Chevrolet Caprice — BrandWiki

Chevrolet Caprice

Overview

Fifth generation

manufacturer	Holden (General Motors)
aka	Buick Royaum (China) Holden Caprice/Statesman Daewoo Statesman (South Korea)
assembly	Australia: Adelaide, South Australia (Elizabeth)
predecessor	Chevrolet Lumina
engine	3.8 L L36 V6 5.7 L LS1 V8
production	1999–2006
model years	2000–2006 (Middle East)
body style	4-door sedan
class

The Chevrolet Caprice is a full-size car produced by Chevrolet in North America from 1965 through the 1996 model years. All versions of the full-size Chevrolet models reached their peak in 1965, with over a million units sold. It was the most popular car in the U.S. in the 1960s and early 1970s, during a time when its production also included the Biscayne, Bel Air, and Impala trims.

Introduced in mid-1965 as a luxury trim package for the Impala four-door hardtop, Chevrolet offered a complete line of Caprice body style versions for the 1966 and subsequent model years, including a "formal hardtop" coupe and a station wagon. The 1971 through 1976 models are the largest Chevrolets built. The downsized 1977 and restyled 1991 models were awarded Motor Trend Car of the Year.[2][3] Production ended in 1996.

From 2011 until 2017, the Caprice nameplate returned to North America as a full-size, rear wheel drive police vehicle, a captive import from Australia, built by General Motors

layout	Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive

platform	V-body

related	Holden Commodore VT/VX/VY/VZ Holden Caprice/Statesman Opel Omega Chevrolet Lumina

wheelbase	115.9 in

length	204.5 in

width	72.8 in

height	57.5 in

weight	1798-1998 kg

transmission	4-speed 4L60-E automatic

designer	Mike Simcoe

First generation (1966–1970)

1966

Caprice gained series status for the 1966 model year and was positioned as the top-line full-size Chevrolet.[8] It included a four-door hardtop, six- or nine-passenger station wagon, and a two-door hardtop with a squared-off formal roofline in contrast to the Impala/SS Sport Coupe's fastback roof styling. All four Caprice models were marketed as "Caprice Custom."

The Caprice Custom Estate, a new station wagon model with simulated woodgrain exterior trim was the first Chevrolet with such a design since its real woodie wagon was offered in 1954 on the Chevrolet Bel Air. All wagons included an all-vinyl upholstered two-row bench seat interior with an optional third rear-facing seat for two. The Custom Estate became the full-sized station wagon when the Buick LeSabre Estate was discontinued in 1964.[9] The 283 cuin V8 engine was standard for Caprice models with the 325 hp, 396 cuin "Turbo Jet" V8 optional.[10] It was possible to have Regular Production Option (RPO) L72, 425 hp 427 cu in (7.0 L) Turbo Jet V8 with solid lifters, special camshaft and carburetor, and 11 to 1 compression. An automatic transmission, power steering, white sidewall tires, and a vinyl top (on the hardtops) were extra-cost options, but most were built with them. Additionally, air conditioning, power windows, Cruise-Master speed control, power seats, an automatic headlight dimmer (1965 only) and stereo radios were available. The standard transmission was a Synchro-Mesh three-speed manual, mounted on the steering column. It remained standard throughout this generation.

The 1966 Caprice featured a revised grille and front bumper, and new rectangular taillights which replaced the Chevrolet-traditional triple round taillights used on Impalas since 1958, with the exception of the 1959 model. Lenses and silver trim on Caprices differed slightly from the other full-sized models. Sedans and coupe models included luxurious cloth and vinyl bench seats with a folding center armrest in the rear seat. Optional on both was a "Strato bench" seat which combined bucket-style seat backs and a center armrest with a bench cushion for six-passenger seating. Caprices had unique standard wheel covers, although some of the optional wheels and wheel covers on full-sized models were optional.

New options included the "Comfortron" air conditioning system where the driver could set a constant year-round temperature. A "Tilt/Telescopic" steering wheel option could be adjusted vertically in six positions, as well as be telescoped farther out from the steering column. Coupes could also be ordered with an all-vinyl interior featuring Strato bucket seats and center console with floor shifter, storage compartment, courtesy lighting, and full instrumentation at the front end of the console that was integrated with the lower instrument panel.

The 1965-70 GM B platform is the fourth best-selling automobile platform in history after the Volkswagen Beetle, Ford Model T, and the Lada Riva.

