What is the rarest Monte Carlo SS?
The rarest Monte Carlo SS is the 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS 454. This high-performance variant of the iconic Monte Carlo coupe was produced in extremely limited numbers, making it one of the most sought-after and valuable muscle cars from the era.
What is the Monte Carlo SS?
The Chevrolet Monte Carlo was introduced in 1970 as a personal luxury coupe, designed to compete with models like the Ford Thunderbird and Pontiac Grand Prix. The SS (Super Sport) package was an optional high-performance trim level that added a more powerful engine, upgraded suspension, and distinctive styling cues.
The Rarest Monte Carlo SS: 1970 SS 454
The 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS 454 is considered the rarest and most valuable of all Monte Carlo SS models. It was powered by Chevrolet's mighty 454 cubic inch (7.4 liter) V8 engine, which produced 360 horsepower. This engine was only available in a limited number of Chevrolet models that year, making the SS 454 an exceptionally rare and desirable performance car.
According to production data, Chevrolet built just 4,298 units of the 1970 Monte Carlo SS 454, out of a total Monte Carlo production run of over 200,000 that year. This exclusivity, combined with the car's impressive performance and iconic styling, has made the 1970 SS 454 one of the most valuable and sought-after Monte Carlos on the collector car market today.
Key Features of the 1970 Monte Carlo SS 454
- Engine: 454 cubic inch (7.4 liter) V8 producing 360 horsepower
- Transmission: 3-speed automatic or 4-speed manual
- Styling: Distinctive SS badging, hood scoops, and unique trim
- Suspension: Upgraded springs, shocks, and stabilizer bars for improved handling
- Brakes: Power-assisted front disc brakes
The 1970 Monte Carlo SS 454 is a true collector's item, prized by enthusiasts for its combination of exclusivity, performance, and iconic styling. Its rarity and desirability have made it one of the most valuable and sought-after muscle cars from the golden era of American performance.
What year is the rarest Monte Carlo SS?
1 of 200 built in 1986, and just 75,753 actual miles!
Being 1 of 200 built makes this the rarest Monte Carlo SS built.
How much is a 1988 Monte Carlo SS worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $16,500 for a 1988 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS in good condition with average spec.
What year is the most sought after Monte Carlo?
The most popular year for the Monte Carlo, based on sales, was 1974, which sold over 300,000 units. Other popular years include 1976, which also set sales records, and the entire 1973-1977 generation due to its redesign. For performance enthusiasts, the 1970 SS 454 and 1984-1988 SS models are often considered iconic and popular for their power and style.
Highest sales year
- 1974: This year is the top seller, with Chevrolet selling over 300,000 units.
Other popular years
- 1976: This year also saw record-breaking sales for the Monte Carlo, according to this YouTube video.
- 1973-1977: The second generation, which launched in 1973, was a major success and confirmed the model's leadership position in the personal luxury coupe segment, notes Cars.com and Hagerty.
- 1970: The debut year of the Monte Carlo is a fan favorite for its styling and the availability of the powerful 454 big-block engine in the SS model, as seen on this Facebook post from HOT ROD Magazine and this Facebook post from The Gasoline Soul.
Popular performance models
- 1984-1988 SS: These years are highly regarded for bringing performance back to the model, especially with the 5.0L High Output V8, the rear spoiler, and the muscle-car styling, as discussed on this Facebook group and this YouTube video.
- 1985-1988 Monte Carlo SS: These later models are often preferred by collectors for their specific features like bucket seats and floor shifters, according to Hagerty.
How rare is a 1987 Monte Carlo SS Aerocoupe?
SS-based Aero Coupe production numbered just 200 homologation units during '86, while another 6,052 examples were built during '87, for a grand total of 6,252 cars.
