1980 Chevrolet Impala and Caprice Classic

The 1980 Chevrolet Caprice Classic and Impala were best served by the optional 305-cubic-inch V-8.

The 1980 Chevrolet Impala and Caprice received their first facelift since being completely redesigned and "downsized" for 1977. Differences, however, were subtle: The hood and front fenders were lowered slightly and given a more rounded contour, while the coupe's wraparound rear window gave way to a flat rear window fixed to more upright roof pillars.

Buyers were offered a choice of V-6 or V-8 engines. Replacing the old 250-cubic-inch inline six as the base powerplant was a new 229-cubic-inch V-6 rated at the same 115 horsepower, though California buyers got a Buick-built 231-cubic-inch V-6 with 110. V-8 options included a 267-cubic-inch unit packing 120 horsepower and a 155-horse 305.

Wagons came standard with the smaller V-8, while the 305 and a 105-horsepower Oldsmobile 350 diesel V-8 were optional. The standard, and only, transmission was a three-speed automatic.

Full-size Chevys continued their two-tier lineup. Impala carried on as the base-trim model, while Caprice Classic designated the ritzy variant. Four-doors far outsold two-doors and wagons, and Caprices generally outsold Impalas.

The fuel crisis of '79 put a dent in all big-car sales, and the Impala and Caprice were no exception. Furthermore, the new Citation may have skimmed off some more potential buyers, and the result was a dismal year for the big Chevys: From over half-a-million sales in 1979, volume dropped to less than half that number in 1980. The Impala and Caprice would never regain their former popularity.

Chevrolet ditched the wraparound rear window for the 1980 Caprice Classic.

1980 Chevrolet Impala and Caprice Classic Facts

Model	Weight range (lbs.)	Price range (new)	Number built
Impala	3,344-3,924	$6,535-$7,186	99,527
Caprice	3,376-3,962	$6,946-$7,536	137,288
Sport Coupe	3,104-3,219	6,524-6,604	116,580
Landau Coupe	not available	6,772-6,852	32,262

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