1967–1968

The 1967 Caprice received a restyling with more rounded body lines and revised grilles and taillights, optional front fender corner lamps which illuminated with the headlamps, as well as a revised instrument panel with round instruments and a new steering wheel. Taillamp lenses were all red as the backup lamps were relocated into the rear bumper, unlike in the lesser full-size models that had their backup lamps in the center of the taillamps. A dual-master brake cylinder was now included, while front disc brakes were optional. Other new options included a stereo 8-track tape player, power door locks, and a fiber optic exterior light monitoring system.[11] The same seating selections continued as before with revisions to trim patterns plus the new addition of all-vinyl upholstery as a no-cost option for conventional and Strato bench seats in sedans and coupes. Engines and transmission offerings were carried over from the previous year. The exception was that the optional 425 hp, 427 cuin Turbo Jet V8 was no longer listed, leaving the 385 hp 427 as the top engine. The three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission that previously only available with the 396 cuin and 427 V8s was now optional with the 275 hp 327 cuin Turbo Fire V8. As with all 1967 cars sold in the U.S., Caprices featured occupant protection safety features that included an energy-absorbing steering column, soft or recessed interior control knobs, and front outboard shoulder belt anchors.

The "100 millionth GM car" was a light blue metallic 1967 Caprice coupe.[12] It was assembled on April 21, 1967, at the Janesville, Wisconsin plant. It was actually the 100 millionth GM car built in the United States; production including Canadian plants had actually passed the 100 million mark in March 1966, with an Oldsmobile Toronado

1969–1970

The 1969 Caprice and other full-sized Chevrolets were restyled with new body lines and front bumpers that wrapped around the grille (again with optional concealed headlamps, for which washers could be added as a new "one year only" option) along with ventless front windows on all models. The 119 in wheelbase, inner bodyshell and framework were carried over from the 1965 model. The station wagon was renamed the Kingswood Estate and continued to use exterior wood grain trim along with the interior trim of the Caprice sedans and coupes. Front seat headrests were now standard equipment to meet federal safety standards and the ignition switch moved from the dashboard to the steering column and also locked the steering wheel when the key was removed. This was part of a Federal mandate for the 1970 models, but introduced a year earlier on all General Motors cars except the Corvair.

The 1969 Caprice also offered a new GM-designed variable-ratio power steering unit as optional equipment along with a seldom-ordered "Liquid Tire Chain" option, which was a vacuum activated button that would spray ice melt on the rear tires (UPC option code is "V75"). The standard engine was enlarged to a 235 hp 327 cuin V8 with optional engine choices including a new 350 cuin Turbo Fire V8 in 255 or versions, a 265 hp 396 cuin cubic-inch Turbo Jet V8, as well as a 427 cuin Turbo Jet V8s rated at 335 hp or 390 hp. All V8 engines were now available with the three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission for the first time though the two-speed Powerglide was still offered with the 327 and 350 V8s.

The 1970 Caprice received a minor facelift featuring a more conventional under the grille bumper replacing the wrap-around unit used in 1969, along with new triple vertical taillamps in the rear bumper. Power front disc brakes and fiberglass-belted tires on 15-inch wheels were made standard equipment along with a 250 hp, 350 cubic-inch Turbo Fire V8. Optional V8s included a 300 hp 350 and a new 265 hp 400 cuin Turbo Fire V8. The top engine was a new 454 cuin Turbo Jet V8 offered in 345 hp or 390 hp versions. Both the 250- and 265-hp Turbo Fire engines were designed to use regular gasoline while the 300 hp 350 Turbo Fire and both 454 Turbo Jet engines required premium fuel.

Second generation (1971–1976)

1971–1972

For 1971 the top-of-the-line Caprice was completely redesigned on a longer 121.5 in wheelbase and featured bold, Chrysler-like fuselage styling. Flush exterior door handles and double-shell roofs were new on the Caprice – both features first appearing on the 1970½ Camaro and Pontiac Firebird. The new styling was highlighted by a Cadillac-like "egg-crate" grille with a "Caprice" emblem in the center and brushed metal trim surrounding the taillights on the rear deck. The "Full-Perimeter" frame and all-coil suspension were refined for improvements in ride and noise reduction.

Inside were revised interiors featuring a two-spoke cushioned steering wheel and new instrument panel with horizontal sweep speedometer and instrument placement similar to previous full-sized Chevrolets. Caprices continued with higher grade interiors than their Impala counterparts with luxurious cloth-and-vinyl upholstery, wood grain trim on the dash, steering wheel, and door panels as well as carpeting on lower door panels on both sedans and coupes. A center front seat armrest was also featured on sedans.

Station wagons now used a unique 125 in wheelbase and were larger than ever before. Station wagons continued to use unique model names. The Kingswood Estate wagon was considered to be equivalent to the Chevrolet Caprice being the top-level wagon. Unlike previous years, station wagons used unique rear suspension using a solid axle with leaf springs as opposed to coil springs and trailing arms on sedans and coupes.

