlights prior to ’76 were round, not oval.
fair price for what it is. owner said they have a car cover for it. by the looks of it looks like it was never used. fresh paint and paint the roof white instead of vinyl and add some rally wheels and you have cool cruiser. i remember buying these for less than 1k in this shape. time marches on
Take me Back to Monte Carlo! My 77 Monte Carlo was as exciting and beautiful as it’s namesake. A friend described that black (with gold pinstriping) as Sex On Wheels. Looking out over acres of sculptured hood made me feel ready to meet the Prince and Princess. And the *GO for Baroque* styling seemed like a sure bet!
Nice to see a Landau with its correct wheels. Mahogany paint with matching Special Custom interior and all the options is a treat to see. The 350 is a good choice as the 305 and 400 were the alternatives. Fix the vinyl roof and clean it up. Should be plenty enjoyable.
Educated guess the landau top looks like cat claws used it as a scratching post.
Personal luxury. Until someone needs a ride.
These are good cars and worth picking up at this price… although not perfect these long body styles are clean and desirable, because when they shortened this body style they ruined it for sure- this will be a future collectible and at almost 50 years old it will be a worthy car to keep and enjoy