1987 Chevrolet Caprice: A Look Back at the Last of an Era
The 1987 Chevrolet Caprice represented the final model year for the long-running "B-body" platform, a lineage that had defined American automotive comfort and style for decades. While on the cusp of a significant redesign, the '87 Caprice remained a capable and comfortable cruiser, a testament to its enduring appeal as a full-size, rear-wheel-drive sedan.
Highlights
- Engine: The 1987 Caprice offered a choice of reliable and torquey V8 engines. The standard powerplant was typically a 4.3-liter (260 ci) V8, known for its good fuel economy for its size and smooth operation. For those seeking more authority, an optional 5.0-liter (305 ci) V8 was available, providing a noticeable boost in performance. Both engines were paired with a robust three-speed automatic transmission, delivering a relaxed and effortless driving experience.
- Safety Features: Chevrolet equipped the '87 Caprice with a suite of safety features aimed at protecting occupants.
- Seat Belts: Standard front and rear seat belts were mandatory for all passengers, a crucial safety development of the era.
- Energy-Absorbing Steering Column: Designed to collapse upon impact, this feature helped to reduce the risk of chest injuries to the driver.
- Side-Guard Door Beams: Reinforced steel beams integrated into the doors provided additional protection in side-impact collisions.
- Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs): While not universally adopted at this point, some examples may have been equipped with DRLs, enhancing visibility to other motorists.
- Trims: The 1987 Caprice was primarily offered in two distinct trim levels, catering to different levels of luxury and feature availability.
- CAPRICE CLASSIC: This was the standard, well-equipped model, offering a comfortable interior with plush seating, power windows and door locks, and a premium sound system. It provided a solid foundation for comfortable daily driving.
- CAPRICE CLASSIC BURLWOOD: This top-tier trim elevated the Caprice experience with added touches of luxury. It typically featured distinctive "Burlwood" exterior trim accents, a more opulent interior with upgraded upholstery, often including velour or cloth, and a wider array of convenience features such as a tilt steering wheel and cruise control.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Spacious Interior: The Caprice was renowned for its cavernous interior, comfortably accommodating six passengers with ample legroom and headroom in both the front and rear.
- Trunk Space: The large trunk offered generous cargo capacity, making it ideal for family road trips and everyday errands.
- Smooth Ride: The long wheelbase and soft suspension tuning provided a remarkably smooth and quiet ride, characteristic of American luxury sedans of this era. It excelled at absorbing road imperfections, contributing to a relaxed driving experience.
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): The traditional RWD layout contributed to the Caprice's classic driving dynamics, offering a balanced feel and good traction, particularly in dry conditions.
What to Expect
Owning a 1987 Chevrolet Caprice is typically an experience of comfortable, no-frills cruising. These vehicles were built for durability and comfort, and many have proven to be reliable companions for their owners.
- Maintenance: Expect maintenance to be relatively straightforward, especially for those familiar with older V8 American cars. Basic tune-ups, fluid changes (oil, transmission fluid, coolant), and brake jobs are common. The availability of parts is generally good, with many aftermarket components readily accessible. However, due to the age of the vehicle, finding specific original parts might require more effort. As with any older vehicle, regular preventative maintenance is key to keeping it running smoothly. Parts that might require attention over time include exhaust components, suspension bushings, and fuel system components.
- Insurance: Insurance costs for a 1987 Caprice are typically quite affordable, especially when compared to modern vehicles. Its age, safety features (relative to its era), and the lower risk of theft contribute to lower premiums. Many classic car insurance policies are also available, which can offer specialized coverage at competitive rates if the vehicle is used primarily for pleasure and not daily driving.
Potential Considerations
While the 1987 Caprice offers a lot to like, potential buyers should be aware of a few common considerations:
- Rust: Being a product of the 1980s, rust can be a significant concern, particularly in areas where road salt is used during winter. Areas prone to rust include the wheel wells, rocker panels, floor pans, and around the windows. Thorough inspection for rust is crucial.
- Fuel Economy: While the 4.3-liter V8 was reasonably efficient for its time, the larger 5.0-liter and the vehicle's overall weight mean that fuel economy will not be a strong suit by modern standards. Expect fuel consumption to be on the higher side, especially in city driving.
- Technology: The Caprice is a product of its time, meaning it lacks modern technological conveniences such as infotainment systems, advanced driver-assistance features, or even common features like a tachometer in some base models. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and classic driving experience.
- Braking: While equipped with power-assisted brakes, the braking performance of the '87 Caprice may feel less responsive and require more pedal effort than contemporary vehicles with anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and larger rotors.
Overall Summary
The 1987 Chevrolet Caprice stands as a dignified representative of a bygone era of American automotive design and engineering. It offers a comfortable, spacious, and reliable platform for cruising, embodying the values of smooth ride quality and passenger comfort. While it may lack the technological sophistication and fuel efficiency of modern vehicles, its enduring charm, robust V8 engines, and classic rear-wheel-drive dynamics continue to appeal to those who appreciate the quintessential American full-size sedan. For enthusiasts and those seeking a comfortable and relatively simple classic car experience, the 1987 Caprice remains a compelling choice.