Wagons featured a "clamshell" design marketed as the Glide-away tailgate, also called a "disappearing" tailgate because when open, the tailgate was completely out of view. On the clamshell design, the rear power-operated glass slid up into the roof and the lower tailgate (with either manual or optional power operation), lowered completely below the load floor. The manual lower tailgate was counterbalanced by a torque rod similar to the torque rods used in holding a trunk lid open, requiring a 35 lb push to fully lower the gate. Raising the manual gate required a 5 lb pull via a handhold integral to the top edge of the retractable gate.[14] The power operation of both upper glass and lower tailgate became standard equipment in later model years. Wagons with the design featured an optional third row of forward-facing seats accessed by the rear side doors and a folding second-row seat — and could accommodate a 4 × sheet of building material with rear seats folded. The clamshell design required no increased footprint or operational area to open, allowing a user to stand at the cargo opening without the impediment of a door — for example, in a closed garage.

The Kingswood Estate had the 400 cuin two-barrel engine as standard with the same engine options as the coupes and sedans. Station wagon models came only with single exhaust systems which meant lesser power ratings than coupes and sedans.

Power front disc brakes were standard equipment, along with a larger 255 hp gross (170 hp net) 400 cubic-inch Turbo Fire V8. This engine, along with all optional power plants, was designed to run on regular leaded, low-lead or unleaded gasoline of 91 research octane or higher. To achieve this, all engines had the compression ratios lowered to 8.5:1. General Motors was the first of the big three to have all engines run on regular fuel and these changes were made to help meet the increasingly stringent emission regulations that were to come into place in years to come.

Optional engines included 300 horsepower (206 net) 402 cubic-inch Turbo Jet V8 (marketed as "Turbo Jet 400 on full-size cars, and as "Turbo Jet 396 on intermediate cars) and 365 hp gross (285 hp net) 454 Turbo Jet V8 which came standard with dual exhaust. When equipped with dual exhaust, the 400 Turbo Jet was rated at 260 hp. At year's beginning, a three-speed manual transmission was standard when the model was introduced in the fall of 1970, although at mid-year, the Turbo Hydramatic transmission and variable-ratio power steering became standard equipment on all Caprice models and lower-line models fitted with a V8 engine.

Chevrolet specifications included both "gross" and "net" horsepower figures in 1971, which was a year before the industry-wide transition to SAE net horsepower figures. SAE net horsepower standardized horsepower ratings in accord with SAE standard J1349 figures to get a more accurate horsepower figure. "Net" horsepower was measured "as installed" in a vehicle with power using accessories and emission equipment installed, exhaust systems, and air cleaners, leading to lower power ratings. For 1971, the 400 Turbo-Jet engine was rated at 300 gross horsepower with and without dual exhaust, while the more accurate net figures show it rated at 206 hp with a single exhaust and 260 with dual exhaust. Beginning in 1972, automakers would follow SAE standard J1349 and the "net" horsepower ratings were the only advertised ratings.

In its May 1971 issue, Motor Trend magazine published a comparison road test that included a Caprice Coupe and a Cadillac Sedan de Ville. The tested Caprice was powered by the 454 V8 and loaded with virtually all available options. Though testers noted that the Cadillac had a higher level of quality than the Chevrolet along with a far more luxurious interior (the DeVille was upholstered in leather while the Caprice had the standard cloth trim), the magazine ultimately considered the Chevy as the better value at $5,550 compared to the Cadillac's $9,081 price mainly due to the fact the $3,500 price difference bought only a modest-quality addition and a few more luxury features.

The 1972 Caprice received a facelift with a revised grille that was lower in height than the '71 model flanked by a new bumper with increased protection one year ahead of the Federal mandate. This was done by a bumper within the bumper design. Heavy gauge beams reinforced the bumper and attached to the frame. The rear bumper also featured this design and now had the triple taillights now mounted in the bumper. Engine offerings were carried over from 1971 with the switch to "net" horsepower ratings including 170 hp for the standard two-barrel 400 cuin Turbo Fire V8, 210 hp (240 hp with optional dual exhaust) for the four-barrel Turbo Jet 400 big-block V8 and 270 hp for the four-barrel dual exhaust 454 cuin Turbo Jet V8 (rated at 230 hp in wagons with single exhaust). Turbo Hydramatic transmission, variable-ratio power steering and power front disc brakes continued as standard equipment. New to the Caprice lineup was a pillared four-door sedan. All models also featured a revised "Astro Ventilation" system utilizing vents in the doorjambs that replaced the troublesome 1971 version that used vents in the trunk lid and turned out to be a major source of complaints to Chevy (and other GM divisions) dealers from customers. 6-way power seats, 8-track tape players, and air conditioning were optional.[15]

1973–1974

The Caprice models were renamed to Caprice Classic for the 1973 model year. The Kingswood Estate model with simulated wood-grain body side trim was now named the Caprice Estate. The convertible was moved from the Impala to the Caprice lineup for the first time in 1973.

