The exterior look for the final-generation Chevrolet Monte Carlo was evolutionary as opposed to revolutionary, but it worked: The car sold over 400,000 units across eight model years. One advertisement said that the appearance was “Aerodynamically designed to stop your eye.” The Pick of the Day, a 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS, is a like-new example listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Arlington, Texas.
“Rarely does a vehicle like this come along,” the listing begins. “This Monte Carlo SS has an astonishing 5,261 original miles, making it an exceptional example of an iconic American coupe.”
First launching for the 1970 model year, the Monte Carlo personal-luxury coupe evolved through six generations. For its last hurrah, from 2000-07, the car had a shape that was drawn under the direction of General Motors Vice President of Design Wayne Cherry.
Incidentally, Wayne Cherry’s impact on GM cars of the era was extensive, and it spanned much more than just the Monte Carlo. He also had his hand in crafting the Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Silverado, Pontiac Solstice, and Cadillac Escalade of the period before his retirement in 2004.
Exterior features of this primo Monte include fog lamps, black mirror caps, body side moldings, SS badging, decklid spoiler, and five-spoke, 16-inch aluminum wheels wrapped in Goodyear tires.
Interior features include charcoal leather upholstery, heated front seats, power steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel, stereo system, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, rear window defogger, illuminated visors, and tinted power windows.
Under the hood is a “3800 Series II” (a derivative of the legendary 3.8-liter 3800 V-6 from some prior GM cars) that was rated at 200 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. A four-speed automatic transaxle sends power to the front wheels. As added bonuses, SS-equipped Monte Carlos came standard with a sport touring suspension and stainless steel dual exhaust system.
Total production for the sixth-gen Monte Carlo came out to 422,895 units, with volume peaking in 2004 and diminishing each year through 2007. The Monte Carlo’s demise was linked to an overall industry shift away from coupes in general, as well as GM’s upcoming focus on a revival of the Chevrolet Camaro.
Today, surviving Monte Carlo SS variants — in particular, those with exceptionally low miles — hold strong collector appeal. “For the collector, enthusiast, or anyone who appreciates something you simply don’t see every day, this Monte Carlo SS deserves a place in your garage,” the listing concludes.
If you’ve ever wanted to own a showroom-fresh example of one of GM’s most beloved personal luxury coupes, your ticket to ride will cost $24,844.
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com
