Not Your Father's Monte Carlo - The 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS

The restyled Monte Carlo SS is equipped with a 3.8-liter six-cylinder engine that utilizes 12 valves. The Buick engine is mated to a General Motors four-speed transaxle. This has resulted in an increase in horsepower and torque over the 2003 version.

The front brakes are disc while the rear brakes are disc. Steering is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The Monte Carlo uses power-assisted brakes, with 4-Wheel ABS support. Load balancing is provided by coil front springs and coil in the rear.

Statistics

The dimensions of the Monte Carlo SS are 72.30 inches wide by 197.90 inches long. It sits a comfortable 55.20 inches off the ground. It seats a standard five passengers, with 2 doors. The wheelbase of 110.50 allows for limited leg room for the backseat passengers.

There is a 36,000 mile, 36 month warranty with this vehicle, including a powertrain warranty of 36,000/36 miles/months. This is normal for this price range.

The original manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) was $27,395 when new, with a dealer invoice cost of $25,066. This price was in line with the industry average price for a 2-door Coupe.

Fuel Efficiency

The fuel system for the 2004 Monte Carlo is a SFI design, running on gasoline fuel. The fuel flow is regulated by a electronic system and is a fuel-injected MFI design. The storage capacity of the fuel tank is 17.00 gallons.

The Monte Carlo SS received a miles-per-gallon rating of eighteen in-city driving and twenty eight when it came to long-distance. Being a gas-powered non-hybrid car, this was subpar.

Conclusion

The 2003 model began the promise of the Chevrolet Monte Carlo. The 2004 expanded on this success and has proven to be a strong seller in most markets. Even with strong competition from other manufacturers Chevrolet hopes that the Monte Carlo SS will continue to be a profitable vehicle.