The 1990 Chevrolet Caprice represents the final year of its "boxy" third-generation, full-size B-body sedan. With model years spanning from 1977 to 1990 for this iteration, it was available in Base, Classic, and Classic Brougham trims, with new prices ranging from approximately $14,000 to $18,000. It stood out for its immense interior space, plush ride, robust V8 options, and reputation as a durable, comfortable American family car and fleet vehicle.
The Good
Key advantages include its renowned reliability and simple, durable mechanicals, particularly the V8 engines. It offers exceptional comfort with a plush ride and a cavernous interior, appealing to practical families. Emotionally, its classic "box" design evokes nostalgia, while its long-term value and ease of maintenance make it a smart, economical choice.
The Bad
Known weaknesses include its modest fuel economy, especially with the V8 engines, and potentially underwhelming braking performance for its size. Age-related issues like rust on body panels, degrading interior plastics, and wear in steering/suspension components are also common points to watch out for in a vehicle of this vintage.
1990 Chevrolet Caprice: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- Standard: 4.3L V6 (LV1) TBI
- Optional: 5.0L (305 ci) V8 (LO3) TBI
- Optional: 5.7L (350 ci) V8 (L05) TBI (more common in police/heavy-duty applications) - Horsepower:
- 4.3L V6: Approximately 140 hp
- 5.0L V8: Approximately 170 hp
- 5.7L V8: Approximately 190 hp - Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates):
- V6: Around 17 MPG city / 25 MPG highway
- V8: Around 15 MPG city / 22 MPG highway (varies greatly with driving conditions and maintenance) - 0-60 MPH Times:
- V6: Approximately 11-12 seconds
- V8: Approximately 9-10 seconds (These are rough estimates for a large sedan of this era) - Towing Capacity:
- Typically 2,000 - 5,000 lbs, depending on engine, axle ratio, and the presence of a factory towing package with appropriate equipment. - Trim-Level Features:
- Base Caprice: Featured cloth bench seating, AM/FM radio, basic instrumentation, and often came with manual windows and locks (though power options were frequently added). Steel wheels with hubcaps were standard.
- Caprice Classic: Enhanced with standard power windows, power door locks, cruise control, air conditioning, upgraded velour upholstery, and full wheel covers. It also included a power driver's seat and more refined interior trim.
- Caprice Classic Brougham: The top-tier luxury trim, boasting plusher velour or optional leatherette upholstery, deluxe sound systems, additional chrome exterior accents, unique badging, and often a padded vinyl roof. Features like a tilt steering wheel, rear defogger, and a more comprehensive dashboard were common. The larger V8 engine was often standard or a popular option. Many comfort and convenience items were available across all trims as individual options, such as anti-lock brakes (ABS), premium sound, and alloy wheels. Police (9C1) and taxi (9C6) packages offered heavy-duty components and specialized interiors.
1990 Chevrolet Caprice Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1990 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Caprice |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | LAKEWOOD HEIGHTS |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.0 L 8-Cyl. |
| Engine Size | 5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 1990 Chevrolet Caprice Have?
The 1990 Chevrolet Caprice, while known for its robust nature, has several frequently reported problems stemming largely from its age and design. A common concern is the transmission, specifically the 4L60 (or earlier 700R4) automatic, which can exhibit slipping, delayed shifts, or eventual failure if not regularly serviced. Engine oil leaks are prevalent, with gaskets and seals on the 5.0L and 5.7L V8s drying out and leaking from areas like valve covers or the oil pan. The cooling system components, including the radiator, water pump, and hoses, are susceptible to age-related failure and corrosion, potentially leading to overheating if not maintained.
Brake system issues, such as spongy pedals or premature wear, are sometimes reported, especially on models without ABS or with rear drum brakes. Over time, steering and suspension components like ball joints, tie rods, and bushings wear out, contributing to loose steering and clunking noises. Minor electrical issues, such as power window motor failures or intermittent gauge readings, can also arise as wiring ages. Perhaps the most significant long-term reliability concern is rust, which commonly affects rocker panels, wheel wells, door bottoms, and the frame, particularly in regions that use road salt.
Regarding recalls, the 1990 Caprice had a few, typically minor. For instance, some vehicles were recalled for issues with seat belt retractors, brake lamp switches, or steering column components. There were also recalls concerning potential fuel tank leakage in rear-end collisions. While comprehensive NHTSA crash data is less standardized for this era, the driver's side airbag, newly standard in 1990, significantly improved frontal impact protection for the driver. Overall, the Caprice's core mechanicals are highly durable, with most "problems" being typical wear-and-tear items for a vehicle of its age, easily addressable due to widespread parts availability.