The 1973 facelift included a new cross-hatch grille, 5 mi/h energy-absorbing front bumper and revised square taillights, again mounted in the bumper. New emission standards added EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valves to engines (with a new roller camshaft), and horsepower ratings were reduced. The standard Turbo-Fire 400 cuin two-barrel was now rated at 150 hp while the only optional engine was the Turbo-Jet 454 cuin V8 produced 245 hp with dual exhaust 215 hp with single exhaust used in station wagons. A new option on sedans and coupes was a 50/50 bench seat with recliner on the passenger side. The instrument panel and steering wheel were now offered in a variety of colors to harmonize the interior, and the wheel featured a new "soft-grip" rim. Front seats were also re-positioned to give more legroom for taller drivers, but shorter people found the driving position awkward.

The 1974 models featured a new formal, upright grille while turn signals moved from the bumper and were now inset of the dual headlights. The taillights were moved above the new 5 mi/h rear bumper. New thick "B" pillars and fixed rear quarter opera windows were new on two-door coupes, which essentially eliminated pillar-less hardtop design much like the GM intermediates did the previous year. Other body styles including the four-door pillared and hardtop sedans, convertible and Estate Wagon were carried over with only minor changes from 1973. New to the engine roster was a four-barrel version of the small block 400 cubic-inch Turbo Fire V8 rated at 180 hp (which was the standard engine on wagons and all cars sold in California, optional on other models in 49 states). All other engines were carried over from 1973 although the 454 Turbo Jet lost 10 hp, now rated at 235 hp Also new for 1974 were integrated lap and shoulder seat belts and an "interlock" system required the driver and front seat passengers to fasten seat belts to be able to start the engine.

1975–1976

The 1975 models received a new front end with swept-back headlights, revised grille, and turn signals returned to the bumper which also angles backward at both ends. New taillights now wrap around rear fenders. Caprice Classic Sport sedans now feature opera windows in the C-pillars. The dashboard, radio and climate control graphics were revised; the speedometer read up to 100 mi/h, and had smaller numbers for kilometers per hour. The Caprice convertible would be discontinued after the 1975 model year along with its full-size B-body counterparts including the Oldsmobile Delta 88, Buick Centurion, and Pontiac Grand Ville. About 8,350 Caprice Classic convertibles found buyers in 1975.

As fuel economy became a bigger priority among Americans following the Arab Oil Embargo of late 1973 and early 1974, Chevy made the smaller 145 hp 350 cuin small block V8 with two-barrel carburetor standard on all Caprice models except wagons for 1975. In California, the four-barrel 155 hp 350 V8 was the base engine and this engine was unavailable elsewhere. Optional engines included the 175 hp 400 cuin small block V8 (standard on wagons) and 215 hp 454 cuin big block, the last was not available in California. All engines except for the 454 were single exhaust systems with the introduction of the catalytic converter. Station wagons that used the 454 now featured dual exhaust as well. Also introduced this year were GM's "High Energy" electronic ignition and radial tires that were advertised as part of "Chevrolet's New Efficiency System." The theme of economy continued through to the new options this year: A new "Econominder" gauge package included a temperature gauge and a "fuel econominder", the second being a gauge alerting drivers as to when their driving habits caused the engine to use more or less fuel. Also new on the options list: intermittent windshield wipers, and 50/50 seating options on the Impala coupe/sedan and Caprice Classic convertible models.

"Landau" model was also introduced in 1975, and was primarily an appearance package.

Third generation (1977–1990)

1977–1979

Launched in late September 1976,[18][19] the 1977 Caprice Classic was drastically downsized, which reduced its weight and exterior dimensions, while increasing headroom, rear-seat legroom and trunk space compared to 1976 models. GM called its downsizing program Project 77 and invested $600 million to develop the most changed full-size Chevrolet to date.[20] The weight reductions from the 1976 models were 611 lb for coupes, 637 lb for sedans and 871 lb for wagons. The 1977 Caprice coupe and sedan were over 10 in shorter while the wagon was 14 in shorter. Wheelbases were reduced to 116 in from 121.5 in for coupes and sedans and 125 in for wagons. Width was reduced by 4 in for sedans and coupes; the wagon's width remained virtually unchanged. Heights were increased by 2.5 in and trunk capacities were increased to 20.9 cuft for sedans and 19.8 cuft for coupes.

