1989 Chevrolet Caprice Estate Wagon 5.0 Litre / 307 Olds

Summary:

A stalwart road companion beyond compare

Faults:

The valve cover started to blow oil shortly after I purchased the car. I replaced the gasket.

I had to replace the gas tank, and later, the fuel gauge.

The cruise control stopped working.

Windshield wiper motor conked out, and the new one I've installed is already acting up.

Other than that, just regular maintenance.

General Comments:

The best car I have ever owned.

She is a strong, reliable workhorse, and yet very comfortable to drive. (I've had passengers say it's like relaxing in a living room while going down a highway!)

Perhaps I shouldn't even start in on how versatile this car is. No mini-van can compare: I can fit full-size flats of plywood in the back (with the rear seat down) ; I've slept two people very comfortably (the same way) ; it also easily seats 6 people.

Handling and performance is what you might expect. It's a big, big car, with a big heart. If what you want is performance and handling, get something else.

This car has been remarkably inexpensive to own and maintain. Yes she sucks up gas, but not as badly as you might think, and parts are dirt cheap, even new.

My girlfriend and I recently purchased a BMW, which we both enjoy thoroughly. Meantime, I've had a friend doing some work on my wagon, giving it a body/engine overhaul. If my girlfriend thinks I'm going to sell my Caprice now, she's got another think coming! I can't imagine life without my sweet old "Sled."

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd November, 2001

20th May 2002, 21:07

I agree with everything that you have said about this car. I own an identical Estate Wagon and just about everything you said matches up from the oil blowing out to the riding in a living room. I have had 9 people in the car at one time, 6 adults and 3 kids. This baby was built to take on road trips. My wagon is also under repair for the 307 took a dive at 204k miles. I love my wagon and I will never part with it.