Photo: eBay seller David and Bonnie's Emporium
In 1965, Chevrolet set a remarkable record, selling more than 1 million units of the Impala that year, becoming the first automobile in the United States to reach that milestone since World War II.
Strong sales continued the following year, but the GM brand also had another trick up its sleeve to keep full-size demand strong. The Caprice, previously offered as a member of the Impala lineup, was now a series in its own right, and boy, what a great car it was.
The Caprice quickly became a darling, even if it didn’t necessarily sell in huge numbers. Some 181,000 units rolled off the assembly line in 1966, before falling to 124,500 a year later.
The Caprice could be powered by the same engines as other full-size cars in the Chevrolet lineup, including the 283, 327, 396 and the very powerful 390-horsepower 427.
The Caprice in these photos has spent its entire life in Southern California, and since it is a desert car, rust has not turned it into a pile of useless metal. The owner says on eBay that he last started this car 30 years ago and that it has sat since. The Impala is powered by a 327ci four-cylinder engine and its condition is currently unclear, especially since it has spent the last three decades in storage.
eBay seller David and Bonnie's Emporium says the car is unrestored and unmodified, so it's a time capsule looking for a second chance at completely original condition. As I said, rust isn't a big deal, so the floors and trunk are “in great condition” – I still think it's essential to put this car on a lift and check the underside if you're planning a full restoration.
The body isn't straight and you'll have to deal with a few dents and dings, but I love the patina. The interior will require more attention, as the seats are worn, and I doubt you'd be able to use much of the cabin for a full restoration. You may have to replace most of the interior, but that's why a do-it-yourself or third-party restoration is recommended.
The asking price is a bit high for a 1966 Caprice project, especially considering the uncertainty under the hood, so despite the starting bid set at $7,700, no one entered the race to take home this car. Those who want to secure the Caprice without a fight can activate the Buy It Now price and pay $8,700.
The vehicle is located in Palm Desert, California and you will need transportation to get it home considering it is a project and the engine has not run in three decades, but contact the seller to discuss full details.