2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo

DETROIT —The all-new 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo offers customers the best of both worlds: sophisticated styling and heart-thumping performance. In fact, Monte Carlo has spent the past 24 years delivering this winning combination and the 2000 model exemplifies the very best of this forward thinking.

'We set out to create a new Monte Carlo that delights your senses and quickens your pulse,' said Kurt Ritter, Chevrolet's general manager. 'The new Monte Carlo is distinctive from everything else on the road in many ways, from dramatic new styling to interior design and technology, to its heart-pounding approach to the performance experience.'

Monte Carlo's dual personality is well known to buyers. The current 1999 model is the best-selling midsize coupe in America.

'Monte Carlo is a very distinctive, personal driving machine that surrounds you with performance in a premium environment,' said Ritter. 'We call it ‘classy with a wild streak.' It can be either, or both. The side you show the world is up to you.'

The new Monte Carlo is designed with our exclusive 4-point Driver Interface System™ that maximizes the driving experience between driver and machine. It includes such amenities as newly designed seats and a NASCAR-inspired instrument panel and gauge cluster. It also offers an impressive Total Performance System™ — a carefully engineered combination of vehicle components that inspire performance that's sure to please driving enthusiasts.

The new Monte Carlo is offered in LS and performance-oriented SS models. The LS comes standard with a 3400 SFI (Sequential Fuel Injection) V6 engine and the SS comes standard with the award winning, 3800 SFI V6 engine.

Styling that's 'Classy with a Wild Streak'

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and potential buyers gave the sleek and classy body of 2000 Monte Carlo a strong thumb's-up in customer clinics.

'Coupe buyers want a car that gets them noticed at the traffic lights,' said Don Parkinson, Monte Carlo brand manager. 'That's why Monte Carlo is such a great fit for the midsize coupe market. It's a car that you'll recognize instantly on the street, and our research tells us that's what customers want.'

At the same time, the 2000 Monte Carlo reflects its classic heritage with a long, sloping hood, short rear deck, athletic-stance, distinctive 'C' pillars and elegant interior trim characteristics that have long been the signature of the brand. Designers sculpted bold styling lines into Monte Carlo reminiscent of earlier models from the ‘70s and ‘80s. Along with distinctive headlamps and a modern spin-off of the ‘70s Monte Carlo taillamps, this new Monte Carlo delivers a sporty, aggressive look with strong overtones of sophistication.

Its NASCAR racing version inspired Monte Carlo's aggressive new sheet metal. Its hood, roof and decklid are the same ones that will be used on the new Monte Carlo race cars that run at speeds over two-hundred miles per hour at NASCAR tracks across the country. Racing had a major influence on the 2000 Monte Carlo bold appearance, and wind tunnel testing was a key part of the design process. The close appearance and authentic association allows each Monte Carlo owner to 'feel like a champion.'

'GM Motorsports was involved in the very early stages of Monte Carlo's development,' said Vehicle Line Executive, Gary White. 'Their input helped Monte Carlo achieve a look that is attractive and functional. It's a shape that works well on the street and on the racetrack.'

The Heart and Soul of a Champion

'The Monte Carlo name deserves great performance and a sporty driving experience,' said Chief Engineer Greg Bellopatrick. 'That's just what buyers want in a coupe and expect from Chevrolet.'

Monte Carlo embodies the spirit of its NASCARcounterpart; that spirit combined with the exclusive Total Performance System™ combine to offer the fun-to-drive performance that coupe buyers crave. This system consists of carefully engineered components that deliver an unparalleled combination of solid structure, excellent engine power and efficiency, and smooth ride and response.

Powertrain

Engine performance has been enhanced for the all-new Monte Carlo LS by a 3400 SFI V6 that delivers 180 horsepower — 20 more than the previously standard 3100 SFI V6. For even more power, the optional 3800 SFI V6 engine, standard on Monte Carlo SS, delivers 200 horsepower and 225 lb.-ft. of torque more torque than the competition. The 3800 V6 has appeared on Ward's Auto World list of 'Ten Best Engines' for three consecutive years. It offers ample torque for superb power and performance off the line.

Ride and Handling

The new car also features a wider front and rear track width than its predecessor and all its major competitors for excellent ride and stability. Its precise, sport coupe handling is attributed to a 4-wheel independent suspension, larger front-brake rotors than the previous model, standard 16' wheels and tires, and responsive steering. Monte Carlo SS features standard all-speed Traction Control, an impressive Sport Suspension and responsive performance tires, which provides handling.

Structure

Monte Carlo incorporates an aluminum engine cradle that provides a solid foundation for the powertrain, front suspension steering and front sheet metal. It is lightweight and strong and contributes to the overall satisfying Monte Carlo driving experience.

From the floor pan to the doors and roof, a significant reduction in noise and vibration was achieved by strengthening and stiffening major structural components. An engineering milestone in achieving these low levels of noise and vibration was the development of the MagBeam™, a magnesium beam that spans the width of the instrument panel and helps reduce vibration that can occur over time, especially in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) and audio systems. Attention to noise reduction eliminated the hissing sound that commonly occurs in an AC refrigerant system, and also contributed to improved window and door seals.

Comfort and Safety for Real Life

Monte Carlo represents a 'personal reward' for its owner with more than expected amenities.