Although by modern standards the downsized Chevrolet cars are large, the new Chevrolet had exterior dimensions closer to the intermediates of its day. The 1977 Caprice shared the same 116 in wheelbase as the intermediate Chevrolet Chevelle; 1977 also marked the first model year in history that a midsized car, the Monte Carlo, was larger than a full-sized car. The introduction of a downsized full-size car was considered a risk for General Motors. To help ensure the car was a success, preview clinics were held by Chevrolet that returned positive results.

Ford would respond with advertising the Ford LTD's traditional full-size attributes[21] and downsized the line two years later. Chrysler responded concurrently with Ford when it re-engineered its intermediate B-body cars and designated them as full-size R-bodies.

1977 models included a four-door sedan, two-door sedan, six-passenger two-seat station wagon, and an eight-passenger three-seat station wagon. All models had framed windows; no hardtop was offered.

Two-door models featured a unique rear window that created a semi-fastback appearance. This glass had sharp corners giving it three sides. This was done through a "hot-wire" bending process.[22] The Caprice was available as either the "Sport Coupe" or as the "Landau Coupe". The Landau Coupe features a partially covered vinyl roof.

Station wagon models received a new three-way tailgate for 1977; the clamshell design was gone. The three-seat models featured a rear-facing third seat for two occupants giving these cars an eight-passenger capacity. The cargo capacity was reduced to 87 cuft, and although the station wagon could still carry a 4 x sheet of plywood, this could now only be done with the tailgate down. The station wagons use a coil spring suspension in the rear as with sedans and coupes.

A V8 engine was no longer standard equipment - the base engine for 1977 Caprice coupes and sedans was Chevy's long-running 250 cuin I6 engine rated at 110 hp. This engine was previously available in a full-size Chevy in the 1973 lower trim Bel Air. Standard on station wagons and optional on other Caprice models was a 145 hp 2-barrel 305 cuin version of the Chevy's small-block V8. This was the first model year the 305 cu in had been used in a full-size Chevrolet; it was first introduced in 1976 in compact and mid-sized Chevrolet lines. A 170 hp 350 cuin V8 with four-barrel carburetor was now the top engine offering as the larger 400 cuin and 454 cuin V8s were discontinued. Standard for all models was the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic transmission.

With the new lighter weight and smaller engines, Chevrolet promised increase fuel economy without great loss of performance compared to 1976 models. The EPA estimates for 1977 Chevrolet was 17 mpgus city and 22 mpgus highway for six-cylinder models. Ford's 1977 LTD was rated at 15 mpgus city and 19 mpgus highway with its smallest engine, the 302 cuin V8. By the same EPA estimates, Plymouth's Gran Fury returned 13 MPG city and 18 MPG highway with the 318 V8. Performance was good when comparing the smaller 1977 Caprice to the 1976 Caprice. A 1976 350 two-bbl powered Chevrolet ran 0–60 mph in 12.9 seconds, while a 400 powered model ran 10.7 seconds. 1977 models ran 11.4 seconds to 60 mi/h with the 305 engine and 10.8 seconds with the 350 engine. Car and Driver tested a 1977 Chevrolet Impala with the 350 engine and 3.08:1 axle running a 9.6 second 0–60 mph time and obtaining a 117 mi/h top speed. The 350 was available with a 2.56:1 axle ratio and a 3.08 axle ratio which may explain the difference in performance times.

The 1977 models became the number one selling car in the United States. (In 1976, the previous generation full-size Chevrolet was the third best-seller). More than 660,000 full-size Chevrolets were produced for the 1977 model year, with the most popular model being the four-door Caprice Classic sedan (212,840 produced). By 1978 more than 1 million downsized Chevrolets had been produced. Auto publications agreed with the public reception, with Motor Trend awarding the 1977 Chevrolet Caprice Car of the Year.

Car and Driver declared "Even the most jaded car critics are in fact tripping over each other trying to be the first to anoint this sedan to be the best full-sized Chevrolet ever made." Car and Driver commented on the F41 suspension option which included stiffer springs, larger sway bars, wheels, and tires to say, "It will make you think your Chevy came from the Black Forest instead of Detroit."

1978 models had minor front and rear styling revisions. The engine line-up remained unchanged, but numerically lower axle ratios were used in an attempt to boost fuel economy. The 305 and 350 engines went from a standard 2.56:1 axle for 1977 (2.73:1 for wagons), to a 2.41:1 axle for 1978 (2.56:1 for wagons). An optional 3.08 axle was also available for 350 powered Caprices. The 305 V8 engine received an aluminum intake manifold which reduced engine weight by 35 pounds. A larger brake booster was also added to help reduce braking effort. New options included a steel sliding moonroof and 40-channel CB radio built into the AM/FM radio.

