Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Minneapolis Street Sighting: Chevrolet Chevette











If there's one thing the end of the 1970s, and introduction to the 1980s gave us, its the rise of small, dependable cars. Ford had the Escort, Chrysler Corporation had the little Colts and Champs, and GM had the Chevette and much less known Pontiac T-1000. While not powerhouses, these vehicles (from my experience) did alright in the snow despite the rear wheel drive.; they were light enough that they were easily maneuverable.
Like most cars from this era, rust protection was rather iffy; while I certainly have seen my fair share of rusty earlier models, these 1980s example didn't rust out quite as fast; as a result, I still can find a decent example from time to time-- rare, but not all that unsurprising. I think this example is about average for the condition I see around here. Beat up, trim is partially gone, and it had some body damage, but overall it looked relatively presentable. The paint is--well, it's there, the factory badges, to the extent that it had any, are present, and have stood the test of time. The wheels, however-- not so much. While it sports cheapo hubcaps, it appears to be rocking different steelies all around, which would suggest that this car is likely a junkyard rat in terms of parts and repairs. Not really a bad thing, it just gives a slightly unsafe vibe; knowing me, though, I'd likely do the same, since Chevette parts aren't exactly found at Auto Zone.
Which brings me to this car here; I've seen this example around town for quite a while, and I've never quite known where it lives. I was riding in a new part of Minneapolis one fall day, and I spotted this, that first blue Bonneville, the Rocky, and quite a few more cars which I haven't posted yet; it appears I discovered a gold mine for older, and relatively uncommon cars within in the city. Not surprisingly, the neighborhood, while not exactly shady, isn't a place I'd recommend visiting after nightfall.

1 comment:

Webmom said...

I miss Little Silver...