Introduced as the successor to the problematic Chevy Vega, the Chevy Chevette was a widely popular entry-level vehicle throughout its 12-year run, with as many as 2.7 million units produced overall. Likely to little surprise, many Chevette examples were driven until their wheels fell off due to their entry-level status, but now, a like-new 1985 model is currently up for grabs online.
Listed for auction by Hagerty, this 1985 Chevy Chevette features less than 2,900 miles on the odometer, which averages out to approximately 74 miles per year for the last 39 years. In addition, the three-door hatchback boasts a clean Carfax report and only two previous owners.
Of course, the Chevette is a no-frills experience that focuses on function over form. To this end, the Medium Brown Metallic exterior is extremely mild—especially by modern standards—and features minimal styling elements. That being said, this particular example was optioned as the “sporty” CS model and does include a black-finished grille and trim moldings, body-colored end caps, and a front air dam, as well as all the corresponding badging.
As for rollers, this example rides on 13-inch steelies with hubcaps, which are also wrapped in Hankook whitewall tires. Stopping power is provided by front disc and rear drum brakes.
Moving to the interior, a tan cloth colorway adorns the cabin, while features are few and far between. Creature comforts include a Delco AM radio, door map pockets, a center dome light, a three-speed heating and ventilation system, dual-speed electric wipers, and a fully carpeted interior. Conveniently, there is also 27.1 cubic feet of cargo space.
Additional goodies include a front stabilizer bar, rack and pinion steering, and a 12.2-gallon fuel tank.
Under the hood lies an OHV naturally aspirated 1.6L I4 gasoline engine, which chokes out a measly 60 horsepower. Output is driven to the rear wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission.
So, what’re you thinking, dear reader? Despite its entry-level status, can you see this 1985 Chevy Chevette trading hands for a significant sum of money? Let us know what you think in the comment section below.
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Moving opposite to market trends.
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This example is a former NCRS award winner.
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Breaking out the spec sheets for a comparison.
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2900 miles... Ya she's all worn out.
Bought a 1979 brown one new with the "high output" motor with an automatic.. Driving a stretch of road from Tupelo to Oxford,Ms, you had to floor it going down one hill to make it up the next hill with a remaining 45mph. Guy opened his larger car door against it and caved in the entire quarter panel. Wife drove to her teaching job and told her students that she had a new 'Vette. They were very less than impressed seeing the Chevette in the parking lot. Sold it in late '83 for a 1984 Monte Carlo SS. The 305 HO in it was much more satisfying.
Too bad its not a 4 speed manual.
Say what you want about the Chevette but will the 2024 Bolt be around in 39 years? Probably not because the cost to swap in a new battery pack will cost more than the vehicle is worth.
The old joke is a guy looking to date a beauty queen tells her he has a Vette. She is impressed. Then he shows up in this.
Some cars are better left unremembered. This is one of them.