Chevy Monte Carlo

1974 Monte Carlo

Posted on 15. Dec, 2009 by admin in Second Generation

1974 Monte Carlo

The 1974 Monte Carlo was a lot like its 1973 predecessor, except for a few minor detail changes. The revised grille on the front end of this Monte Carlo was one of the biggest differences first seen, but upon a bit closer inspection, one could also notice that that taillights were not only vertical, but that they were also taller and slimmer than they had been. There was a relocated license plate as well, and the 5 mph bumper, which had been federally mandated on the front a year earlier, was also included on the back in this model. The base Monte Carlo, which had been equipped with standard suspension, a manual transmission, and bias-ply tires was discontinued in 1974, leaving the “S” and “Landau” models the only choices for buyers. These models were equipped with radial ply tires, standard power steering, disc brakes on the front end, and also upgraded suspension for a smoother ride.

In place of the old transmission was a three speed manual that was listed as standard on both of these models, with the 350 V8 being the standard motor. If you wanted the optional 400 or 454 V8 motors, then you would need to get the automatic transmission. Most Monte Carlos shipped in 1974 with the Turbo Hydra Matic transmission installed. The 350 Turbo Fire V8, which was standard on all Monte Carlos of this year, was again rated at 145 HP. If you lived in California though, your standard changed to the 350 Turbo Fire V8 four barrel, rated at 160 HP.

1974 Monte Carlo with 350 V8

The option list for 1974 brought back an old favorite in the motor department. The 400 Turbo Fire small block V8 was back, rated at 150 HP, and was outfitted with a two barrel carburetor… though you could also get it at 180 HP with a four barrel. The top engine available in the 1974 Monte Carlo was the 454 Turbo Jet big block, a V8 rated at a whopping 235 HP.

Even though the Arab oil embargo really helped to kill sales for intermediate sized cars, this classic Monte Carlo performed stronger than ever on the sales floor. Chevrolet moved a staggering 300,000 units, and that was despite long lines at the gas station and inflated oil prices! The Monte Carlo was a hit, once again! The Monte Carlo led the automobile industry with Intermediate sized car sales, closely followed by the Grand Prix. Other competition included the Mercury Cougar, the Chrysler Cordoba, the Ford Torino Elite, and even the redesigned Dodge Charger. But still, Monte Carlo outsold them all, even in a year that was tough on larger cars.

1974 Monte Carlo Rear

1974 Monte Carlo Interior

Tags: 1974 Monte Carlo, Second Generation Monte Carlo