Even though Monte Carlo offers the roominess of a luxury vehicle, it also lets drivers feel like they are behind the wheel of a race car: a prime example of its dual personality. The cockpit-style dash and ergonomically-designed driver's seat combine to surround the driver as if in a NASCAR race car, while also offering function and comfort in a luxurious environment. Monte Carlo's gauge cluster is both attractive and functional featuring a 'multi-layered' appearance. Its new seats were designed by a special Chevrolet Seat Comfort Team that analyzed dozens of competitive seat designs for strengths and weaknesses. The result: exceptional seating achieved by an elusive balance between long-term comfort and excellent lateral support.

Monte Carlo SS features uplevel Sport Cloth bucket seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a long list of standard features including:

• Separate driver and front-passenger temperature controls.

• Enhanced gauge package

• Cruise control

• Remote Keyless Entry



• Luggage area cargo net

• Rear decklid spoiler

• 16' sport aluminum wheels.

Even with its midsize exterior, Monte Carlo has up to seven additional cubic feet of interior space versus some competitors, allowing for a more comfortable, luxurious interior, more cargo room and roomy backseat. In fact, compared to non-GM vehicles, Monte Carlo offers one of the roomiest interiors and trunks in its segment.

Convenience features abound throughout Monte Carlo that just can't be found in any other competitor. To begin with, there's the message center that provides information on 17 important vehicle functions, like when the engine oil needs changing. Its new sound system incorporates Radio Data System (RDS) technology. This new technology, among other features, automatically changes the time on the radio clock at the push of a button when entering into a new time zone, and can interrupt normal broadcasting for weather or traffic bulletins.

When it comes to safety, Monte Carlo leaves very little to chance. Consider its comprehensive list of safety features:

• Monte Carlo meets 2003 model-year Federal standards for enhanced head-impact protection.

• Largest in class 4-wheel disc antilock brake system (ABS)

• Efficient use of heavier gauge steel enhances occupant protection without unnecessary weight

• Driver and right front-passenger air bags*

• Automatic Daytime Running Lamps

• Tire inflation monitor.

Other available features on Monte Carlo include include:

• All-speed Traction Control for better grip on slippery surfaces (standard on SS only)

• Electric sliding sunroof

• 6-way power driver seat

• 6-way power passenger seat

• Dual power heated outside rearview mirrors

• Driver and front- passenger heated seats

• Trap-resistant trunk kit (available as a dealer option)

• Chevy Quality, Reliability and Durability


'At the end of the day, none of our efforts would pay off if we couldn't deliver outstanding QRD (quality, reliability and dependability),' Parkinson §äid. 'In this business, a slick design may get you a small measure of success, but if you skimp on QRD, you'll ultimately pay for it in the marketplace. We won't fall into that trap.'

The new Monte Carlo will be built at GM's Oshawa, Ontario, manufacturing facility the #1-rated midsize assembly plant for initial product quality.

A one-piece stamping is used to form the door ring and rear quarter panel. This eliminates welds, lowers vehicle weight and enhances fit and finish. And the aluminum engine cradle stiffer and more corrosion-resistant than a steel component allows for better front-end sheet metal fits as well as reducing the negative effects of twisting and shake over time.

Added floorboard reinforcements, tied into the rocker panels, provide further protection against the vehicle-aging process. And two-sided galvanized steel on all body panels (except the roof) provides excellent corrosion protection, and a four-step basecoat/clearcoat paint process is used to protect against the ravages of sun and acid rain.

Monte Carlo also boasts a simplified electrical system that features multiplexing technology that reduces the number of wires and the number of connections, thus reducing the potential for something to go wrong. And an optional Driver Information Convenience Center that includes HomeLink garage door opener, a trip computer, outside temperature and compass and anti-theft alarm system.

'When you sum it up,' Parkinson said, 'we've managed to capture all of the attributes that have made the Monte Carlo a great car over the years, in a way that today's customers want. It's a great blend of past, present and future and we're very proud of it.'

Living Úp to its Name

2000 Monte Carlo made history on May 30, 1999, as the first car to pace two prestigious races in one day: the Indy 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and the Coca-Cola 600 NASCAR race at Lowe's Motor Speedway in Charlotte, North Carolina. Driving the Monte Carlo pace car at the Indy 500 was comedian Jay Leno, host of NBC's Emmy-winning and top-rated 'The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.' At the Coca-Cola 600 NASCARrace, it was racing legend and a top NASCAR team owner Richard Childress driving the Monte Carlo pace car. The Monte Carlo pace car is scheduled to pace 12 prestigious events from March to November at top races across the country.

Monte Carlo owners have always been a different breed of drivers. They enjoy their car and the total driving experience, and this all-new Monte Carlo will certainly satisfy their need for a sophisticated ride with a wild streak for fun and performance.

'We created the new Monte Carlo in the original spirit of the brand,' said Parkinson. 'It truly is classy with a wild streak.' Whether your passion is distinctive looks or spirited performance, Monte Carlo is designed to unleash the driving aficionado in all of us.'

Source - GM Corporation

WHAT'S NEW AND HIGHLIGHTS

The 2000 Monte Carlo is all-new, from its stunning new shape down to the brake rotors. Following are only a few of its new features:

Interior
• Newly designed interior with 4-point Driver Interface System™
• Driver Message Center and NASCAR-inspired gauge cluster
• Steering wheel controls for the audio and speed control systems (standard on Monte Carlo SS and optional on Monte Carlo LS)
• Seats feature exceptional comfort and support.

Safety and Security
TheftLock audio theft-deterrent system
Tire pressure monitoring system (standard on both models)
Traction Control (standard on SS, not available on LS).
Engine

3400 V6 (standard in Monte Carlo LS)
3800 V6 (standard in Monte Carlo SS)
New extruded aluminum engine cradle.

Source - Chevrolet