1984 Chevrolet Monte Carlo

With its 5.0-liter V-8 and macho styling cues, the 1984 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS helped give the entire Monte Carlo lineup a sporty image.

The 1984 Chevrolet Monte Carlo took over as Chevy's sole midsize rear-wheel-drive car because the Chevrolet Malibu had been scratched from Chevy's lineup.

Changes to the 1984 Chevrolet Monte Carlo were few, encompassing mostly powertrain shuffling, though front bucket seats with a required center console were added as an option.

Engine choices remained the same as before, except that the 4.3-liter V-6 diesel was dropped due to lack of interest. The 105-horsepower 5.7-liter V-8 diesel was still available, though not in California, where it couldn't pass that state's emissions standards. The base 49-state engine was Chevy's 110-horsepower 3.8-liter V-6; California cars got a similar Buick-built V-6.

A 150-horsepower 5.0-liter V-8 was optional on base versions of the 1984 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. The Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS returned with its 180-horsepower 5.0-liter. All engines came standard with a three-speed automatic transmission. A four-speed automatic was optional on all but California's Buick V-6.

It's doubtful those disappointed in the demise of the Malibu, which was offered as a sedan or wagon, would now gravitate to a two-door Monte Carlo. So something else must have prompted the 1984 Chevrolet Monte Carlo's 40-percent boost in popularity.

A good part of that "something else" was performance, indicating that quick, good-looking coupes could still attract buyers.

1984 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Facts

The 1984 Monte Carlo SS helped fuel a dramatic rise in Monte Carlo sales.

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