1984 Chevrolet Caprice Classic Station Wagon 5.7 gas

Summary:

Deadly reliable

Faults:

In my eyes I have never had anything "go wrong" with this car, and it has never left me broken down or stranded considering the age of the car - 31 years old and ridiculously high mileage (310,000).

Things wear out with use and I don't count things like tires, brakes, hoses, belts, fluids, filters and tune ups as things going wrong - it's just maintaining the vehicle.

As far as maintenance costs, they are very, very, very reasonable; it's too bad they don't make cars this simple anymore.

Considering the age of the car, I am still able to get it serviced at a Chevy dealership if needed, and it's very easy to get parts for this car.

General Comments:

It's not the most attractive car (it's a brick), but it's deadly reliable, whether it's the coldest winter day or flying down the highway in the scorching summer heat with the A/C blasting on high, this car always starts and gets from point A to point B.

It's a great multi purpose vehicle. Kids love the rear facing third seat, there's tons of cargo space for trips, and I can tow trailers with it.

It's an easy car to own and drive. The gas mileage is reasonable for a 5,500 lb car - 23 MPG on the highway.

I don't think there is a new car that I can buy that can give me the ease of use, utility and ownership except for a full size SUV (Suburban Ugly Vehicle).

This car owes us nothing. I paid $500 for this car 14 years ago and it has served my family loyally ever since, and will continue until further notice.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 6th June, 2015

8th Jun 2015, 02:56

In 1984 the only American car that had a 5.7 gas engine was the Corvette.

9th Jun 2015, 06:18

Yes, it's true the Corvette was the only car from General Motors with the 5.7 gas motor as standard equipment, not counting trucks, but this Caprice was specially ordered with the 5.7 gas motor. The eighth VIN is a 6 (5.7 motor) versus an H for the 5.0 motor. And I also checked the numbers on the engine block, and it is a 5.7 liter gas motor (350 cubic inch).

In reply to 8th Jun 2015, 02:56

12th Jun 2015, 20:54

That statement is easily refuted by anyone owning a 1984 Chevrolet Impala powered by a 350/5.7L gas engine, which was available as an option, as well as owners of 1984 Ford LTD Crown Victorias, which were available with the 351 engine...

14th Jun 2015, 02:57

Interesting that it had the VIN 6 5.7.

I'm wondering if it is a Special Equipment Option vehicle e.g 9C1, 9C6 Police/Taxi package. If you check the Service Parts Identification Label, it would let you know for sure.

1984 Chevrolet Caprice Classic Wagon 305

Summary:

It's an awesome car

Faults:

The car need a wheel cylinder, front flex line, and an idler arm for safety, and in the last 2 years, I replaced a starter and brake switch.

General Comments:

The car is quick for the size of it and its motor displacement, and it can smoke the one tire off all day long.

The interior is mint; the kids love riding in the rumble seat.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th March, 2013

19th Mar 2013, 15:35

Awesome is an understatement. These cars are the best!

Best ride comfort, reliability, and luxury for the price.

The 305 will last forever, even with poor maintenance. I have seen these reach over 400k without a rebuild.

Long live the box Chevy. These are increasing in value and becoming collectible, as it's one of the last GM full size, rear wheel drive V8 sedans.

I currently own a Crown Vic, which has all the same qualities, but I still prefer the Caprice for the boxy styling.

In reply to 19th Mar 2013, 15:35

24th Mar 2013, 15:01

Couldn't agree more, these were the greatest cars. I had an '82, which was my favorite, and a couple of '84s, which were nice too, all with 305s. Many of the wagons had 307s, and I also had several Delta 88s with this motor - it will also go into the hundreds of thousands of miles without any problems.