Water pump blew at 110,000 miles. Replaced it myself for $30.
Radiator showed signs of wear at 112,000 miles. Replaced it hoping to prevent a breakdown. Ratiator cost me $100.
This car rides like the Cadillacs of old. The rear-wheel drive format, long wheelbase, and wide car make for a ride unmatched by any Lexus or Mercedes today.
This car redefines the term "roomy". There is more room in this car than you could ever use. Inch-for-inch, this wagon is longer than a suburban of the same model year.
The handling of this monolithic wagon is better than one would expect. It feels a bit loose, but it is responsive.
The Caprice's performance is severely lacking. The 305 just cannot put out enough power to move this car. Acceleration is OK around town, but severly lacking at highway speeds. You will often find that even with the pedal on the floor you can barely accelerate up hills. Forget passing with this car, you will need a long stretch of road and plenty of time. My 1983 Delta 88 (307 V8) blows this away on the highway. For a big V8, this car should have more power than it does. Its slower than your everyday 4-banger escort or neon.
I believe they offered an LT1 (350ci) the following year, at least in the wagons which helped with power.
LT-1 not offered in Caprice until the 1994 model year.