Learn more about the highly successful, second gen Monte Carlo!
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@neilouellette30045 ай бұрын
These first gen Monte Carlos were bullet proof. We had these cars back in 70's high school days and beat the snarts out of them. We were teens! They never broke down "never" and were so easy to tune up. Same goes for Impala's-Caprice's and the Malibu's of the early to mid 70's era.
@goodbonezz12895 ай бұрын
Yep 😊
@robertkeeney38985 ай бұрын
My brother had a 74 for four years while he was in college. It never let him down.
@andyhamilton89405 ай бұрын
This is a second gen. First was 70-72 I think.
@mzaccagnini71795 ай бұрын
That's because they were built right!😊
@Jack_Stafford5 ай бұрын
It seems like half of my friends had these cool "old" 70s personal luxury coupes that their parents gave up in the 80s for smaller more fuel efficient imports... Which means the kids got big comfortable cars but it also kept us under control because gas was so expensive and they got horrible gas mileage, it limited our driving and how far away from home we could get. So often we cruised to a mall parking lot or dead end road and shut them off because we couldn't afford to drive to any place else LOL. It seems like half of the people had Monte Carlos, Cutlass Supremes, Chevelles, Malibu coupes, Thunderbirds, Cougars etc, which had been their dad's "nice" car in the 70s that got handed down. Unfortunately my practical parents always had a four-door and I inherited a Mercury Montego MX Brougham, which wasn't nearly as cool as the Torino it was based on, and never felt nearly as cool as the big coupes with two doors that were focused more towards young singles than my family car boat with Lincoln trim on a midsized Ford derived car lol
@Sicklajoie5 ай бұрын
I like the 73-75 Montes much more with the round headlights than the last 2 years of this generation with the rectangular ones.
@bobpierce1155 ай бұрын
Agree completely!!! The '73-'75 Montes with the round headlights were a lot more beautiful just for that reason alone. Adam felt the '74 back end wasn't as nice due to the bumpers. To me that didn't take away anything. It (and the '75) had a slightly longer look which added to the sleekness. Very much of a sexy "Rolls Royce" for the average guy to buy and enjoy. As far as the '76-'77 Montes go, they were entering their 4th and 5th model years and so they felt a new look somewhere on the car was needed, so they gave the Monte the ugly Chevelle stacked headlights. I basically hated the Chevelle's looks period starting with the '73 anyway. It did not make the attractive transition to the Colonnade style (at all) the way the Monte did. This was true for the ugly Pontiac LeMans staring in '73 also, vs. the beautiful Grand Prix. I liked the GP front end of the '73-'76, but not the 'separated '77 headlights.
@geraldscott43025 ай бұрын
Also agree 100%. No sooner than car manufacturers get something right than they turn around and mess it up.
@ericbitzer52475 ай бұрын
I had a midnight blue 75 with a white vinyl roof. Had a rebuilt engine 350 out of a 71 Monte Carlo. You're right, the square headlights ruined the looks of that generation.
@pcno28325 ай бұрын
The rectangular headlights looked good on rectangular cars like the '76 Seville and most of the downsized '77s and '78s, but the '76-'77 A-bodies were just a mess, trying to graft squared on details on cars that were still pretty bulbous overall. The quad rectangular headlights on the '76 B and C cars worked a lot better, usually appearing to be part of a wrap-around stripe that included the parking and cornering lights. I guess they had more space to work with on those cars.
@youtubecarspottersguide15 ай бұрын
same here , liked the bucket seat opt
@Thomas63r25 ай бұрын
I remember one of my dad's friends showing up at our house to show off one of the first '73 Monte Carlos sold in our local area - I thought it was one of the most beautiful car designs I had ever seen, especially the sculpted flowing sides.
@ivorwm22915 ай бұрын
I loved the 73 Monte Carlo. It was so beautiful. Great car
@richardmorris70635 ай бұрын
I put it ahead of the early Eldorado but just behind the 67 Riviera for style. But they were all nice.
@wurker14665 ай бұрын
The blue 73 base model was my first car. Bought it used in 1980 for $750. It would seem to float at 120 MPH. Great car and great to see it again. Thanks!
@user-ph3rb1in6e5 ай бұрын
I had a buckskin 77 Monte with rally wheels, power windows & Locks, swivel buckets, tilt wheel, cruise, rear window defogger and other extras. Bought it at the end of 77 it had been one of the dealer manager's cars ordered fully loaded.
