3rd vs 4th gen Monte Carlo

[chevyforce]

New to the boards from CT. Not new to the chevy scene though. I currently drive an 87 silverado shortbed lowered 4/6. I always wanted a monte carlo and I am really stuck between the 78-80 and the 81-88.

My plans are a semi-daily cruiser, with a mildly or even close to stock sbc. Dropped a few inches all around and I like my cars/trucks to handle so whatever I get I plan on aftermarket sway bars, drop spindles, etc etc.

I like both body styles but it seems most of the 81-88 montes came with the overdrive transmission which would be a must for me. Not sure if the 78-80 came with them or if they are easily swapped?

Which seem to be better built all around? Probably can't go wrong with either but I'd like some opinions.

 

[Tony_SS]

Welcome. Both are good and both parts will interchange... more options for the 81-88 though. It really comes down to personal preference, or what kind of deal you come across..

 

[-83MONTESS-]

I had this same problem before i bought my 83 SS. I love the 78-79 montes, not the 80 as much. IMO the 83-88 monte SS`s are the best looking of the bunch and im very happy with the decision i made. I guess it would depend on the deal and what work needs done bt you cant go wrong with the 4th gen montes in my opinion.

 

[Jared Richey]

Parts availability like the more hard to find stuff especially body parts for a 78-80 is gettting scarce its seem. Pretty much everything is made repro for the 81-88.

Tony, that is the BEST LOOKING 3rd Gen Monte I've ever seen. Very well done!

Good luck on your seach.

 

[Mike P]

If you’re in an area that requires emissions testing the 78 (not sure about 79/80) might be a better choice as they are NOT computer controlled and a 350 was an available engine. An OD transmission swap is a fairly easy project (some fabrication required). The hood line on the 78-80 is also a plus as it allows for a taller intake/air cleaner.

Almost all the mechanical/electrical interchanges between the 2 generations…… the exceptions that come to mind are the cruise control (earlier style that does not require the VSS thru the computer) and windshield wipers (dash mounted switch instead of being mounted in the turn signal handle).

The body style is pretty much a matter of preference (mine being the 78-79….but that’s me).

 

[Tony_SS]

Thanks Jared.. that's a nice 1st gen too.

Another thing to consider.. 3rd gens are a LOT lighter.. around 3100lbs vs 3600 I think?

 

[-83MONTESS-]

Sorry to get off topic but the weight in a 4th gen is 3200-3400 lbs. My buddy and i had this discussion earlier and we looked it up. Nice cars guys i love the first gen considering i havent seen one of them around here for awhile!!!

 

[chevyforce]

Thanks for the information everyone! Very nice rides here