Brake system issues, such as spongy pedals or premature wear, are sometimes reported, especially on models without ABS or with rear drum brakes. Over time, steering and suspension components like ball joints, tie rods, and bushings wear out, contributing to loose steering and clunking noises. Minor electrical issues, such as power window motor failures or intermittent gauge readings, can also arise as wiring ages. Perhaps the most significant long-term reliability concern is rust, which commonly affects rocker panels, wheel wells, door bottoms, and the frame, particularly in regions that use road salt.
Regarding recalls, the 1990 Caprice had a few, typically minor. For instance, some vehicles were recalled for issues with seat belt retractors, brake lamp switches, or steering column components. There were also recalls concerning potential fuel tank leakage in rear-end collisions. While comprehensive NHTSA crash data is less standardized for this era, the driver's side airbag, newly standard in 1990, significantly improved frontal impact protection for the driver. Overall, the Caprice's core mechanicals are highly durable, with most "problems" being typical wear-and-tear items for a vehicle of its age, easily addressable due to widespread parts availability.
How long will the 1990 Chevrolet Caprice last?
With diligent maintenance, a 1990 Chevrolet Caprice can achieve remarkable longevity, easily reaching 200,000 to 250,000 miles or more. It's not uncommon to find well-preserved examples still on the road today, demonstrating over 30 years of service. Its long-term durability is a testament to its robust body-on-frame construction and the sturdy, generally under-stressed V8 engines, which are known to be workhorses.
However, weaknesses emerge with time. Rubber components like bushings, hoses, and seals will degrade, requiring replacement. The automatic transmission, while tough, may eventually need rebuilding at higher mileages. Electrical wiring can become brittle, leading to minor gremlins. Most significantly, rust is an ongoing battle, especially in areas exposed to road salt, affecting body panels and structural components. Despite these age-related issues, the core mechanicals remain exceptionally resilient, making it a viable long-term vehicle for those committed to basic upkeep.
However, weaknesses emerge with time. Rubber components like bushings, hoses, and seals will degrade, requiring replacement. The automatic transmission, while tough, may eventually need rebuilding at higher mileages. Electrical wiring can become brittle, leading to minor gremlins. Most significantly, rust is an ongoing battle, especially in areas exposed to road salt, affecting body panels and structural components. Despite these age-related issues, the core mechanicals remain exceptionally resilient, making it a viable long-term vehicle for those committed to basic upkeep.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1990 Chevrolet Caprice, reflecting its era, offered a relatively straightforward array of built-in tech and entertainment features. Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM radio, with optional upgrades to an AM/FM cassette player and, for higher trims, a premium sound system with additional speakers and potentially a power antenna. Climate control was predominantly manual, although air conditioning was either standard or a widely chosen option across most models. Digital instrumentation, while present in some contemporary GM vehicles, was less common in the Caprice, which largely retained traditional analog gauges, prioritizing simplicity and proven reliability.
Driver-assistance features, as understood in modern vehicles, were virtually non-existent. The most advanced "assistance" provided would have been cruise control, standard on upscale trims and optional elsewhere, alongside standard power steering and power brakes designed to ease the driving experience of a large vehicle. Sophisticated systems like lane keeping or adaptive cruise control were still decades away from mainstream adoption.
In terms of safety features, the 1990 Caprice included three-point seatbelts for front outboard occupants and lap belts for rear passengers. A significant safety enhancement for the 1990 model year was the introduction of a driver's side airbag as standard, a leading feature for a full-size American sedan at the time. A passenger airbag, however, was not available. Side-impact protection primarily relied on the car's robust body-on-frame construction. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were offered as an important optional safety feature, improving control during emergency braking maneuvers.
Formalized crash-test ratings from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS are largely unavailable or not directly comparable to modern standards for vehicles from 1990. While the Caprice's substantial size and sturdy construction generally offered a degree of passive safety, specific, publicly accessible crash-test scores for this particular model year are difficult to find, as testing methodologies and reporting were less comprehensive than today's. The inclusion of the driver-side airbag was a notable step forward in occupant protection for its time.
Driver-assistance features, as understood in modern vehicles, were virtually non-existent. The most advanced "assistance" provided would have been cruise control, standard on upscale trims and optional elsewhere, alongside standard power steering and power brakes designed to ease the driving experience of a large vehicle. Sophisticated systems like lane keeping or adaptive cruise control were still decades away from mainstream adoption.