@dannyg65925 ай бұрын
My neighbor had a '73 Monte Carlo, triple white, 454, swivel buckets, fully loaded. It was stunning and rode and drove beautifully. He was very kind and let me drive it once, even though I was too young for a learner's permit. Thanks for the memories!
@bobt57785 ай бұрын
13:32 That's like the one I bought used in 1977. 454 (with a Holley dual feed I think) that got 10 mpg. Gas prices had doubled during the previous 5 years from 36 cents to 62 cents, so it hurt at the time.
@jamesbrewer-lk8te5 ай бұрын
My neighbor had the 73 black on black version. Beautiful Automobile. I was to young to drive it too.
@tonyahreames98005 ай бұрын
We had a maroon 74 with the swivel bucket seats. Many a road trip was spent in that beast!
@rayinpau.s.a.63515 ай бұрын
Every year of the Monte Carlo was very well designed . Classic with Style and Power .
@TiborRoussou5 ай бұрын
I miss my 81 Monte.
@stevegordon52435 ай бұрын
I miss my 79 Monte@@TiborRoussou
@TiborRoussou5 ай бұрын
@@stevegordon5243 or my 71 Cutlass, or my 71 Duster or for that matter, my 69 Mustang.
@stevegordon52435 ай бұрын
I have a few others also but my Monte was my favorite@@TiborRoussou
@TiborRoussou5 ай бұрын
"most comfortable ride" @@stevegordon5243
@hughjass10445 ай бұрын
A friend had a '73 back in school days. Buckets, console and a 454. Helluva fun car for cruising...... when we could afford to keep gas in it!
@williamrodriguez75515 ай бұрын
I always liked and wanted a Chevy Monte Carlo I still would Love to have one Beautiful Car A Classic
@frankthetank93465 ай бұрын
Great Video. I always wanted a 2nd generation Monte but could not find one in really good condition, here in Germany. So I ended up lucky with a pretty close 75 Buick (Century) Regal in great condition with zero rust. A gorgeogus car too... but in fact, deep inside, I am still dreaming of a Monte Carlo.
@johnh25145 ай бұрын
My favorite generation Monte! I especially like the ‘73 model before the 5mph rear bumper regulations took effect. Thanks for another winning video Adam!
@kurtisstutzman70565 ай бұрын
A neighbor around the corner, she's a widow now, has a 1970 Monte Carlo with its original 454cid/th400 with only around 60,000 miles on it...! She will not sell it...!!! It just sits in her garage and hasn't moved outta the driveway in at least ten years and hasn't come outta the garage in the last four years...! She had been backing it down her driveway once a week, but that stopped during covid... She has no living children, so who knows what will happen to it when she passes, but someone will get a mint condition Monte Carlo...!!! Thanks for sharing... Keep up your awesomeness...
@richardmorris70635 ай бұрын
What a waste for a car like that to sit around & basically get old. If she had a family mechanic to drive it 20 miles per week & do oil changes it'd be a much better car. But its hers!
@kurtisstutzman70565 ай бұрын
@@richardmorris7063 Yep, reminds her of her husband... she never even drove it until after he passed away...!!! But yeah, I agree...!
@mraudio5 ай бұрын
It kills me to read stories like this...
@krulux5 ай бұрын
My first car was a 1973 Monte Carlo... was dark red with matching vinyl roof and still remains one of the smoothest riding cars I've owned... and was fast for its time with 350 4-bbl... loved it!
@ChitownRon5 ай бұрын
One of the hottest interiors when you’re comparing Grand Prix and Montecarlo was the Grand Prix with that wraparound - consul
@gieb64285 ай бұрын
I bought the GP
@robertklein13165 ай бұрын
My 69 GP SJ was a honey, but they sure like to suck fuel, but they were kind of a slug for 400 ci., get it rollin and your riding on air. Paid new a little over $4K.
@Jackasama5 ай бұрын
had a 76 in oxblood red with a red vinyl interior and a white landau top - 350/4bbl and it ran and drove like a cadillac - loved that car , body on frame cars ride like a dream
@joshuagibson25205 ай бұрын
Monte, Cutlass, I liked them all.
@MasterMalrubius5 ай бұрын
Monte Carlo or Grand Prix?
@joshuagibson25205 ай бұрын
@@MasterMalrubius yes.
@JT-sl3ui5 ай бұрын
Monte Carlo Cutlass Regal Grand Prix
@randyfitz83105 ай бұрын
Better than the Thunderbird of the time and years prior to Cordoba!
@17kcotsdoow865 ай бұрын
My favorite car I've owned was a '73 GranPrix, back in '90. Wish I still had it now😥
@starkparker165 ай бұрын
I had a 73 Monte that I painted flat black and devyniled. A great cruiser and super stylish. I loved the swivel seats.
