Whether on the racetrack or on the road, the Chevrolet Monte Carlo has always stood for performance. Long known as the winningest nameplate in the history of NASCAR Winston Cup, the production models sleek, race-inspired looks and performance has earned it a spot as one of Chevrolets most venerable brands.
Now the 2002 Monte Carlo SS Dale Earnhardt Signature Edition is available for a limited time at select high-volume Monte Carlo dealers. The limited edition Monte Carlo, with a run of just 3,333 units, went into production in October 2001 and was to be made through March 2002.
Inspired by the legendary late Dale Earnhardt, one of the most respected and admired drivers and team owners in NASCAR history, the black production Monte Carlo SS High Sport is distinguished by a red racing stripe along the bottom and Galaxy Silver Metallic ground effects. Dale Earnhardts signature, the storied No. 3 and Intimidator script appear on the exterior and interior, including the decklid and dashboard. Red Chevy bowtie emblems are embroidered on the headrests, and No. 3 Intimidator script appears in pewter on the floor mats. Dale Earnhardts signature, the stylized No. 3 and the logo of team owner Richard Childress Racing are emblazoned on the speedometer.
"Dales magnificent NASCAR career earned him not only respect on the track but also many friends in daily life," said Kurt Ritter, Chevrolets general manager. "When we started discussing this project with him, he took it as an honor to have his legendary status commemorated with a such a special vehicle."
The special Dale Earnhardt edition was a vision that began in early 2000. But the program would not have continued without the insight, approval and contributions of Dales wife Teresa Earnhardt, the Earnhardt family and Richard Childress.
"Dale was proud to have had such a long-standing association with Chevrolet and the Richard Childress Racing organization," said Teresa Earnhardt. "I know that Dale would be pleased to know that this dream has been fulfilled." Chevrolet will make a donation from the sale of each Monte Carlo SS Dale Earnhardt Signature Edition to the Foundation for the Carolinas, a charity selected by the Earnhardt family.
Vehicle Highlights
Exterior:
* Black with Galaxy Silver Metallic ground effects and a traditional red perimeter racing stripe
* Intimidator graphic on the decklid
* Dales signature and famous stylized No. 3 racing graphic
* Richard Childress Racing (RCR) graphic on each ground effect, just behind the front rear wheel opening
Interior:
* Ebony seats with pewter leather seating surfaces
* Pewter door panel inserts
* Embroidered red bowtie for each front seat head restraint
* Floor mats with an embroidered stylized No. 3 and Intimidator graphic
* Instrument cluster with Dales signature, RCR logo and stylized No. 3 graphic
* Passenger-side instrument panel placard features the stylized No. 3 and Dales signature
* Special door opening kick plates feature the RCR logo
The Monte Carlo SS High Sport, on which the Dale Earnhardt edition is based, features:
* Award-winning 3800 V6 engine developing 200 horsepower
* Bright, stainless-steel dual exhaust outlets
* Sport suspension and four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and race-inspired front cooling ducts
* GM Accessory race-inspired rear spoiler and full-perimeter ground effects
* Diamond-cut 16-inch aluminum wheels and Goodyear Eagle RS-A performance tires
* Electronic Traction Control
* OnStar one-year Safety and Security service contract
* Heated, six-way power front Sport bucket seats
* Electrochromic (self-dimming) inside rearview mirror
* Electric sliding sunroof
* Dual power outside heated mirrors
* Leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio system and cruise controls