If you’re starting a classic car collection or want to expand your existing one, then investing in old Chevy cars is a no-brainer. They’re a great investment and the epitome of style, class, and performance. But which ones are the best?
Here’s a detailed look at the fascinating history of classic Chevy cars to help you make the right decision for yourself.
1950s Icons
The 1950s: A time of post-World War II prosperity and an era that saw the birth of some of the most iconic Chevy models, including the following:
Chevy Bel Air
There was something undeniably special about the Chevy Bel Air. With its pioneering hardtop design in the early 50s, the Chevy Bel Air merged the novelty of the convertible with the practicality and comfort of a coupe, which (to no surprise) attracted a wide audience.
- Year of Release: 1950
- Average Selling Price (Today): $30,460
- Top Speed: 90 mph
- Standout Features
- 2 Door Hardtop
- Classic Design
- V8 Engine
- Power Brakes
- Power Steering
The Corvette
In a world dominated by sedans and trucks, the first-generation Corvette, also known as the Corvette Stingray, was a breath of fresh air.
The Corvette’s unique fiberglass body forged a new direction in the American automotive market, setting the design stage for future sports cars.
- Year of Release: 1953
- Average Selling Price (Today): $111,236
- Top Speed: 142 mph
- Standout Features
- Luxurious interior
- Blue Flame engine
Chevy Nomad: The Stylish Station Wagon
The Chevy Nomad station wagon was a favorite of the 50s. It was made with washable vinyl and rubber for easy maintenance and durability, distinguishing it from other wagons of its era and making it a practical choice for families on the go.
Today, it’s a fan-favorite among enthusiasts, thanks to its rarity. Only 16,590 two-door models were produced, making these particular vehicles a particularly rare find.
- Year of Release: 1955
- Average Selling Price (Today): $96,944
- Top Speed: 91 mph
- Standout Features
- 2 Engine Options
- 2 and 4 Door Versions
1960s Legends
As the 1950s gave way to the 60s, the automotive scene started to rev up with the roar of muscle cars. Chevy was at the forefront of this revolution with the introduction of iconic models like the Camaro, Chevelle, and Nova. With their powerful engines, these beasts dominated drag strips and racetracks, marking the golden age of Chevy muscle cars.
Chevy Camaro
To keep up with the bubbling competition of the Ford Mustang, Chevy introduced the Camaro—a new breed of muscle car. Back then, Chevy offered multiple engine options in addition to the rear-drive drive and front-engine layout.
- Year of Release: 1967
- Average Selling Price (Today): $74,599
- Top Speed: 135 mph
- Standout Feature:
- High-performance engine
The Chevelle
The Chevelle was made to bridge the gap between the compact Impala and the smaller Nova, marking the advent of an iconic mid-size muscle car era for Chevy. Fun fact: the 1965 Chevelle Malibu SS 396 Z16 was the rarest muscle car produced by Chevrolet, with only 200 in total.
- Year of Release: 1964
- Average Selling Price (Today): $60,719
- Top Speed: 103 mph
- Standout Features
- 4 Body Styles Available
- 2 Engine Options
The Chevy II / Nova
The Chevy Nova started as a simple, compact car. Upon its release, it was seen as a simplified, no-frills alternative to the Corvair.
- Year of Release: 1962
- Average Selling Price (Today): $47,667
- Top Speed: 104 mph
- Standout Features
- Compact Size
- 3 Trim Options
- 2 Body Style Options
- 2 Engine Options
1970s to 1980s
The 1970s and 1980s posed new challenges for the automotive industry. The oil crisis and stricter emission standards called for a shift towards fuel efficiency. Chevy rose to the challenge, introducing models like the Monte Carlo and Caprice.
The Monte Carlo
The Chevrolet Monte Carlo of the 1970s and 80s was a personal luxury car that offered a comfortable ride coupled with a stylish design. The Monte Carlo’s luxurious appeal was showcased through its Landau trim, which featured a vinyl roof, special wheels, and distinct mirrors.
Despite its reduction in size during the 1978 downsizing, the Monte Carlo offered more interior and trunk space without compromising on the vehicle’s luxury aspects. There were 6 generations in total, from 1970 to 1988.
- Year of Release: 1970
- Average Selling Price: $20,948
- Top Speed: 129 mph
- Standout Features:
- Spacious
- Several V8 Engine Options
The Malibu
Introduced in the 1960s, the Chevrolet Malibu was initially the only series of Chevelle offered, following the discontinuation of the low-line 300 and 300 Deluxe models. However, as the years rolled on, the Malibu name transitioned from being a trim-level of the Chevrolet Chevelle to becoming its own model line in 1978.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the Malibu received various styling updates and adopted new safety and convenience features such as front disc brakes and a stereo 8-track tape player. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Malibu was downsized and offered in a more efficient platform that was over a foot shorter and lighter than previous versions.
- Year of Release: 1960 (Became a separate model in 1978)
- Average Selling Price (Today): $19,033
- Top Speed: 85 mph
- Standout Features:
- Two Trim Options
- Three Wagon Configurations Available
- Fuel Efficient
Preserving the Past: Caring for Your Classic Chevy
Classic Chevy cars are not just vehicles; they are pieces of automotive history. The more diligently you maintain a classic car, the longer this little token of history will last.
Start by regularly checking fluid levels, such as oil, coolant, and automatic transmission fluid.
Moreover, obtaining a classic car insurance policy provides protection specific to the needs of classic Chevy car owners and their valuable investments. Cleaning it regularly is a must to avoid dust buildup that could lead to rust.
You must also store it in an enclosed space (or a covered space coupled with a proper car cover) to protect it against condensation-related corrosion. Traditional storage facilities are available, but if you want car storage close to home and at half the price, search for options on Neighbor, which is available in all 50 states.
Before You Go
Classic Chevrolet cars are not just a means of transportation but a symbol of innovation, design, and power. That makes preserving these old-school Chevys in the right way super important. Look for a storage space with overhead protection; you can find one through peer-to-peer marketplaces like Neighbor.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Cars Did Chevy Make in the 80s?
Chevrolet made many cars in the 1980s, the most notable of which are:
- Chevy Monte Carlo SS
- Corvette S4
- Camaro Z28
What Cars Did Chevy Discontinue?
The Chevette and Citation are two cars discontinued by Chevrolet.
What Was the 1st Chevy Made?
The Series C Classic Six was the first by Chevrolet, produced in 1913.
