Produced from 1965 until 1996 by Chevrolet in North America, the Caprice sold well over a million units in its debut year, solidifying it as the most popular car in the US in the 1960s and early 1970s. It was originally introduced as a luxury trim package for the Impala four-door hardtop.

The origin of the ‘Caprice’ moniker has two differing accounts. One states that the name was coined by Bob Lund (Chevrolet’s General Sales Manager) after a classy restaurant her often frequented in New York City. Another states the car was named after Caprice Chapman, the daughter of auto executive James P. Chapman.

By the time 1969 rolled around, the Caprice and other full-sized Chevrolets were restyled with new body lines and front bumpers that wrapped around the grille, alongside ventless front windows on all models. Front seat headrests became standard due to new federal safety standards, and the ignition switch was moved from the dashboard to the steering column – it also locked the steering wheel when the key was removed, thanks to a federal mandate for the 1970 models, though introduced a year earlier on all GM cars except the Corvair.

The 1969 Caprice also offered a new GM-designed variable-ratio power steering unit as an optional upgrade. The standard engine offered was enlarged to a 5.4L (327ci) V8 with further optional engine choices including a new 5.7L (350ci) Turbo Fire V8, a 6.5L (396ci) Turbo Jet V8 and a whopping 7.0L (427ci) Turbo Jet V8. All V8 engines were available with a three-speed ‘Turbo Hydramatic’ automatic transmission, though a two-speed ‘Powerglide’ automatic transmission was still offered on the standard engine and the 5.7L upgrade.

The Chevrolet Caprice has starred in many famous movies, including but not limited to ‘Die Hard With a Vengeance (1995), ‘Groundhog Day (1993)’ and ‘Se7en (1995)’.

THE CAR

Hailing from Arizona in the United States with long-term ownership dating back to 1988, this example of a 1969 Chevrolet Caprice Coupe is in excellent condition and is a standout finished in Monza Red with a complimenting Black Vinyl roof.

The gleaming chrome trim, grille and badging look fantastic alongside the Rallye wheels with whitewall tyres to round out the exterior package.

On the inside, the combination of black vinyl, studded black cloth trim and tasteful wood-grain accents on the doors, steering wheel and dash exude style and class. The carpets, headlining and dash are all in excellent condition.

This car is extremely well optioned including electric windows, electric door locks, power steering, power brakes, cruise control, a tilt steering column and air-conditioning which has been re-gassed. All instrumentation and features work, including the radio and clock.

Rocking a 5.7L (350ci) Turbo Fire V8 engine coupled to a 3-speed ‘Turbo Hydramatic’ automatic transmission, this car has excellent power and a great exhaust note. The engine bay and trunk are well detailed.

A front disc brake conversation has been carried out, alongside new ball joints and sway bar mounts, further enhancing the driving experience. This car handles incredibly well.

Other work has been completed on the vehicle including new brake hoses and the radiator has been re-cored. A new water pump has been installed and she has been equipped with seatbelts that comply with Australian law.

An extensive receipt file dating back to 1988 is supplied with purchase. This is a very well sorted car.

Incredibly fun to drive, brimming with style and one of the most popular cars ever built by Chevrolet – an absolute classic.

On historic registration in SA.