The 1979 models continued with only minor refinements. One major change was the relocation of the reverse lights to the bumper filler panels right below the taillights. Again the front and rear styling was refreshed slightly. The 250 six gained five horsepower, while the 305 V8 lost 15 hp. The change to the 305 was a result of switching from the larger Rochester 2GC carburetor to the smaller Rochester Dualjet carburetor. The 350 engine was unchanged.

1980–1985

The 1980 Caprice Classic saw its first major revision since the 1977 downsizing. To further improve the fuel economy of the car, efforts were made to reduce weight and improve aerodynamics. The Caprice received new exterior sheet metal, without drastically changing the look of the car. To improve aerodynamics the hood was tapered lower, while the trunk area was higher. The coupe's distinctive curved rear window was replaced with a nearly flat piece of glass, giving the model a more formal profile similar to that of the sedan. The grille was now an egg crate style while the tail-light panel featured three separate square lights per side. All the doors and components within were redesigned to be lighter, including the window-crank mechanisms, which now used a tape-drive mechanism. Greater use of aluminum including in-bumper reinforcement and in-sedan/coupe radiators helped to further reduce the overall weight of the vehicle. 1980 models were approximately 100 lb lighter than 1979 models.

The new styling increased the trunk capacity of both coupes and sedans to 20.9 cuft. This increase was also partially achieved with a now-standard compact spare tire on a 16 in wheel. A new frame lift jack replaced the bumper-mounted model. A larger 25 usgal fuel tank was standard equipment in sedans and coupes. Easy-roll radial tires, improved anti-corrosion measures, low-friction ball joints, and larger front-suspension bushings were also new for 1980. Puncture-sealant tires and cornering lights were new options.

The 250 cuin inline-six was replaced by a new 90-degree Chevrolet 3.8 L (229 cu in) V6 as the base engine for sedans and coupes. This engine shared the same bore and stroke as the 305 cu in V8. California emission cars used the Buick 3.8 L (231 cu in) V6 engine. The Chevrolet 3.8 L was rated at 115 hp while the Buick V6 engine had a 110 hp rating. Although the 3.8 L V6 had the same horsepower rating as the 250 six used in 1979, the 250 had 25 lbft more torque than the 3.8 L (200 lb·ft vs 175 lb·ft).

1986–1990

1986 marked the first major exterior restyle since 1980. From 1986 to 1990, the Caprice was the only sedan riding on the B platform; (except in Canada where Pontiac Parisienne remained as a sedan for 1986 and available as a safari wagon until 1989) all other sedans had been discontinued or transferred to the smaller, front-wheel-drive H platform. The front fascia was restyled to have a more aerodynamic look: the Caprice emblem was no longer a standup hood ornament, but was an emblem located on the vertical area directly above the grill in the center of the front fascia. A smaller grille with prominent vertical chrome divider bars replaced the larger previous egg-crate grille. The redesigned front end still had two side-by-side rectangular sealed beam headlamps, as had been used on the Caprice since 1976; the taillights were restyled, but continued to have three chambers—another long-running Caprice styling cue. New aerodynamic side-view mirrors were used. The car's sheetmetal remained otherwise unchanged.

The former Impala was rebranded as "Caprice" (without "Classic" appended), unifying all full-size Chevrolets under a single model name for the first time since the early 1930s. Still available was a Caprice Classic four-door sedan, coupe and eight-passenger station wagon, while a new Brougham four-door sedan joined the model line-up. Brougham models featured a 55/45 front seat with armrest, and a new "pillow design" with velour fabrics. Broughams featured woodgrain appliqué on its dash fascia, a dome map light, front-door courtesy lights and 20 oz carpeting. Power window controls for all models moved from the door panel to the armrest for improved ergonomics.

The 4.3 L V6 engine received a 10 hp boost, rated at 140 hp. The 305 cu in engine was unchanged and remained standard on station wagons. Station wagons built after approximately November 1, 1985 came equipped with the Oldsmobile

9C1 Police model

A police package, orderable under GM's Regular Production Option code 9C1, was introduced for the new base-model Caprice that replaced the Impala for 1986. In the 1986 Michigan State Police tests, the Chevrolet Caprice was competitive with the Ford LTD Crown Victoria, Dodge Diplomat and Plymouth Gran Fury. The Caprice had the fastest quarter-mile times of the three, and the best fuel economy. The Dodge and Plymouth outran the Caprice in the 0–100 mph times, but placed last in the road course times. However, there was only a 1/3 second difference between the fastest and slowest vehicles on the road course. All four cars were very close in competition for 1986, and there was little performance difference.[25]

For 1987, the 9C1 Caprice changed little. The 350-4bbl engine received a boost in compression, roller lifters, and new center-bolt valve covers.[26] The 180 hp rating of this engine helped boost the Caprice's performance above its competition.

