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September 10, 2020 3:35 pm by

Old School American: Chevrolet Caprice with 5.7 Liter LT1 V8

For September 10, 2020, our used car find is this 1996 Chevrolet Caprice Classic sedan with the optional LT1 V8 engine and just 44k miles on the odometer. It’s listed on craigslist by a private seller in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, for $7000.

Here’s what makes this one special.

Introduction

Introduced in 1991, the fourth generation Chevy Caprice is one of the last big, rear-drive platforms to come from Detroit. While its traditional body-on-frame design dates all the way back to the third generation’s debut in 1977, its sheetmetal was completely restyled for a more modern, aerodynamic shape.

Not everyone loved the new look. In its review at the time, Edmunds joked, “Shamu arrives!” But MotorTrend gave the new Caprice its Car of the Year Award, saying, “The thoroughly modern and aerodynamic exterior design was a surprisingly courageous decision on Chevy’s part, one we applaud for its solid step into the future.”

Nearly 30 years later, we think the design has held up well. It’s distinctive, especially in wagon form. And the capacious interior and trunk, as well as its cushy American ride, are charming throwbacks to a simpler era of motoring.

The Listing

This particular car is one of the coolest of the generation. First of all, it looks great in its original Medium Garnet Red factory paint, especially with the matching red interior.

It also benefits from great options like the 5.7 liter, 260 hp LT1 V8 (a detuned version of the Corvette engine), plus the Sports Performance Package and the Positraction Limited Slip rear differential. The net result is a big sedan that “moves with amazing alacrity,” according to Edmunds.

The asking price of $7000 isn’t cheap for an old Caprice. But we think the right buyer will be happy to fork over that kind of cash for such a unique piece of American iron. It’s hard to imagine finding a much cooler car for the money.

Details and Specs

  • 1996 Chevrolet Caprice Classic sedan
  • 44k miles
  • 5.7 liter V8 engine (260 hp)
  • 4-speed automatic transmission
  • Medium Garnet Red on red leather
  • for sale by owner for $7000
  • Stevens Point, Wisconsin
  • 1G1BL52P4TR155974

 

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