In terms of safety features, the 1990 Caprice included three-point seatbelts for front outboard occupants and lap belts for rear passengers. A significant safety enhancement for the 1990 model year was the introduction of a driver's side airbag as standard, a leading feature for a full-size American sedan at the time. A passenger airbag, however, was not available. Side-impact protection primarily relied on the car's robust body-on-frame construction. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were offered as an important optional safety feature, improving control during emergency braking maneuvers.
Formalized crash-test ratings from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS are largely unavailable or not directly comparable to modern standards for vehicles from 1990. While the Caprice's substantial size and sturdy construction generally offered a degree of passive safety, specific, publicly accessible crash-test scores for this particular model year are difficult to find, as testing methodologies and reporting were less comprehensive than today's. The inclusion of the driver-side airbag was a notable step forward in occupant protection for its time.
What Colors Options are Available?
We’re working on this section!
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1990 Chevrolet Caprice Prices and Market Value
When new in 1990, the Chevrolet Caprice carried a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) typically ranging from around $14,000 for a base model to over $18,000 for a Classic Brougham, with well-optioned examples potentially exceeding $20,000.
Today, its current used market price varies significantly. A daily driver in fair condition might sell for $1,500 to $5,000. Pristine, low-mileage, or highly original examples (especially Classic Broughams or 9C1 police models) can command $8,000 to $15,000 or more to collectors. Depreciation is no longer a factor; instead, value is driven by collectibility and condition. Factors affecting resale value include the absence of rust, mechanical soundness, originality, interior condition (especially the dashboard and seats), engine type (V8s are preferred), and documented maintenance. Low mileage and unique history can also substantially increase its appeal and price.
Today, its current used market price varies significantly. A daily driver in fair condition might sell for $1,500 to $5,000. Pristine, low-mileage, or highly original examples (especially Classic Broughams or 9C1 police models) can command $8,000 to $15,000 or more to collectors. Depreciation is no longer a factor; instead, value is driven by collectibility and condition. Factors affecting resale value include the absence of rust, mechanical soundness, originality, interior condition (especially the dashboard and seats), engine type (V8s are preferred), and documented maintenance. Low mileage and unique history can also substantially increase its appeal and price.
1990 Chevrolet Caprice Cost of Ownership
Insurance for a 1990 Caprice is generally very affordable due to its age and low replacement value; classic car insurance is an option for non-daily drivers. Fuel costs are a primary expense, as its V8 engines are not fuel-efficient by modern standards, typically returning 15-22 MPG. Maintenance and repairs are relatively inexpensive because parts are widely available, and the vehicle's mechanical simplicity makes it easy for most mechanics to work on. Routine service is cheap, and even major component replacements, while requiring an upfront cost, don't involve exotic parts.
Overall, the 1990 Chevrolet Caprice is an economical vehicle to own in the long term, assuming a reasonable purchase price. Its low insurance and maintenance costs, combined with DIY-friendly repairs, often offset its higher fuel consumption, making it a budget-friendly option for many.
Overall, the 1990 Chevrolet Caprice is an economical vehicle to own in the long term, assuming a reasonable purchase price. Its low insurance and maintenance costs, combined with DIY-friendly repairs, often offset its higher fuel consumption, making it a budget-friendly option for many.
1990 Chevrolet Caprice Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1990 Chevrolet Caprice Insurance
Insurance for a 1990 Chevrolet Caprice is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1990 Chevrolet Caprice Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1990 Chevrolet Caprice competed primarily with its Ford counterparts, the Ford LTD Crown Victoria and Mercury Grand Marquis, in the full-size, rear-wheel-drive American sedan segment. The Dodge Diplomat/Plymouth Gran Fury were also in this class but represented an older design nearing its end.
In terms of Performance, the Caprice with its optional 5.0L or 5.7L V8 offered smooth, comfortable power for cruising, largely on par with the Ford Crown Victoria's 5.0L V8. Neither was built for outright speed, but both provided ample torque for daily driving and highway merges. The M-body Mopar offerings (Diplomat/Gran Fury) often felt less refined and powerful, despite their 5.2L V8.
Regarding Features, the Caprice and its Ford rivals were closely matched, focusing on comfort and convenience. All offered power windows, locks, air conditioning, and cruise control in higher trims. A key differentiator for the 1990 Caprice was the standard driver's side airbag, a significant safety advancement for the time, which the Ford rivals did not universally offer until later models. Interiors were spacious and functional across the board.
Reliability is a strong suit for both the Caprice and the Ford Panther platform cars. The Caprice's TBI V8 engines (LO3/L05) and 700R4/4L60 transmission are known for their durability and ease of maintenance, capable of very high mileage with proper care. The Ford 5.0L V8 and AOD transmission in the Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis are similarly robust and well-regarded. Both platforms benefit from simple mechanics and widely available parts, making them excellent choices for long-term ownership. The older M-body Mopars were generally less robust by 1990 standards.