@Mustang16835 ай бұрын
My mother had this exact car. She went to work for the first time as a secretary in 1973. At the time she had a 1972 Chrysler Newport that my father had bought her and she hated it. It was baby poop green. So, after she had been at work for about a year, on the way home from work one day she stopped at a Chevrolet dealer and bought this car used with cash she had saved up. She left the 72 Chrysler at the dealership and told my dad when she got home with the new-to-her car that he could go and pick up the old car and do whatever he wanted with it because she was done with it and this Monte Carlo was now her car. I thought my dad was going to have a stroke. But he went and picked up the car and she kept that Monte Carlo for the next five years.
@nickmatoic90965 ай бұрын
Good for mom
@Glasscitycarnerd5 ай бұрын
My dad got a new 1973 Monte Carlo when I was three. I remember how beautiful it looked. I still think that. As for the 78, it was the right car, but they got it right for 1981.
@jamesweddle1845 ай бұрын
454, check. Rally wheels, check. I'll take mine with a console w/floor shifter, swivel buckets, and full instrumentation. 1973 Monte Carlo perfection
@youtubecarspottersguide15 ай бұрын
73-74 the best ones ,yes 81 was a good refresh , the 78-80 bumper, rub strips fell off in a few yrs.saw them when new and quality wasn't that great , opened drivers door and could hear it rub against the fender, large dasd pad ,what will it look like after sitting in the Arizona sun for 5 yrs? ,my aunt had a carport but she always covered up the dash , cloth int rear seat top to protect it from the sun and #1 always cover the metal seat belt buckles
@AlexanderCrump5 ай бұрын
Agreed. I did not like the downsized '78s. They looked out of proportion and too small. The '81 re-skin really fixed that, and somehow the proportions were once again right on.
@user-eg6xe5nz8v5 ай бұрын
My dream car was a 1976 Monte Carlo and my parents Bought one. I loved that car more than anything. Had it for ten years.
@user-ou8jl6zp2k5 ай бұрын
I liked the 73 Monte Carlo since it’s introduction, lovely design and beautiful styling.😊😊❤
@leonardpoindexter52895 ай бұрын
Really like the way you present the development of these vehicles.
@palmermccall73095 ай бұрын
Great point around 8:50 about the Eldo/Monte Carlo release, vs. the '85/'86 Somerset/Skylark/Riviera debacle. Another good example would be how the Chrysler LeBaron coupe and convertible hit the market before the "TC by Maserati". In general everyone thought the more expensive car was just another LeBaron, but if I remember, it was nearly twice the price!
@teddymullins37065 ай бұрын
I used to own The 72Monte Carlo It was a big block car with a turbo 400And also owned77 It Had a 350 in it I really love these carsThey had a wonderful ride.
@yortomatic5 ай бұрын
In 1990, I bought a '73 Monte Carlo with a swapped 307 4bbl for a college mechanics class, and we as a class rebuilt the engine. Come to find out through GM service manuals, the 307 churns out 300hp with the 4bbl manifold and carb. We finished with a premium highway car which zoomed the highways with ease and joy, and it looked damn good doing it.
@hailstorm19865 ай бұрын
GM knocked it out of the park with these Monte Carlos. Absolutely beautiful lines with great performance and luxury appointed interiors.😇
@LakeNipissing5 ай бұрын
I recall riding in the back seat of one of these in the 1970s, with my friend and his little sister. It was their dad's car (their mom had a Pinto). I recall the rear window had a sharp crease in the center, and the front bucket seats *_swiveled._* That is the first and last car I ever saw with swivel front seats. Not sure if it was 1973, 1974 or 1975, but the taillights did look like that, so it might have been a 1973.
@tombrown18985 ай бұрын
Nice cars, remember them well. My favorite Monte, though, is the original 1970 car, black with no vinyl top, with the slightly peaked wheel covers.
