2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LT 3.8 Liter V6 (3.8 series II) from North America
Summary:
The Monte Carlo is a reliable daily driver with some get up and go, and looks that turns heads
Faults:
Speedometer broke at 61000 miles.
A/C controls had to be replaced at 83000 miles.
General Comments:
I have the 2005 LT with the 3.8 liter V6. The LT comes with the GM Performance Parts front and rear sway bars, as does the SS. The SS also received different shocks, and 17" rims, as well as an Eaton M90 supercharger, which bumped the horsepower numbers up from 210 to 250.
The 3.8 has some pretty good get up and go, but it is lacking through 2nd gear, and has considerable lag at 40 mph with the throttle wide open. The car is not built for running stoplight to stoplight, but is at home on the highway. It is easy to overtake cars on the highway, and the car feels perfectly stable, all the way up to its electronically limited top speed of 125 mph. The traction control system is overly aggressive, but can be disabled at the push of a button.
Handling is acceptable, though it will understeer, as is expected from a heavy front drive coupe, though it is still manageable, and fun on twisty roads.
The trunk is cavernous; it can easily fit 12 bags of groceries, or if you fold the rear seat down, a 26" men's bike.
The interior surfaces are below average in some places, but pretty acceptable all around. The steering wheel radio controls do wear quickly, but everything else seems solid, save the odd gap here and there, and the loose center console lid. The leather seats are amazingly comfortable, probably the best I've ever sat it.
The rear seat is large, and can fit full grown adults comfortably, and even has a center console that folds down from the center of the seat. Entry to the rear seat is a bit tricky, as there isn't much space to pass between the front seat and the B pillar.
All things considered, I really do like my Monte Carlo. It has fantastic looks, has plenty of after market support for performance enthusiasts, and most parts are interchangeable with the Chevrolet Impala.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 22nd June, 2010
16th Nov 2008, 02:25
HA ha...! Your comments really made me laugh. I can laugh because I have had similar experiences with cars myself. (I am 6'4" and have almost knocked myself out in our newer modern low-roof designs). Older cars were so much better. Just be thankful it looks cool, you can get parts for it, and it is not an import.