Any death in motorsport is a tragedy, but it becomes almost impossible to accept when the person is a genuine legend at the peak of their power. It is nearly twenty-three years to the day since Dale Earnhardt lost his life literally within sight of the chequered flag during the 2001 Daytona 500, but his memory remains fresh in the minds of countless racing fanatics. An uncompromising professional racer, he proved his diversity by turning his hand to successful business ventures. One of these was a Chevrolet dealership in Newton, South Carolina. It is from its showroom that this Monte Carlo SS rolled in 1986. It is a solid classic that presents well, but the reversible engine upgrades performed by a previous owner should have unlocked the additional power this muscle car deserves. It needs a new home, with the seller listing the SS here on eBay in Norwich, Connecticut. Bidding sits below the reserve at $7,725, and with the clock running down, interested parties may have to act quickly to secure this classic.

Chevrolet’s Fourth Generation Monte Carlo graced showroom floors from 1981 until 1988, with the SS variant joining the range in 1983 after twelve years in the wilderness. It wasn’t quite the fire-breathing beast it had been in previous forms, but it offered a welcome performance boost that endeared it to potential buyers. This 1986 model presents well in White, with only minor panel and paint imperfections. The stripes and graphics look surprisingly crisp for an unrestored vehicle of this vintage, and the only known rust is minor. The seller admits it has impacted the inner areas of the lower door corners, but the rockers, lower quarter panels, and underside are rock-solid. They believe the problem was probably caused by blocked drain holes, which is pretty common. The glass looks excellent, and the distinctive wheels should respond positively to some old-fashioned work with a high-quality polish.

The Monte Carlo’s interior isn’t perfect, and potential buyers may need to splash some cash to lift its presentation. The headliner is suffering from typical sagging issues, the pad is cracked, and the vinyl on the center armrest is damaged. The driver’s seat exhibits wear, but there are no developing holes or splits. Otherwise, it is tidy and acceptable if potential buyers seek a driver-grade classic. There is a range of aftermarket additions, from extra gauges to switches and an upgraded stereo. The tachometer needle sits at 3,000 rpm with the ignition off, and this requires investigation. It seems there are no other functional issues. Although it isn’t highly optioned, the new owner will undoubtedly welcome the power windows, power locks, cruise control, remote exterior mirrors, and tilt wheel.

The ’86 Monte Carlo SS was a “one size fits all” proposition, with all cars featuring a 305ci V8, a four-speed automatic transmission, and power assistance for the steering and brakes. The 305 produced 180hp and 225 ft/lbs of torque, allowing the SS to cover the ¼-mile in 16.3 seconds. However, this car should easily slash a considerable amount from that figure. Its engine has been breathed upon, featuring an upgraded Summit camshaft, an Edelbrock High-Rise intake, a carburetor from the same manufacturer, Hooker headers, and a dual exhaust with Flowmaster mufflers. The changes are reversible for those preferring originality, but the extra power would justify leaving it untouched. The Monte Carlo runs and drives well. The seller supplies this YouTube video of it in action. Its V8 sounds sweet, the transmission shifts smoothly, and it seems to throw the driver back in the seat when they hit the “loud” pedal.

This 1986 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS isn’t perfect, but I would describe its condition as “honest.” The seller hasn’t tried to hide its shortcomings or to paint it as something it isn’t. That approach has netted them thirty-three bids, and I expect that total to climb as the end draws near. Is this a car you might consider pursuing further, or do you prefer your classics unmolested? I wish you luck if you join the bidding war because you might face fierce competition.