@fredrickbeagle86075 ай бұрын
I had a green on green 73 Monte Carlo with the 350 and I loved that car 😊 It handled great on twisty roads and I even drove it into sand next to a creek and it didn't get stuck like my 66 Chevrolet long bed truck did😮 I had an accident and it was totaled unfortunately 😢... I'm just glad the other person wasn't hurt getting hit by that big car😊
@janzimny19775 ай бұрын
I had one these beasts! Mine was a 1973 . 2 door 350 4 barrel carb., It floated like a luxury car and always wanted to burn rubber! Solid car car, but at that time just like the other car companies, it suffered from the dreaded rust disease! Still my favourite car!!😊
@Scrambler855 ай бұрын
My uncle bought a 1970 and a 1972 both with the 454. They were smooth and quick
@youtubecarspottersguide15 ай бұрын
70 ss 454 Monte Carlo bet it would cruise at 75 all day . Drank gas
@therealjayseh5 ай бұрын
Gas was $0.37¢ p.gal. that's 37 cents per gallon
@patrickdenisemodrell64955 ай бұрын
I had two of these 73's. I had the swivel bucket front seats. Loved these! In my opinion, the best looking of that body style.
@MrMousekillaz5 ай бұрын
Dick Balch Chevrolet supplied our school disrict drivers ed with 78 - 79 Monte Carlo's I loved driving that car so when I got a job, I bought one with bucket seats with the console and a T-Shifter. The 305 was terrible so later on I put a 350 ZZ1 Performance Parts in it with some additional handling mods!
@bertram465 ай бұрын
I remember in '72 my father bought a 72 Monte Carlo "custom" Corvette wheel covers, 4 spoke wheel 400 4bbl. Dual exhaust. Loved it. Then word on the '73 came out. Car magazines said it had a Mercedes suspension. My father ordered his.they were on back order they were so popular. Swivel buckets. Landau model. 350 4bbl with dual exhaust. Guage package. Loved the 73
@johnjacobjingleheimerschmi38575 ай бұрын
I had two '72s and a '82. Dad had a Brand New '76 Hard top with the swivel bucket seats and console. Mom had a New '77 Landau. The whole family loved them.
@randyfitz83105 ай бұрын
The 1970 - ‘72 Monte Carlo has aged so gracefully. I almost swooned at the first sight of the 1973 Monte Carlo as the body shaping echoed my favorite Silver Ghost! They also drive very well, cornering belies their size. I now drive a 1973 Eldorado by Cadillac, as they used to say it in their print advertising, and yes, you called that comparison correctly.
@yorkiepit5 ай бұрын
I've always been a big fan of the gen 1 Monte Carlo, thought the design was clean and elegant, loved the taillights.
@smellsuperb15 ай бұрын
Dude I used to work with had a '76 Monte, I had a '78 Dodge Monaco, and we were racing home from work one day from Newark airport. Suffice it to say he smoked me lol, that Monte had a rear stabilizer bar and that rear end stayed solid as I watched his taillights get smaller in front of me 🤣
@iroh10485 ай бұрын
I love the '73, especially the tail lights. When I was 16 back in '76, I had a buddy who frequently used his sister's '70 Monte with a big block. That thing would melt both back tires without brake torquing it. Good times...
@danielberning12405 ай бұрын
Love that first blue MC with the fender skirts. One of my all time favortie cars.
@larryhillstad74505 ай бұрын
I got to ride in a 73 454 Monte Carlo when I was just starting to drive. My friend and I were tasked with washing his Mom's boss' car, when we got in...whoo hoo! What a nice car! It took us 4 hours to wash...at least that's what we said...
@Pisti8465 ай бұрын
The 70-72 Monte Carlo, especially with fender skirts, was very elegant.
@philip41935 ай бұрын
Thanks Adam for putting out yet more great content on your channel; I honestly don't know where you find the time to produce so many of these informative and well-researched videos. Keep up the great work!
@stormythelowcountrykitty71475 ай бұрын
Ditto
@unclebill720d5 ай бұрын
A close friend had a 72 Monte. I liked that body stye the best back then. We were probably just out of high school and Tony would turn the air cleaner lid upside down so you coild hear the Quadrajet go "wwhhaaa" when you got on it! We took turns driving that Monte everywhere...his family owned a gas station. I didn't really care for the 73 and newer styling then but now I seem to like them much better. I've found that to be true of many things as I get older!
@stanmarcusgtv5 ай бұрын
the 1973 had much better handling than the 1972, DeLorean had the engineers take elements for the new suspension from Mercedes
@rickc3035 ай бұрын
@@stanmarcusgtvsuch as?
@youtubecarspottersguide15 ай бұрын
did the same with my moms 70 chevelle flip the air cleaner lid upside down to hear the 4 bl open up ,my dad put on dual exhaust so it had a nice rumble.
@richardmorris70635 ай бұрын
My buddy in the Marines had a 72 w/ a 402 4 bolt main cap motor. I had a Trans Am but I always had a thing for that car. He let me drive it & it had the best blend of sporty luxury ever.
