1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 (SS) review from North America

Alternator went out at 50,000 miles.

Tires and brakes were replaced at 60,000 miles.

Other than that, the car has been flawless.

I got my 1999 Chevy Monte Carlo Z34 as a replacement for my aging 1980 Monte Carlo in 2001. I purchased it used from a local dealership for $15,000 with 38k miles. This has been the better of the 2 cars I have owned, problem free for over 26,000 miles and loving it! The Monte has a 200Hp V6, which provides impressive power and speed for a coupe that's the size of your average family 4-door. It's a quick and agile car for its size.

Other people have touched on the safety aspect of the car, and I can attest to that. I was rear-ended by a Suburban which caused the whole rear end to crumple. I couldn't believe the damage was as bad is it was, because I could barely feel the full force of the impact from the drivers seat. I thought the car would have been totaled seeing as there was $3500 worth of damage, but the car was repaired and you couldn't even tell it was hit.

The car is comfortable, even for large people who have difficulty finding their "spot" in a smaller car. The stereo system is excellent. All of the controls are easily within reach and driving is a pleasure.

For all of you shade tree mechanics, the Monte Carlo offers ease of access, a decent after-market, and inexpensive repairs (brake rotors for all 4 corners are less than $150 total).

Overall I'm impressed with this car - the build quality and reliability is excellent. Aside from the alternator, the car keeps on ticking. As long as the fluids are changed regularly, I expect to hit at least 150k miles before I retire my car for another (Monte Carlo?) in the years to come.