In the wake of changing dynamics in the gasoline supply chain, U.S. automakers began the process of downsizing some of their cars in the late 1970s. One of the first was the full-size Chevrolets which got smaller and lighter starting in 1977 but were just as roomy on the inside. That included the top-of-the-line Caprice, which was known as the Caprice Classic by 1984. This station wagon variant has triple seating and worn paint – along with an upgrade in the engine department. Located in Bellingham, Washington, this two-owner transport is available here on craigslist for $4,000 – and trades will be considered. This tip comes to us by way of Tony Primo.

Chevrolet added the Caprice to their portfolio in 1965, a jazzed-up Impala, to compete with Ford’s new LTD, an uplifted Galaxie 500. The Caprice was in continuous production through 1996, though it would be revived briefly in 2011 as an Australian import. So, when the Impala went on a diet in 1977, the Caprice naturally followed. A major restyling would occur in 1980 and the cars would be little changed thereafter. A 305 cubic inch V8 was standard equipment, hardly a barn burner.

This ’84 Caprice Classic has lost its 305 in favor of a more potent 350 cubic inch V8. But that was 125,000 miles ago and an unmentioned amount of time. We’re told it performs well and the seller wouldn’t hesitate to take the wagon on an extended road trip. Since the transplant happened 125k miles ago and the odometer reading is 37,000, we surmise the mileage counter has turned over twice. The automatic transmission is a newer rebuild at “just” 25,000 miles.

While the body seems okay, the burgundy paint has given up the ghost, at least on upward-facing surfaces. Fortunately, there is no fake woodgrain side paneling involved. The seller is skittish about test drives, so expect him/her to be the driver as long as you have the cash with you. And interesting trades are considered, such as swapping for a U-Haul trailer or the installation of a new roof (15 squares) if you’re licensed and bonded in that profession.