Fourth generation (1991–1996)

Introduced in April 1990 for the 1991 model year in America, the Caprice was restyled, replacing the previously rectilinear styling with rounded, more aerodynamic sheetmetal.[32] The Caprice Classic received Motor Trend's 1991 Domestic Car of the Year.

General Motors initially decided in 1980 to eliminate the production of the former generation model by 1989 for the 1990 model year, but a business decision in 1985 to plan an exterior redesign gave a further continuation and this generation's fiberglass prototype model was first shown in April 1987.[33]

While the body and interior were new, the chassis, powertrain, and transmission were largely carried over from the former generation 1977 and 1990 models respectively; the steel fuel tank was replaced by an HDPE tank (with capacity on sedans decreasing from 25 USgal to 23 USgal), and anti-lock brakes were added as standard equipment on all models.[34] Several major components (including the floor pan) are entirely interchangeable between 1977 and 1996, merely having a reskinned body on an already dated body-on-frame platform introduced in 1977.

Much of the engine availability was carried over from the previous generation, which included for all models the 5.0 L L03 V8. The 5.7-liter L05 V8 was also carried over; it was originally only available on 1991 and 1992 9C1 Police package models (which featured a digital speedometer), but finally made available to the general public on the 1993 Caprice LTZ, and the LB4 4.3 L V6 was carried over to the 1992–93 Caprice 9C6 taxi package for increased fuel economy at significantly reduced power output.[35]

Two trim levels were initially offered, Caprice and Caprice Classic, replacing the previous Classic and Brougham models.

The final B-body Caprice was not well received by critics and did not hold on to high annual sales numbers, with roughly half from fleet sales. The car's styling was criticized as a "beached whale"[36][37] and "an upside-down bathtub", then later as the "bubble Caprice" in response to the former generation's nickname "box Caprice".

1993 revisions removed the rear fender skirts in favor of more open wheel wells on the sedan model; station wagons retained the skirted wheel wells. With 1991–93 Caprices essentially having the same three engine options and 4L60 transmission from the former generation, in the fall of 1993 for the 1994 model year, the Caprice received two new V8 engine replacements that shared the exact same external dimensions yet differ internally, and a new transmission. The standard engine in all sedans, including many 9C1 police sedans, was the 200 hp, L99 263 cu. in. (4.3 L) V8 for better fuel economy in response to rising fuel prices after the Persian Gulf War that was rated at 240 lb·ft (325 N·m) of torque on 87 octane. Caprice sedans were the only cars to receive the L99 4.3 L V8 engine. The Caprice was one of the first cars to introduce OBD 1.5 as standard prior to OBD II being mandatory on all sedans for the 1996 model year.

For model year 1994, Chevrolet offered an optional detuned (by 40 hp) version of the fourth generation Corvette's LT1 350 cu. in. (5.7 L) performance V8 engine rated at 260 hp and 330 lbft of torque. The LT1 was optional in the 9C1 police packages, oriented to highway and rural use, and standard on all wagons, with General Motors offering roughly 846 optional 1A2 Caprice special service police package wagons between 1991 and 1995, which were generally available for other administrative duties such as; supervisors, detectives, unmarked units, and fire departments. The LT1 350 cu. in. was standard in civilian sedans with the addition of the V92 towing package. The V92 towing package also gave a heavy-duty suspension with similar spring rates to the 9C1 police car suspension, 2.93 gears, V08 heavy-duty cooling with a mechanical fan, heavy-duty rear drum brakes, and limited-slip differential. The 4L60-E transmission replaced the 4L60. Transmission failures shortly after 100,000 miles (160,000 km), especially when paired with the stronger LT1 V8, were commonplace due to transmission build and software specs that sacrificed long-term durability for slightly improved fuel economy scores. The 1994 Caprice's interior had a redesign which featured a Camaro steering wheel, digital speedometer and odometer, and a new instrument panel, which included a front passengers-side airbag.

For the 1995 model year, the rear side window between the back door and C pillar, featured a so-called Hofmeister kink and both the sedan and wagon had their now foldable exterior mirrors repositioned. In 1995 and 1996 the Impala SS was exported to Middle Eastern markets badged as the Caprice SS, with the car being identical to its American counterpart except for the side fonts on the rear quarter panel and the badge on the dashboard saying Caprice SS.

The Caprice 9C1 with the LT1 engine became one of the quickest and most popular modern-day police vehicles. This vehicle established such strong devotion by many police departments that a cottage industry thrived in refurbishing Caprices for continued police service after GM discontinued production of the car, with many police departments keeping them in service longer than other police cars from that era.[38] The 1994-96 Caprice 9C1 5.7 L V8 and Impala SS are mechanically the same, as both shared four wheel disc brakes and rigid heavy duty suspension components. In 2006, Chrysler introduced the Dodge Charger Pursuit, serving as an indirect successor to the Caprice's muscle sedan heritage after a decade long absence.

