Is the fourth generation Chevrolet Caprice a classic just yet? Some would argue it is, especially with its legacy as a police car and taxicab, not to mention the sleepy SS sedan that was a modern muscle car wrapped in family sedan clothing. While finding survivors is getting harder to do, the standard-issue sedan hasn’t quite risen to collector car status just yet. That said, the seller of a barn find example in Orlando may be outpacing the market a bit in thinking this project car is worth $3,000, but in a few years, it could look like a fair price. Find the dusty Caprice here on craigslist for $3,000.
Now, here’s the problem: if this was just a dusty Caprice that needed a fuel pump, you could potentially see a justification for $2,000. But the mildew-stained interior isn’t a good sign, even if the seat upholstery looks surprisingly nice. I’ve never been one to be totally grossed out by things like this, but that steering wheel looks pretty rough. The other question is whether the moisture has been allowed to sit anywhere else, like under the carpets or in the trunk, or if this is just a case of a loose seal somewhere that caused the cabin to turn into a tropical greenhouse every time it rains in Florida (which is often).
The pictures really do it no favors, as there’s a half-decent chance of a nice car hidden away in this Orlando garage. The paint should come back nicely as it doesn’t appear to be oxidized or losing its clearcoat, and fingers crossed the indoors storage has helped preserve the various seals and weatherstripping – but I’m not terribly optimistic given the moisture issues inside. The seller claims he is the original owner (or is perhaps listing it on behalf of the original owner), which is a hard quality to find among Caprices of this generation. Mileage is noted as being 163,000, which isn’t exceptional and seems pretty typical of a car from this era that was used as a daily.
The seller notes it comes with the venerable 305, which I believe was the base engine in most instances. The 5.7L is the one most enthusiasts want, so it’s not like this Caprice will be saved on the basis of its engine alone. Still, it’s a hard mill to kill, and parts are plentiful. The seller reports many extra parts will go with it; let’s hope one of them is a fuel pump, given that’s what the seller contends led to this one being parked for the last few years. I can see rescuing an LT1-equipped car at this price, but is a base model sedan at the point of saving just yet?
The seller has many extra parts to go with it. I’m guessing those gray seats and package tray are from another car. I wonder if the original seats were torn up or mildew covered? There doesn’t seem like a lot of upside here for 3k with high miles. If I were the seller I’d try to clean up that interior first.
Meth is a helluva drug.
mold in peace
Flood Car? Looks rough….
Sometime on a project there is a point where you throw in the towel. This is such a sale.
Here is the real reality people sitting on their chair do not understand.
To get it out of the garage may take weeks to uncover it. Air up the tires or change wheels. Then drag it out. Buy a battery. Coax it to start and run if possible. Powerwash and sanitize the interior. A liberal coating of Armor all.
Not done yet. Get pics. At least 50 to start. There will ALWAYS be those that need more. If possible take it to a repair shop so it can be put on a lift and get more pics. Again take as many as you can. There will be those that request even more. Walk around videos may be requested, Be ready.
When done. then make a comprehensive ad. List everything known by man. Even though it may not run. There will be those that don’t read and would like to drive it home.
If ANYONE has sold a car in the last 20 years you know this is what you expect. My guess this poor fella already knows this. Spending days to prepare in many cases isn’t worth the effort. Instead here is what is for sale and have at it. A very smart thing.
Good luck to him.
Located in Orlando, FL
This car would be in much better shape if it were made like those old VW’s that could float.
There are still enough of these available in very good condition for $3000 that buying this one makes no sense. I do think they are an appreciating classic.
My father in law purchased one of these in 1991 after their 1989 Caprice Brougham was totaled in an accident. The dealer they purchased the 1991 Caprice always ordered his Chevrolet’s with F41 suspensions. If ever I encountered a rear wheel drive Chevrolet in town and I could see the rear sway bar, almost always it came from that same dealer. Anyway, after owning it for a few months, they were dissatisfied with the harsh ride. They were used to the softer ride. They traded it for a 1992 with normal suspension.