Description
The Chevrolet Caprice 5.7 Taxi holds a unique and practical place in the model’s long and varied history. While the Caprice is best known for its roles as a family sedan, police cruiser, and luxury full-size car, it also became a staple in taxi fleets across North America—particularly in the 1980s and 1990s. The 5.7-liter (350 cubic inch) V8-equipped Caprice offered the ideal combination of durability, comfort, and performance for the demanding world of commercial transport.
By the late 1980s and into the 1990s, the Chevrolet Caprice had become a dominant force in fleet service. The 5.7-liter V8, available in certain models, was known for its strong low-end torque, long service life, and relatively simple maintenance—qualities that made it especially appealing to taxi operators. While not designed as a high-performance engine, the 5.7 offered enough power to handle constant city driving, heavy loads, and extended idling without breaking a sweat.
The Caprice’s full-size body-on-frame construction made it ideal for commercial use. Its spacious interior allowed for generous passenger legroom and comfortable bench seating—ideal for long rides or multiple fares. The wide trunk could easily accommodate luggage, groceries, or even mobility aids, making it a practical choice for airport runs and city pickups alike.
Many taxi-spec Caprices came equipped with heavy-duty cooling systems, reinforced suspension, and upgraded electrical components to withstand the rigors of fleet operation. Interiors were typically outfitted in easy-to-clean vinyl or cloth materials, and while they weren’t overly luxurious, they were functional and built to last.
The 1991 redesign of the Caprice, with its more rounded “aero” body style, was met with mixed reviews at the time but helped maintain the model’s popularity in fleet markets. The 5.7-liter engine remained an option into the mid-1990s, particularly in police and taxi packages, before GM began phasing out rear-wheel-drive full-size sedans in favor of more modern front-wheel-drive platforms.
Despite their utilitarian image, Caprice taxis earned a reputation for being nearly indestructible. Many saw service well past 200,000 miles, with only routine maintenance and the occasional transmission rebuild. Their longevity and ease of repair made them a favorite not just among taxi companies, but also among used car buyers looking for a reliable, budget-friendly vehicle.
Today, surviving examples of the Chevrolet Caprice 5.7 Taxi are becoming increasingly rare. Some enthusiasts restore them as retro fleet vehicles, while others appreciate them as tough, comfortable cruisers from a bygone era of big American sedans. Whether you remember riding in one, hailing one down, or driving one yourself, the Caprice 5.7 Taxi remains an enduring symbol of practical, full-size American motoring.