The third generation Monte Carlos marked a departure from the Chevelle line and lighter, more economical "personal car" was created. This was the first time that a 6-cylinder motor had been available in the Monte Carlo. In 1980, a turbocharged V6 was available and could be identified by a bulge on the driver's side of the hood.
This generation was the lightest of all the rear wheel drive Montes, with one of the more interesting characteristics being a deck lid fabricated from aluminum, rather than the traditional steel.