As the 1980s evolved and vehicle manufacturers began to get a handle on technology that helped address the engine power losses that resulted from tighter emission regulations, cars that rolled off lines during the 1970s were largely ignored. However, a few gems have survived to the present day, including this 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. It hasn’t merely survived but is in above-average condition for its age. The interest it has generated has been impressive, and it may not simply be the preservation that is key. The seller has listed this Caprice here on eBay in Wilmington, California, with No Reserve. Bidding sits at $4,550, with a new home only a few days away for this classic.
Chevrolet followed prevailing industry trends when it released its Third Generation Caprice range for the 1977 model year. Buyers were demanding smaller and more efficient vehicles, and the company delivered. The wheelbase and overall length were substantially reduced, while weight also dropped across the range. Customers rewarded Chevrolet, with 317,731 buyers taking a Caprice home in 1979. Our feature car hails from that year and is in exceptional condition for its age. The classy Dark Brown Metallic paint shines beautifully, with only a couple of dull spots on the roof as faults worth mentioning. There is no panel damage, and the supplied images confirm that it is rust-free. The trim is as impressive as the paint, and the glass is clear.
It is disappointing that the seller supplies no engine photos, but this underside shot clearly shows the solid floors and lack of apparent fluid leaks. The first owner equipped the Caprice with a 305ci V8, a three-speed automatic transmission, and power-assisted steering and front disc brakes. The 305 produces a relatively modest 125hp and 235 ft/lbs of torque, and with the vehicle tipping the scales at 3,779 lbs, it is fair to say that it will be more comfortable sitting at 70 on the open road than attempting to demolish the opposition in a “Traffic Light Grand Prix.” However, it should barely raise a sweat in heavy city traffic or wending its way through a shopping mall carpark. The seller purchased this survivor from the original owner in 2024, stating that it spent most of its life safely parked before coming into their care. That makes the claimed odometer reading of 44,000 miles plausible, although there is nothing like documentary evidence to remove any doubts. There is no information surrounding its mechanical health, although the provided impressions are positive.
The Caprice’s interior is probably more impressive than its exterior, especially considering the pale trim shade. The first owner selected Beige cloth and vinyl which is free from stains and significant wear. There is an odd stretched spot on the front seat, although its cause is unclear. The carpet is remarkably clean, and there is no broken or crumbling plastic. The first owner kept things pretty simple, passing on such options as power windows and cruise control. However, they selected air conditioning, an AM/FM radio, and a rear defogger.
Four-door classics are sometimes ignored by enthusiasts, although they do find favor with those seeking practicality. This 1979 Chevrolet Caprice ticks that box, which may explain why the listing has received 370 views in the past twenty-four hours and sixty-three people have placed it on their Watch List. Of course, that is meaningless if it doesn’t translate to auction action, but with twenty-five bids submitted, it appears that some of those have decided to let their wallet do the talking. If a practical and potentially affordable classic has been on your radar, would this car be one you might consider pursuing?
If Websters dictionary ever had 1979 Chevrolet Caprice in it………
This…….. Would be the picture……..
Brown paint, beige cloth seats, this is the epitome of 1979 here. I’m very impressed with its condition. If the paint is original, then its remarkable. And I have a feeling it is. The 305 should provide many mote years of motoring pleasure. And as Adam pointed out, you’re not going to be drag racing Corvettes for pink slips at every light, but these things cruised very nicely on the highway. Very nice find Adam.
When this car was new, the DeMeo crew would’ve removed it from the streets in a heartbeat. It would’ve been on a ship to Kuwait by morning. This is THE car that they were looking for
The color is called “Dark Camel Metallic.” That was literally a standard dealer ordered level of options on one for putting on the lot. Outside chance it may have been a rental car for about 6-9 months. Dad had at least 4 of those as a Co car and a couple of wagons that year.
I remember when these were everywhere it seemed. Very classy color combination but I think my tastes lean more to that Riviera featured here. This is probably more in my budget though.
Did most rust out or were they junked due to transmission issues?
Odd no manual trans was offered in this gen, but was for the gigantic prev gen!
My father in law in Oklahoma had one, and was constantly being asked if it was for sale by strangers in parking lots. Caprices were the hot ticket for families in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, and lots of them were stolen and shipped over in containers. It was still profitable for wholesalers to buy them and ship them, so lucky owners were getting more than trade in prices when they were ready to upgrade.
Wow, I did not know that. Learn something new on Barn Finds almost every day.
This sure is pretty. Good colors and great condition. Not hard to see why these were car of the year in ’77.
This Chevy has changed hands at least twice before on Bring-A-Trailer: (Sold for $15,750 on 3/14/24) and (Sold for $11,250 on 4/24/24). Best to check BAT and study the descriptions and comments before bidding. Lots of pictures and a driving video there as well. Search term “1979 Chevrolet Caprice“.
@Zappenduster the first BaT sale did not go thru due to non bidder. 2nd one is valid. Car sold on ebay for 9300 so BaT buyer got hosed.
Lovely car. I tend to be a Mercury or Ford man, myself, but I always respected these. I could own and drive it with pleasure — but not at north of $10,000, and all the way out in California. I also would find concern in the reality that it recently has sold twice before: what about the car has been fatally disappointing for buyers?
Lovely car. I tend to be a Mercury or Ford man, myself, but I always respected these. I could own and drive it with pleasure — but not at north of $10,000, and all the way out in California. I also would find concern in the reality that it recently has sold twice before: what about the car has been fatally disappointing for its buyers?
What does it mean, when you attempt to post, and a “forbidden” screen pops-up?