1981 Chevrolet Caprice Classic review from North America
"Inexpensive comfort, reliability, and power"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Transmission replaced due to previous driver misuse.
350 diesel replaced due to previous driver misuse.
Starter replaced for added reliability, but it was an unnecessary replacement.
Entire braking system replaced, brakes went out at 190,000 miles.
Diesel fan clutch went out at 192,000 miles.
Tail pipe fell off on a bump.
Various storage and care related problems such as a cracked dash.
General comments?
This car is a boat, but with the 350 in it, it has quite a bit of power. Very good acceleration, probably due to the huge amount of torque (~330lbs/ft with the Olds) and the rear drive configuration.
Incredible room, it's very comfortable. Seats anywhere from four to ten.
Classic trim package makes the car look very nice, honestly. A lot of tasteful chrome and beautiful wheels make the rather bland base body style look like a completely different car.
This car is a lot of fun to drive, with sunroof and a good size v8. This car would be great for any high schooler who wants inexpensive power coupled with a fun cruising car.
Car makes me want to just take it slow and cruise around at 25, all the while knowing that if a V6 Mustang/Firebird/Camaro comes up next to me at a stop light, I've got him beat.
Recommended reviews
| A great car that'll get things done |
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| 1979 - Caprice Classic Landau coupe 305 cid V8 A classic... hey Chevy, why don't you make cars like this anymore? |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1981 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | Olds 350 V8 w/4 barrel Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 188000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 192000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 14th May, 2001 |