@richardmorris70635 ай бұрын
Me too,71 Grand Prix w/400 4 bl. That car had legs!!
@howardfletcher72065 ай бұрын
I remember reading consumer reports used car buyer guide and marveling at the available engine options the 454 was available in 73-74 according to that source. Wow imagine a big block! This was when I was 15 or so in the mid 80s dreaming about getting my first car.
@dennisduran85005 ай бұрын
I graduated high school in 1977 . In 78 I was looking at a beautiful 1974 Monte Carlo. Man I loved that car and I could've bought it but something else caught my eye instead. 1972 Riviera GS got my money.
@arthuroconnor43004 ай бұрын
Wise choice
@imrytebeehyneu5 ай бұрын
Jesus, look at the background designs of concept cars in the 70s. 10:26 Including one at the far left that look like the next Camaro. Stunning.
@steveb73105 ай бұрын
They look like HotWheels cars.
@waynemason835 ай бұрын
Dad had a 70 when I was a kid. Then he gave me a 78 for my 18th birthday. I still have it. 78 (3rd gen) is by far my favorite generation of Monte Carlo
@richardmorris70635 ай бұрын
Isn't that the one Denzel drove in Training Days?
@jeramiebradford15 ай бұрын
It is the one in training day, and it had a very large factory sunroof option. My favorite Monte Carlo
@bobpierce1155 ай бұрын
I like the 3rd gen too. It was put in the difficult position of maintaining the fancy 2nd gen styling on a drastically smaller body, and did a great job. Personally, my favorite is the 4th starting in 1981. It had the efficient size of the 3rd gen, the back end (style) of the 2nd, and the simple styling on the 1st along the sides.
@kleverich5 ай бұрын
When I was four years old, my family went on a trip to Florida. We went to DisneyWorld and saw an Apollo launch. Not just any launch, but the Apollo 17 night launch. I remember none of this. However, I recall our rental car was a beige '73 Monte Carlo. This memory is distinct, even the shape of the taillight on the car.
@jefffixesit605 ай бұрын
Thanks for showing the design proposals, I always wondered what these cars would have looked like without the 5mph impact bumpers , aka "chrome-plated cross ties" that were mandated for '73 and later. Wonderful content on your channel as always 😁
@komradkolonel5 ай бұрын
A friend of mine's older brother had a 75 Monte Carlo when we were back in high school. He was older and working a "real" job so he had a car where we didn't yet. His just had the 350 and didn't have any fancy options on it but it was still a cool car.
@tubesurfer11005 ай бұрын
I definitely remember that. I brought my first car the summer before my 9th grade school year started. A 1974 Cutlass Supreme Salon.
@ttpwwg1wga9305 ай бұрын
My brother had a 1970 Monte, dark green, black vinal top. I wasnt old enough to drive, but made a deal with him. If I washed it, he would let me drive it around the block! Man, was i trilled!
@scottsullivan14645 ай бұрын
Please keep sharing those interviews of prior executives. I never tire of it. Nice video!
@kdksiren5 ай бұрын
Had a 76 Monte Carlo. 350 2bbl. Had the swivel bucket seats, cruise, A/C and rear defog fan behind the rear seat. Loved that car but got married and then kids. Needed a car with rear doors so traded it in for a 4 dr. Chev impala. Loved the steering on the Monte. Had the stabilizer shock on the linkage. Had to replace it a couple of times and sure made a difference. Now in my 60's and wish I had that car. Thanks Adam for posting this!!
@richardmorris70635 ай бұрын
I had the same car,red on white,bought it second hand & it had transmission issues. Beautiful car,wished I had it new!
@thebestisyettocome41145 ай бұрын
My first and only Chevrolet Monte Carlo was 1978. It was a very popular. So was Oldsmobile Cutlass.
@rightlanehog31515 ай бұрын
Adam, Your blue Monte Carlo was overdue for an appearance. 😁
@FairladyS1305 ай бұрын
As a foreigner I approve very much of these early '70's Monte Carlo's.
@SeaTravelr1232 күн бұрын
Love this... I am restoring a 74 Monte. Mom and dad had one in the 70's and I taught myself to drive on it. They were my favorite of the colonnades, followed quickly by the Grand Prix and Olds Cutlass Supreme. They seemed to be the trademark of the 70's. They ride so beautifully and I can't wait to finish mine up. This was a great video about this wonderful car.. Those original proposals were nice and sleek, but they looked a lot more like the Chevelle. I think the production model was perfect in every way. As to the 78 downsizing, Im afraid to say that I really liked all of them. They seemed to incorporate what made the identity of each car and refined them. I wasn't a fan of the pod dashes of the Monte and the Regal. I felt like they should have done what Pontiac and Olds did and incorporated the radio and vents, though it gave the illusion of a bigger space up front. The BIG disappointment on the Monte was the lack of wood, faux though it was, inlace of the all that black plastic. It was corrected in the 81 model and gave it a MUCH richer look. I was 16 in 1978, so I was looking to pick my first car... (with no job or money to back me up) so I was ogling at the car dealers that Sept.
