1979 Chevrolet Caprice Estate

The gauge cluster was offered even before downsizing as early as '75/76.

 

Oh sorry, guess I wasn't clear. Yes, JWDTENN that's right. In fact, the image you posted is what my '75 CE had. I was referring to the four circles that are appearing in this '79's ad. That design also had a fuel economy gauge, but I thought that came out in the early-mid '80's.

Thanks for the trip down memory lane though....I sure miss my '75!

 

The redesigned gauge cluster for the downsized Caprice/Impala was available from 1977 on.

 

Ah! That answers my question! Below is what I was picturing from circa 1983:

 

I think the Fuel Economy Gauge worked off of engine vacuum did it not?

 

Yes I believe it did.

 

That was awhile go and wasn't sure if I remembered that right. Fuel saving Gimmicks of the day! Kind of like leaned out carbs.

 

Such "gimmicks" continue today. My '15 Malibu (as do many cars today) has the same thing but in digital format: "Instant mpg".

 

Returning to our regularly scheduled program.....

This still appears to be for sale.

 

Modest price drop.

http://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/cto/5373818709.html

 

Sold? Ad is gone. This was a super nice looking '79 Caprice Estate. Hope it found a worthy home.

 

Back again. This is a clean looking CE wagon. Mileage still not listed, but we see the cargo area, and looks as pristine as the rest.

https://portland.craigslist.org/clk/cto/5562803210.html

 

Looks great.