1990 CHEVROLET CAPRICE WAGON
ENGINE 5002CC/V8/OHV POWER 170bhp@4000rpm TORQUE 250lb ft@2400rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 118mph 0-60MPH 11.1sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 20-25mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed auto MOT February 2022 ODOMETER 204,167km
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The big Chevy fires up immediately and settles to a smooth idle with plenty of charge showing on the ammeter and the oil pressure light extinguishing immediately. This Caprice had been a daily driver before being taken in as a part-exchange and that period of regular use and care shines through as you move the column shifter into ‘D’ without a jolt and a touch of ‘gas’ moves us away without fuss. The power steering isn’t over-light and there’s hardly any play, which makes for an easy drive. Indeed the bonnet’s sharp edges make the car very easy to place on the road, despite being LHD. The ride is quiet, silky smooth and free from rattles, knocks or squeaks. The body is welldamped and controlled and the brakes pull up strongly with no pulling or judder.
BODYWORK CHECK
The paint is in generally good shape, needing only a little fettling here and there. Brightwork is good and the aftermarket chrome wheels just need some cleaner and elbow-grease to get them sparkling again. Add a touch-in near the driver’s door mirror and we’d also re-finish the thin rear bumper filler panel and the off-side corner of the front bumper. And while the spray gun is out we’d blow in the scuff on the nearside rear wing.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
It’s a pleasant place to be with the three rows of seats finished in good-condition grey velour and a fresh rather than damp smell. The dash top isn’t cracked and while the stereo is an aftermarket Sony the good carpets are protected by genuine GM overmats. One button top is missing from an electric window switch and while the buttoned headlining looks fine it’s probably a creative solution to sagging.
UNDER THE BONNET
This V8’s engine bay has been cared for without making it a showpiece. Oil is to the correct level and the underside of the filler cap is clean. The transmission fluid is clean and to level as is the coolant. There’s some surface corrosion but the important bits – hoses, belts, wiring and so on – are all in good condition and a day with some cleaner and rags would soon lift the dust and have everything looking sparkly again. Receipts for suspension and brake components point to this daily driver having enjoyed recent good maintenance.
THE CCW VIEW
If you’re unsure about owning an American classic then prepare to have your misconceptions challenged. The best way to describe this Chevy is a really ‘friendly’ ride. Built for a nation that won’t easily accept a lot of fuss from a car, the Caprice demands little from the driver despite offering lots. The fact that the car has received regular use and maintenance until very recently is reassuring, too. Richard Mccann
PROS A lot of cherished car for the money CONS Some paint needed, minor interior niggles