@vwandtiny37695 ай бұрын
I had a 73 Monte, Landau, loaded, center console with Velour Captains seats that swiveled 180 degrees so the back seat would turn into a big playground. I loved that car...
@davidpasquale84985 ай бұрын
Had a last year 1977 Monte that body style with the 4 rectangler head lights,305ci engine, firethorne red exterior and red interior throughout. Bought new in 77 my first new car, I thought I made a excellent choice then ,I was 18yrs old. I still have Polaroid pictures of that car and look at them every now and then. Always liked that body style, and wish I still had it😊
@davef.23295 ай бұрын
These were an absolute pleasure to drive.
@sheehy9335 ай бұрын
I had a '73 MonteCarlo. For some reason all the 1970's Chevys I owned were the easiest starting cars. Regardless of the weather they always started on the first try and kicked down quickly and easily. They also rode very well. I had a '75 Caprice that rivaled Cadillac in smoothness and quietness.
@bdpopeye5 ай бұрын
When I was stationed in the Philippines in '75-'77 I had a shipmate that had a '73 Monte Carlo. It was tan. That car was so nice. Smooth really describes that car. When I got stationed in San Diego in October 1977 I bought a brand new 1978 Monte Carlo. I liked that car. That was the most reliable American car I ever owned. I remember some people when they first saw it thought it was a two door Seville. Well kinda sort of. Thanks for posting such great informative videos.
@lanceadcox23765 ай бұрын
My aunt had a 77 MC. Loved everything about that car. She drove it for about 12 years. Beige with brown top.
@douglasb.12035 ай бұрын
Similarities (aka copying) of the design forms by Chrysler for the Cordoba big time, although the 'doba was two years later. In late winter, 1973, Uncle John came up with his brand new Monte Carlo in green with a white landau top (matching interior) with the 350 4BBL. He let mom take us to school the following day, and it was ice cool arriving in the 'new car'. Great video. Tons of memories.
@mraudio5 ай бұрын
The Cordoba went for the "luxury" look which was blander than the Chevy (although the front end was kind of cool), but the interiors were much nicer. I remember loving the look of the Monte Carlo as I walked up to one, then being let down by how cheap the interior looked...
@douglasb.12035 ай бұрын
@mraudio the interiors were so CHEAP. In one model year, GM bean counters made Fisher Body cut costs dramatically. Chrysler always had lavish interiors with chintzy dashboards.
@mraudio5 ай бұрын
@@douglasb.1203 I thought the dashboard in the Cordoba was pretty decent, at least it had a full gauge package, unlike most Ford and GM cars at the time. But, yeah, the plastic they used in the dashes in some of their models was pretty terrible. The trucks in particular come to mind...
@douglasb.12035 ай бұрын
@mraudio the HVAC push/pull knobs were strange in the Cordoba and virtually every MOPAR. The chronometer, though? Ice cool.
@mraudio5 ай бұрын
@@douglasb.1203 Yes they were strange, and usually in a weird location. I had a Cordoba for a few years back in the day, and I never knew you could pull back on the buttons...
@2011joser5 ай бұрын
My family had a 77 Malibu Classic station wagon that shared what was essentially the same dasboard and steering wheel. These chevrolets were good looking cars but the bodies just weren’t very good. I remember the sag in the doors most of the montes had. Our Malibu’s hood creased one day when being closed because it had dry hinges. I also remember even as an eleven year old being surprised at the washers used to bolt the front fenders to the cowl.
@OLDS985 ай бұрын
Thank you Adam. This car had themes that they would carry on the Monte Carlo for years with the exception of the 1995-1999 version. They had lost their way but came back in grand style is 2000. The most popular one would have to be 1981-1987. I liked that one the best. I liked 1976-1977 with the stacked headlights too. This car has a strong heritage and history. I had issues with 1978-1979 version. Something was lost. My Aunt had one. At least they updated the front end for 1980. I enjoyed seeing the design sketches/proposals. That was interesting hearing the story as well. As far as the interior it shared its interior with Malibu and El Camino back then and well into the 1980's. Chevrolet was not the only GM brand to do that. They used what they had( economies of scale). I also recall the Turbo Monte Carlos and the SS versions and more. They tried to recapture that past glory at the end by offering a V8. The issue with the very last one was the Impala front end styling. I recall the late 80's Monte Carlo LS too. I know so many people at one time or another who had a Monte Carlo. Thank you Adam.
