Many enthusiasts agree that certain words, phrases, and terms are overused in the classic world. “Patina” is often mentioned, while “ran when parked” will often produce grinding teeth. “Time capsule” also springs to mind, although there are times when no phrase is more appropriate. Such is the case with this 1995 Chevrolet Caprice Classic. It has never been modified or restored and is a two-owner survivor with a genuine 59,000 miles showing on its odometer. Barn Finder numskal has a great eye for classics, and I must say a big thank you for spotting this beauty. The Caprice is listed here on Craigslist in Lompoc, California. They set their price at $8,500, making it an affordable alternative for someone seeking a comfortable and practical vehicle.
It is unclear when the seller became this Caprice’s custodian, but the purchased it from its original elderly owner. It has spent its life in a dry climate, with the underside shot confirming that this gem is rust-free. I have never been a particular fan of Black paint, although there are very few shades better for exposing panel bumps, bruises, or imperfections. Once again, the news is positive. There are a couple of small soft door dings, but otherwise, she’s as straight as an arrow. The paint holds a mirror shine, the plastic and glass are in good order, and the 15″ alloy wheels are free from stains and physical damage.
Chevrolet offered 1995 Caprice Classic buyers a choice of two V8 engines, with this car’s first owner teaming the smaller 4.3-liter unit with a four-speed automatic transmission and power assistance for the steering and brakes. This motor produces 200hp and 240 ft/lbs of torque, both figures considerably lower than available from the range-topping 5.7-liter powerplant. Therefore, outright acceleration is relatively sedate, although if the buyer pegs the needle at 70 on the open road, this car will reward them with fuel consumption figures on the good side of 22mpg. The seller doesn’t mention verifying evidence for their mileage claim, but they confirm that this survivor runs and drives perfectly. Therefore, the new owner could fly in and drive home behind the wheel of their new toy.
If the buyer does elect to drive this Caprice home, it sounds like they are in for a treat. The seller describes it as the most comfortable car they have ever owned, and it is easy to see why. With supple leather trim, air conditioning, power assistance for the windows, locks, mirrors, and seats, cruise control, and a premium AM/FM radio/cassette player, life inside this classic is unlikely to be a hardship. The driver’s seat exhibits some slight stretching on the base, but that is the only item worth mild criticism. The secret to its overall preservation is hidden subtly in the listing. The seller is losing their two-car storage, and this Caprice must go. They would prefer to send it to a new home than leave it exposed to the elements. That’s a fair indication that this Chev has been protected from the ravages of the sun since Day One.
Potential buyers should probably view this 1995 Chevrolet Caprice Classic as a practical vehicle offering instant enjoyment, and not as a rock-solid long-term investment. Values have dropped dramatically since the start of 2024, although the situation has stabilized since July. Does that mean they will climb to their former level? You need a crystal ball to answer that question. However, if the ownership experience is more important than a future financial return, this survivor deserves a closer look.
Nice n roomy to drive down to the lawn bowling club, or golf course ⛳️
If this is a 4.3l it is not a V-8. The 4.3 was called the Vortex and was a V-6
A very capable engine, but no barn burner in this monster car.
Yes, Chevy made a 4.3 V8 just for the Caprice.It’s known as the ‘baby LT1″. I think it was the L99 option code. I assume they made it to appeal to fleets looking for better mpgs?
Its so funny. I only knew about the 4.3 V6. I never knew about the baby LT1. But, once again, Im going to say that I learn something new every day! I wasnt a huge fan when these came out, but as time goes by they’re growing on me.
Wrong. The standard V8 in these cars in the ’94-96 years was this 4.3L V8.
Wrong. Chevy did make a 4.3 liter V8 just for the Caprice. It wasn’t as well known at the LT was. Look it up if you don’t believe us. If you look at the air cleaner cover it says V8.
Hi Rusty, actually from ’94 to ’96, the L99 4.3 V8 was produced, and the Caprice was the only vehicle it was ever available in.
The V-6 was dropped when the LT1 was introduced for 1994.
The base Caprice engine from 1994 onwards was indeed a 4.3 liter V-8, based on the 5.7 liter LT1.
I would think the soft springed mid ’70s full size fords,mercs,lincolns ride/absorb bumps better – even ’73-’78 torino type cars – even if this Caprice does not have a rear swaybar.