An Unlikely Favorite from a Practical Mind
For decades, John Davis has been the trusted, pragmatic voice of MotorWeek. His reviews are grounded in real-world usability, family needs, and long-term value, making his personal automotive regrets particularly fascinating. Among the thousands of cars he has tested, one forgotten model stands out as the one he misses the most: not a flashy supercar, but the humble and innovative 1985 Chevrolet Celebrity Eurosport.
More Than Just a Sedan
Davis’s affection for the Celebrity Eurosport stems from its surprising blend of attributes. On the surface, it was a mainstream, front-wheel-drive family sedan. However, the Eurosport package endowed it with a firmer suspension, specific alloy wheels, and distinctive two-tone paint. Davis fondly recalls its balanced handling, comfortable interior for five, and the peppy performance from its fuel-injected V6 engine. It represented a era when General Motors was injecting sporty character into everyday transportation, a formula that resonated deeply with his practical yet enthusiast-oriented sensibilities.
A Legacy of Understated Excellence
The car’s significance lies in its embodiment of a now-rare automotive ideal: competent all-around performance without excessive cost or complexity. Davis laments that this philosophy has faded, overshadowed by today’s market extremes of basic appliances and highly specialized performance variants. The Celebrity Eurosport was a genuine do-it-all vehicle, capable of commuting, road trips, and even providing a little driving enjoyment on a back road. Its durability and straightforward mechanics are traits Davis associates with a bygone era of automotive design focused on owner satisfaction over fleeting trends.
John Davis’s nostalgia for the Chevrolet Celebrity Eurosport is a powerful reminder that the most memorable cars are often those that perfectly execute their intended mission. It underscores that true automotive gems are defined not by horsepower or prestige, but by their honest character and ability to deliver seamless, reliable service with a touch of unexpected flair.