@mzinns5 ай бұрын
The first gen MC was a lean understated car that could be optioned with powerful engines and good handling. Essentially a up-scale muscle car.
@youtubecarspottersguide15 ай бұрын
saw one 1970 a4speed Ohio car so by 1980 was a rust bucket
@truman11585 ай бұрын
I purchased a used 1973 in 1974. The taillight treatment was absolutely beautiful. And it handled and rode beautifully. Mine was medium red metallic, 350 ci and Turbo Hydramatic.
@radsdad15 ай бұрын
I bought a 73 for 200 dollars that had very little power. I replace the cam and built that car into a winning stock car that dominated the class in 1997. Really solid car.
@dinsdaleseven16275 ай бұрын
Excellent video. I was more of a Grand Prix fan having owned 4 over the years (69-77). The inclusion of the design and factory photos along with your well informed commentary made a great presentation. My brother had a black '75 Monte Carlo. Other colonade cars I owned included a '73 442, '73 Gran Sport, '76 Le Mans Sport coupe
@youtubecarspottersguide15 ай бұрын
73-77 all nice cars liked the same cars , part of our child hood ,cool when we could ride in the front seat with dad or older brother driving . my fav is the 1973 hurst olds , 73 gto, 73 grand am , 77 can am , 73-77 do like the 1/4 windows choices . Luxury la mans could have fender skirts
@davidcarroll18835 ай бұрын
Mine was a 1976, fully loaded. 400 quadrojet. It was the perfect car. Hands down.
@joesmithjoesmith42845 ай бұрын
To me, the instrument panel with gauges and tachometer looked pretty good! I always loved how these cars drove. They rode smooth, were quiet, and handled very well. In addition to the rear sway bar, these cars had 15X7 wheels, a steering stabilizer, different alignment settings, and probably a few more things that I have forgotten. @20:40 I seem to remember the area under the outside mirror adjuster is a slot for your road maps?
@johnsullivan18315 ай бұрын
I recall distinctly-patterned tread OEM tires on this generation of Monte Carlo. Introduced circa 1973?
@kjquinn78565 ай бұрын
The instrument panel would have looked a lot better if there were gauges instead of idiot lights. The tach and full gauge complement were options, while the standard panel had only a speedometer and big mechanical fuel gauge. If I remember correctly, for the 1973 model year, GM designed the suspensions on the Cutlass/Monte Carlo/Lemans/etc. to compete with the Mercedes Benz sedans of the time. Either Motor Trend of Car & Driver did a full story comparing the handling of the GM intermediates to the Benz and concluded GM came very close to the mark with cars costing thousands less than the German sedan.
@liam93075 ай бұрын
Back in 78, my sister let me drive her Monte to senior prom. It was white on white with a mint green interior. Very luxurious and smooth ride made it a standout performer. Lots of great memories. She also had a 74 Malibu Classic, triple black. it was my favorite.
@Cadillac615 ай бұрын
The 1973 to 1977 Monte Carlo was my dream car growing up. To me,it’s one of the most beautiful cars ever made. Thanks for this video! I got my drivers license in a 1975 monte. As for Pontiac always among my favorite cars but I always hated the fact that what Chevy got……Pontiac had to get a version of it. The monte was the slap in the face that Pontiac needed as the monte outsold the Grand Prix in some cases 3 to 1. I also liked the smaller 78 and 79 montes. Thanks Adam!
@davestewart20675 ай бұрын
Well there wasn’t a 2010 Trans Am, because they killed off the Pontiac division.
@dwayneroth1005 ай бұрын
Price was a consideration as well, MC being a bit less
@jeffrobodine85795 ай бұрын
That original clay model Monte Carlo resembles a lot of Aussie Holden architecture of the era to it.
@captjohnny5 ай бұрын
I've never seen a 1973 Monte Carlo like mine that was totally white on the outside along with a maroon-red interior with a matching half-vinyl roof...thanks for sharing...it brings back great memories!
@frankthetank93465 ай бұрын
Must have been a beautiful ride you had. Have you been a first owner from back in the days ? The colour scheme you described sounds similar to my 75 Regal. Havent seen many classic cars with that scheme either.
