2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS

Like other model designations in the Chevrolet lineup, the Monte Carlo badge goes back quite a long way. Chevrolet introduced the first Monte Carlo right in the midst of the "musclecar" era as a personal-luxury coupe with rear-wheel drive and a mighty V-8 engine.

Chassis and suspension enhancements, including stiffer front/rear spring rates, promise a sportier ride with improved body roll through corners.

The original rear-drive Monte Carlo coupe lasted from 1970 into 1988. Seven years later, for 1995, the badge was revived for a sporty two-door offshoot of the front-wheel-drive Lumina sedan. Finally, for the 2000 model year, the Monte Carlo name moved to a fresh front-drive midsize coupe with a racing-inspired aerodynamic profile--including an SS edition with a more potent V-6 engine.


Linkage with motorsports wasn't all looks, either. Far from it. Chevrolet's midsize coupes have participated heartily on the stock-car circuit. In recent years, Monte Carlos have scored the most victories in NASCAR Winston Cup racing.


A hot new version of the SS joins the Monte Carlo group for 2004, packing a supercharged rendition of the familiar 3.8-liter V-6 engine. Rather than the customary 200 horsepower in a regular SS, the "blown" V-6 produces 240 hp at 5200 rpm. Torque output jumps from 225 to 280 pound-feet, peaking at 3600 rpm.


A heavy-duty version of GM's Hydra-Matic 4T65-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission sends all that Supercharged SS torque to the front wheels. High-performance Goodyear P235/55R17 W-rated tires are mounted on 17-inch diamond-cut cast aluminum wheels.