When it comes to collecting cars, there are a few rules of thumb to choosing a vehicle you can enjoy while still being able to sell it down the line. This is a lesson I’ve learned the hard way, as there is such a thing as “too obscure.” So shooting for mainstream classics with loads of appeal – while still being a limited production model – is the way to go. A Monte Carlo SS Aerocoupe is such a car, desirable for the model’s widespread favor among Chevy enthusiasts and for the limited production nature of the modified two-door design. This example is listed here on eBay with no reserve and bidding at $7,700 at the moment.
Just over 6,000 Aerocoupes were made, making it one of the rarer GM products you can buy from the 1980s. The added appeal of these Aerocoupes is that they are respected among both the muscle car crowd and fans of the Radwood movement, which celebrates iconic models from the 80s into the middle 90s. The Aerocoupe came in a limited palette of colors, and while black with red is synonymous with the Monte Carlo SS, this example will need a respray – or at least several hours with a detailer – to come back to life. The seller notes it is otherwise “rock solid” and has no history of accidents.
The interior was standard Monte Carlo SS fare, with this example wearing burgundy upholstery and carpets. The automatic transmission was also standard, and the drivetrain featured the usual assortment of high-performance-focused options that came with the SS package. A gauge package with tachometer and the sport steering wheel seen here were also part of the kit. The seller notes the interior is largely unaltered from stock, save for an aftermarket radio. There are some flaws, including dashboard cracks, a broken armrest, and tears in the upholstery.
The engine features a replacement long block installed by the servicing dealer at 49,000 miles; there’s now 81,569 miles on the clock. Other alterations include an Edelbrock carburetor and air cleaner, with the seller noting that the original carb is missing but that the factory air cleaner is included. While it is cosmetically challenged, the seller claims it can be driven anywhere immediately without issue – and since the A/C hasn’t been “tested,” the fall is a good time to take a long drive without dependable air conditioning. Where do you think this rare Aerocoupe SS will end up price-wise?
I got a headache from trying to view all the variously oriented pictures in the Ebay ad; not conducive to making a good sale! Seems to be a relatively solid, slightly needy car. GLWTA!! :-)
Gone…
I was a huge fan of the Monte back in the day; loved em but wasn’t really a fan of the SS Aerocoupe, I prefer the regular look. Now a 2-door Aerocoupe ‘80s Impala? Yes please 😎
Was the Pontiac Aero rarer?.
Yes, 1185 made, all with same package, same color, same drive trains. Separate and distinct from the SS aerocoupe
I talked to a guy here in the town I live in that has a car just like this car. His has the same paint color as this car in the add but I don’t remember what color the interior is. His car has the 305 for an engine if I remember right. He told me this model of monte carlo was built for nascar but never used. I don’t know how true that is though.
It was indeed used from 87-89 until the Lumina was ready.
I owned 3 Aerocoupes over the years. Just never had the power I craved but always liked the looks of the car. The trunk on the other hand wasn’t very functional.
I still never understood why Chevy didn’t put in the tuned port 305 or 350. They could have raised the rear gear to a 3.23 or 3.42 And likely net the same fuel mileage as the turbo 3.8 in the Buick.
The original gearing was a 3.73 btw.
My guess is that Chevrolet management decided that the Monte Carlo SS had to be slower than a Camaro IROC-Z to preserve the Camaro “mystique,” much like the way the Camaro had to be slower than the Corvette.
One of the best stories about these aero cars is the this guys knows a guy that knows a guys whose cousin got the factory to sneak the vette engine is his car story.