Price when new was competitive among the Caprice and Ford models, generally in the $14,000 to $20,000 range. Today, used prices for all these vehicles are very similar, heavily dependent on condition, mileage, and historical significance rather than initial brand.
Recommendations: The 1990 Chevrolet Caprice is an excellent choice for those seeking a traditional American full-size sedan. If you're considering alternatives, the **Ford LTD Crown Victoria** or **Mercury Grand Marquis** from the late 1980s to early 1990s are very similar in terms of driving experience, reliability, and ownership costs. The choice often comes down to personal aesthetic preference or which specific example is found in better condition. For a slightly more modern, yet still RWD V8 experience, consider the "bubble" body Caprice (1991-1996) or the redesigned Panther platform cars (1992+) with the 4.6L Modular V8, but for a 1990 model year comparison, the Caprice holds its own against its equally dependable Ford counterparts.
In terms of Performance, the Caprice with its optional 5.0L or 5.7L V8 offered smooth, comfortable power for cruising, largely on par with the Ford Crown Victoria's 5.0L V8. Neither was built for outright speed, but both provided ample torque for daily driving and highway merges. The M-body Mopar offerings (Diplomat/Gran Fury) often felt less refined and powerful, despite their 5.2L V8.
Regarding Features, the Caprice and its Ford rivals were closely matched, focusing on comfort and convenience. All offered power windows, locks, air conditioning, and cruise control in higher trims. A key differentiator for the 1990 Caprice was the standard driver's side airbag, a significant safety advancement for the time, which the Ford rivals did not universally offer until later models. Interiors were spacious and functional across the board.
Reliability is a strong suit for both the Caprice and the Ford Panther platform cars. The Caprice's TBI V8 engines (LO3/L05) and 700R4/4L60 transmission are known for their durability and ease of maintenance, capable of very high mileage with proper care. The Ford 5.0L V8 and AOD transmission in the Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis are similarly robust and well-regarded. Both platforms benefit from simple mechanics and widely available parts, making them excellent choices for long-term ownership. The older M-body Mopars were generally less robust by 1990 standards.
Price when new was competitive among the Caprice and Ford models, generally in the $14,000 to $20,000 range. Today, used prices for all these vehicles are very similar, heavily dependent on condition, mileage, and historical significance rather than initial brand.
Recommendations: The 1990 Chevrolet Caprice is an excellent choice for those seeking a traditional American full-size sedan. If you're considering alternatives, the **Ford LTD Crown Victoria** or **Mercury Grand Marquis** from the late 1980s to early 1990s are very similar in terms of driving experience, reliability, and ownership costs. The choice often comes down to personal aesthetic preference or which specific example is found in better condition. For a slightly more modern, yet still RWD V8 experience, consider the "bubble" body Caprice (1991-1996) or the redesigned Panther platform cars (1992+) with the 4.6L Modular V8, but for a 1990 model year comparison, the Caprice holds its own against its equally dependable Ford counterparts.
Final Verdict: Is the 1990 Chevrolet Caprice a Good Sedan?
The 1990 Chevrolet Caprice is ideal for individuals who appreciate classic American full-size comfort, robust simplicity, and spacious interiors. It's perfect for enthusiasts, budget-conscious buyers needing a reliable large vehicle, or anyone seeking a comfortable cruiser for road trips without modern complexities. This vehicle is absolutely worth buying, but exclusively as a **used vehicle** today, as new examples are obviously no longer available.
When considering a purchase, focus on a well-maintained example with minimal rust, especially in the undercarriage and body panels. Opting for a model with the 5.0L (LO3) or 5.7L (L05) V8 engine is highly recommended for better performance and durability compared to the V6. Trims like the Classic or Classic Brougham offer more amenities. It's an excellent choice for those who value low running costs (excluding fuel), ease of repair, and a traditional driving feel, but are prepared for older technology, lower fuel economy, and the potential need for age-related maintenance items. It's not for those seeking cutting-edge safety, high performance, or modern tech.
When considering a purchase, focus on a well-maintained example with minimal rust, especially in the undercarriage and body panels. Opting for a model with the 5.0L (LO3) or 5.7L (L05) V8 engine is highly recommended for better performance and durability compared to the V6. Trims like the Classic or Classic Brougham offer more amenities. It's an excellent choice for those who value low running costs (excluding fuel), ease of repair, and a traditional driving feel, but are prepared for older technology, lower fuel economy, and the potential need for age-related maintenance items. It's not for those seeking cutting-edge safety, high performance, or modern tech.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.