We often focus on high-end hypercars, but let’s spare a moment to think about the average person. Not everyone can afford fancy new vehicles, let alone electric ones. Remember when the CEO of Kellogg’s suggested eating cereal for dinner? Well, if you’re still fuming about that, you might want to steer clear of a certain bargain-basement used family car.
Enter the 1982 Chevrolet Caprice Classic Wagon with a 5.7-liter Oldsmobile diesel engine, infamous for its association with the demise of diesel cars in North America.
While opinions vary on just how much blame this engine deserves, there’s no denying it was a PR disaster for General Motors. Surprisingly, Oldsmobile attempted to spread this troubled engine across various GM brands, including Cadillac, Buick, GMC, Pontiac, and, of course, Chevrolet.
Back then, these engines were lauded for their exceptional fuel economy, a big deal as fuel prices stabilized after the oil crisis. With careful driving, you could squeeze over 400 miles out of a single tank of diesel. Unfortunately, many GM customers were clueless about maintaining diesel engines properly, hastening their demise.
This old Chevy Caprice diesel wagon might be one of the last survivors, but it’s in rough shape. From the worn paint and rust spots to the grime in the rear seats, it’s clear this wagon has seen better days. Buying a late ’80s GM product in 2024 is a risky proposition at best.
At $2,199, is it worth the gamble? Only if you’re truly desperate. Otherwise, save yourself the trouble and get a Grand Caravan instead.