The car's production was stopped in December 1996 due to sales pressure from the mid-size Chevrolet Lumina, financial troubles at General Motors, and consumer demand shifting from full-sized family sedans to the increasingly popular sport utility vehicles.[39][40] The Arlington, Texas vehicle assembly plant (used for the Caprice, Impala SS, Buick Roadmaster, Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser, and Cadillac Fleetwood) was converted to produce GM's more profitable full size SUVs (the Tahoe and Suburban). In 1997, the Lumina LTZ would take the Caprice's place as Chevrolet's premium passenger car. Total production of 1991–96 models was 689,257 with production ending on December 13, 1996.[41] There were plans to reintroduce the Caprice for the 2000 model year in America, but was only revived in the Middle East as the Holden Caprice.

Production Figures:

Sixth generation (2006–2017)

Middle East

In 2006, a Holden WM Caprice-based Chevrolet Caprice was launched, the Caprice was offered in four different trims: the LS, LTZ (Statesman), SS and Royale (Caprice), the LS and SS trims have no Australian equivalent.[46]

The 3.6 L LY7 V6 was optional for the LS and LTZ trims. With the 6.0 L L98 V8 was available for the whole range.[47][48] In 2011 the V6 engine was dropped.[49]

The LS, LTZ, and Royale all share the front bumper as the Statesman while the LS lacks the Statesman foglights which are seen on the LTZ and Royale; the SS gains the WM Caprice's front bumper and foglamps minus the parking sensors. The LS also gains the VE Commodore Omega's interior and trims, while the LTZ gains the trims from the VE Commodore V based on the Commodore Omega, and the Statesman's interior minus the headrests with the LCD screens and DVD player, while the Royale gains the Statesman's trims, and the Statesman's interior with the LCD screens in the headrests and DVD player from the Holden versions, the grille from the Daewoo Veritas, hood ornament similar to the one that the appears on the 4th and 5th generation models, and the SS gains the same trims as the WM Caprice, interior from the WM Caprice minus the headrests with the LCD screens and DVD player, color-coded version of the grille's trim, and the optional lip spoiler from the WM Caprice.

The Chevrolet Caprice was updated for 2011 to include the features from the Holden WM II Caprice. The Caprice lettering engraved on the chrome trim was dropped and replaced by a Caprice nameplate badge which is below the chrome trim on the left end of the rear fascia on the trunk. The V6 engines were dropped in the LS & LTZ leaving the V8 as the standard engine while the LS got the trims that were previously on the LTZ, while the LTZ & Royale get the trims seen on the VE Commodore Calais V Series II, the SS now gains the trims that the WM Caprice V Series II has. The LS, LTZ, & Royale still retain the Statesman front bumper, while the SS still retains the Caprice/Caprice V front bumper. The Royale also gains a rear vision camera in the chrome trim on the trunk which is absent on the LS, LTZ, & SS like the Holden Caprice & Caprice V. The standard engine was a 3.6 L LY7 V6 for the LS and LTZ trims, while the 6.0 L L98 V8 was available across all trims.[50] For the 2013 model year for the SS the Impala badge on the trunk was dropped in favor of the traditional Chevrolet bowtie.

The Caprice was updated again based on the Holden WN Caprice. The Caprice LS & LTZ still retain the front bumper as the WM Statesman while the Royale has the same front bumper as seen on the WM/WN Caprice and the SS and the trims that were previously on the 2011–2013 SS, and the VF Calais's interior. The SS now gains the rear vision camera which was previously only available on the Caprice Royale, the same interior updates the WN Caprice and Caprice Royale, and also delivered the same trims as on the WN Caprice V & while the LS, LTZ, and SS gain new trims.

North America

On October 5, 2009, General Motors announced the Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle (PPV).[51]

The Caprice PPV was based on a previous Australian-built export to the Middle East, the Chevrolet Caprice LS (which was based on the Holden Caprice WM series I, sold only in the Australasian market). The front end and grille were the same as the 2007–2010 Caprice LS.

While the 2009 onward Chevrolet Caprice was officially sold only to law enforcement agencies in the US, some vehicles evidently have been purchased by private individuals via dealers. These included demonstrator vehicles, excess unsold dealer inventory, and purchases for demonstration use by upfitters and related businesses.[52]

The Caprice PPV was imported from Australia as a captive import of the Holden Caprice (WM series), rather than the short-wheelbase Holden Commodore (VE), which was sold in a police pack in Australia. (However, these cars were both designed on GM's Zeta platform.[53]