@captjohnny5 ай бұрын
Frank...WOW!! I saw your 75 Regal and it looks almost the same as my 73 Monte Carlo, but with the entire roof in vinyl. Yes...this was one of the 1st cars out at the time....saw it and fell in love instantly...too bad they went away as nothing else today even comes close IMHO.
@pjreynoldsa15 ай бұрын
I had a 73" Monte Carlo, 454, swivel buckets, posi traction, It was beautiful....................... I sold it to pay for my family's Christmas that year (1983)
@ProctorsGamble5 ай бұрын
That first sketch looks so modern even today! It could be released as a 2025 and it would sell!
@robertray60215 ай бұрын
I have had 4 Monte Carlos. My first was a 73 Landau with swivel buckets and a moon roof. Why didn't you mention this was the first Year for the swivel seats? Thanks for a great video!
@mickeydogtubemickeydogtube68565 ай бұрын
I really appreciate seeing the artist renderings and clay mock ups contrasted against the actual design.
@jasonmaravelias66924 ай бұрын
I have to say, the pics with these red brick homes, gorgeous old homes.
@louislepage51115 ай бұрын
These cars were everywhere 😊
@jamessharp97905 ай бұрын
Grand Prix was introduced in 1962 but stayed on the Full Size Platform until 69 and yeah it was a hit. Very popular
@_Boregard_Rippy_5 ай бұрын
... my '74 Monte had swivel bucket seats and was the easiest car I ever re-sold it was so cool ..!
@peterfranke31185 ай бұрын
My friend also had a 74 with swivel seats. They were great for putting our ski boots on in the ski slope parking lot.
@_Boregard_Rippy_5 ай бұрын
... and date night ..! @@peterfranke3118
@alecfromminnenowhere20895 ай бұрын
When they stacked the rectangle headlights in 1976 that was a looker.
@jdlaurence99005 ай бұрын
I had a 76 MC... loved it. It was stolen in front of the house I lived in in 1985 .... Someone else loved it...😢 The 78 MC? one word- Barf !
@mikehenson8195 ай бұрын
Knowing now that the 73 was actually designed to be released in 71, makes me wished that it had been released in 71, without the impact bumpers. That marred the looks of the 73. But I was super excited back in the day when the 73 was released bec😢 the overs design was so compelling that you simply ignored the bumpers
@spurmarks5 ай бұрын
I had a '73 Monte, but it had really nice burgundy velour interior, much nicer than the blue one in the video.
@dave19565 ай бұрын
Loved these when they were new!
@gerardmills13895 ай бұрын
My sister's boyfriend flew for Piedmont....circa 73....Ron ordered a loaded 73 landau version.....but Gandy white "landau " top....swivel buckets....454-4 special turbine wheels.....she was a class act....a real headturner.
@semectual5 ай бұрын
My Parents had the 1973 and 1977 second generation Chevy Monte Carlos. Learning from this video, it seems that this 2nd gen Monte Carlo played a big role even as far back to 1971 making major designs for the Cadillac Eldorado! 😮😮😮😮😮
@Dangerous_Drivers_of_CA5 ай бұрын
I've always liked those cars, but I prefer the 1977..
@joshuagibson25205 ай бұрын
70s Gm A\C and power steering couldn't be topped.
@jaymax32015 ай бұрын
So pretty face and cool design. I love them!
@markbailey30123 ай бұрын
My first car...I loved it then and still love it today!
@jeffrobodine85795 ай бұрын
Remember the Custom Cloud? A Monte Carlo converted nto a Rolls Royce
@jefweb50435 ай бұрын
I'm 49yrs old; my first car was the very same '76 that my dad bought off of me and has in his garage, fully restored. . My absolute favorite is the full size white mock up! I wish the Monte's would have been released with the chrome lower cladding on the fenders, doors and qp's deleted, along with Rally wheels. To me, having the straight line chrome cladding along the bottom pulls your eyes away from the beautiful, flared lines on the '73-'77 body. Thank you for the interview!
@ericb5925 ай бұрын
Loved all these personal luxury coupes from the big 3..Love the Monte, Ford's Elite, and Chrysler's Cordoba...Those long hoods were awesome.
@bshingledecker5 ай бұрын
I had a 75 with the standard 350 2bbl. I miss that car. It was a mobile couch. very comfy. 18 mpg with the cruise set to 60 mph. The emission system caused 'run on' or dieseling after turning it off. The only problem I ever had was a radiator leak that I found before a weekend trip. It was a piece of cake to swap a radiator back then.