Aerodynamics is the black art of motorsport, with teams in categories like Formula 1 spending millions of dollars to squeeze every millisecond out of their machinery. Virtually every racing category follows the same process to some extent, including NASCAR. This 1987 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS is a perfect example, as the company sought to improve race results with its Aerocoupe derivative. This one is a tidy survivor, although lifting its presentation would not be difficult or expensive. It is listed here on eBay in Staunton, Illinois. Bidding sits at $7,600, although that figure is below the reserve.

This shot helps demonstrate the defining feature of the Aerocoupe. NASCAR would not stand for a repeat of the “Winged Warriors” era of 1969 and 1970, meaning manufacturers needed to find more subtle ways to extract better aerodynamic efficiency and downforce from their competition models. This became critical at tracks like Daytona and Talladega, where speeds topped 200mph. The answer was a “slipperier” nose and a sloping back window to channel air onto the rear spoiler. It is a look not favored by everyone, but Chevrolet found itself in the enviable situation where demand outstripped supply in the first year. This Monte Carlo is from the second and final production run and presents well as a survivor. Its Dark Red paint shines nicely, with no major issues or problems. There are small chips and marks across the exterior, but the overall condition is acceptable for a driver-grade vehicle. The panels are straight, the plastic shows no signs of deterioration, and this classic is rust-free. It retains its original alloy wheels that sport some marks and scratches, but there are no glass issues.

The interior is where this Aerocoupe falls down, showing some significant damage and deterioration. The dash pad sports plenty of cracks, and since replacements retail for around $720, the winning bidder must decide whether the car is worth the investment. It is worth noting that Aerocoupe values are climbing well above the market average, which may provide ample justification for spending more than the cost of a simple cover to hide the problem. The outer edge of the driver’s seat has wear, while the grab handle is missing from the driver’s door. Otherwise, the condition is acceptable for a survivor. The original stereo has made way for an aftermarket unit, but there are no other visible changes. Comfort and convenience features include air conditioning, power windows, cruise control, and a tilt wheel.

The Monte Carlo SS was considered a 1980s muscle car, but that definition blurred during The Malaise Era. Its 305ci V8 sent 180hp to the road via a four-speed automatic transmission. Performance was all you might expect from a car weighing 3,525 lbs with such a modest amount of power on tap. Chevrolet’s official performance figures make for interesting reading and expose the fact that the homologation special was not as potent on our streets as its more conservative sibling. The ¼-mile gallop took 17 seconds, with its V8 running out of breath at 119mph. The Aerocoupe weighs 58 lbs more than a regular SS, and this difference is felt under acceleration. The standard SS took 16.6 seconds to cover the ¼-mile, while the top speed climbed to 126mph. However, the Aerocoupe was a better track proposition, which is common with vehicles of this type. The seller provides no information on how this Chevy runs or drives, but they supply this YouTube video of the car running. Its engine sounds healthy, with no smoke or odd noises.

Chevrolet introduced the Monte Carlo SS Aerocoupe as a toe-in-the-water exercise in 1986 purely for NASCAR homologation. It produced the required 200 examples to qualify for competition. Demand far outstripped supply, and the Aerocoupe returned for an encore in 1987. The company easily sold 6,052 before discontinuing the model. Its attention turned to the Lumina as its new front-line racing machine, ending a brief but shining moment in the Monte Carlo’s history. Prices vary widely, but the overall condition should see this car comfortably hit $15,000. However, with values rising dramatically in the past year, I wouldn’t rule out a higher figure. With the possibility that this Aerocoupe could be a rock-solid investment, would you consider dropping a bid on this classic?