Chevrolet Beretta: Price, Mileage, Features, Specs, Variants, Engine, Interior, History & More

Brief Introduction of Chevrolet Beretta

The Chevrolet Beretta is a front-wheel-drive coupe that was produced by Chevrolet for a single generation from the 1987 to 1996 model years. Designed in the same studio as the contemporary Camaro and Corvette, the Beretta was positioned as a sporty compact coupe, slotting between the Cavalier and the Lumina/Monte Carlo in Chevrolet’s lineup. It was built on the GM L-body platform, which it shared with its four-door sedan sibling, the Chevrolet Corsica. The Beretta was notable for its stylish, aerodynamic design, which included distinctive vertical door handles mounted on the B-pillar. Throughout its production run, it was offered in a variety of trims, from the economical base models to the performance-oriented GT, GTZ, and Z26 variants, making it a noteworthy and popular choice in the sporty coupe market of its time. Over 900,000 units were sold during its nine-year lifecycle.

Chevrolet Beretta Overview

Generations and History of Chevrolet Beretta

First Generation (1987-1996)

The Chevrolet Beretta was produced for a single generation, debuting for the 1987 model year. It was initially introduced quietly, with the first models sold to rental agencies and for fleet use before its official public launch. Designed as a sporty coupe, it featured an aerodynamic body and was built on the front-wheel-drive GM L-body platform. The initial base models were equipped with a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, with a 2.8L V6 offered as an option for more performance. The design, penned in the same studio as the Camaro and Corvette, was a key selling point, offering a modern and aggressive look to the compact coupe segment. The Beretta’s unique flush, vertical door handles located on the C-pillar were a distinctive styling cue. Throughout its history, the Beretta saw the introduction of several performance-oriented models that became popular with enthusiasts.

The model is now discontinued, with the last Beretta rolling off the assembly line on July 30, 1996. Sales had declined in its final years as the market shifted away from two-door coupes. There are no currently available versions, though there is occasional online speculation about a modern revival.

Chevrolet Beretta Facelifts and Yearly Updates

Chevrolet Beretta Variants and Features

The Beretta was offered in several distinct variants throughout its production run:

• Base/CL: The standard model, equipped with a 4-cylinder engine and focused on value and fuel economy. Standard features were basic for the era, but included amenities like AM/FM radio and cloth bucket seats.
• GT: A sportier version introduced in 1988, the GT came standard with a V6 engine (initially 2.8L, later 3.1L), sport cloth interior, a sport steering wheel, and an upgraded suspension package.
• GTU: A limited-edition model available in 1988 and 1989, the GTU was an appearance and handling package built upon the GT. It featured an aggressive body kit, a rear spoiler, 16-inch aluminum wheels, and the high-performance FE7 suspension, which provided excellent handling.
• Indy: A cosmetic package offered in 1990 to celebrate the Beretta pacing the Indianapolis 500. Available in distinctive turquoise or yellow paint, it featured unique exterior decals, body-colored side moldings and wheel inserts, and a special interior with “Indy” logos on the headrests.
• GTZ: The top performance model from 1990 to 1993, the GTZ replaced the GTU. It was equipped with the high-output 2.3L DOHC ‘Quad 4’ engine producing 180 hp, a Getrag 5-speed manual transmission, and the FE7 performance suspension. The GTZ was praised for its acceleration and handling, though the Quad 4 engine was noted for being noisy.
• Z26: Introduced in 1994 to replace both the GT and GTZ, the Z26 served as the sole sporty model for the Beretta’s final years. It was available with the updated 3100 V6 engine, offering a good balance of performance and comfort. It featured styling cues from the GTZ, including a rear spoiler and 16-inch alloy wheels.

Interior amenities were typical for a compact car of the era. The 1991 interior update brought a more driver-focused cockpit with a new dashboard and a driver-side airbag. Optional features on various trims included power windows and locks, cruise control, and an upgraded stereo system. The rear seating was typical for a compact coupe, being somewhat tight for adults.

Chevrolet Beretta Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience

The Beretta’s performance varied significantly across its range of powertrains. Base models with the 2.0L and later 2.2L 4-cylinder engines offered adequate acceleration and prioritized fuel economy. The driving experience in these models was generally comfortable, though handling was not their primary focus.

The V6-powered GT and later Z26 models provided a significant step up in performance. The 2.8L V6 initially produced 125 hp, which was later increased to around 135 hp. The upgrade to the 3.1L V6 brought horsepower to 140 hp, and the final 3100 V6 in the Z26 produced a healthy 160 hp. These models offered brisk acceleration for the time, with 0-60 mph times in the 8-9 second range. The V6 engines were known for their torque and smooth power delivery.

The pinnacle of Beretta performance was the GTZ. Its 2.3L ‘Quad 4’ DOHC engine produced 180 hp, allowing the GTZ to accelerate from 0-60 mph in about 7.6 seconds. Paired with a Getrag 5-speed manual transmission and the FE7 performance suspension, the GTZ was a capable handler, with one publication noting it posted one of the fastest slalom speeds of any front-wheel-drive car they had tested. The suspension on performance models like the GTU and GTZ was significantly stiffer, providing a much more engaging driving experience with less body roll, though at the expense of some ride comfort.

Chevrolet Beretta Pricing and Mileage

When new, the Chevrolet Beretta was positioned as an affordable sporty coupe. Original Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) varied by year and trim level. For example, in 1990, the base model started around $10,745, while the high-performance GTZ was priced from $14,175. By its final year in 1996, the base coupe had an MSRP of about $14,545, and the top-tier Z26 started at $17,190.

Fuel efficiency was a strong point for the 4-cylinder models, making them economical to run. The V6 models offered a reasonable balance of performance and economy. According to EPA estimates and real-world data from owners, combined mileage for the various powertrains typically ranged from 21 to 26 miles per gallon. For example, a 1996 Beretta with the V6 engine had an EPA rating of 18 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The average annual maintenance cost for a Chevrolet Beretta is estimated to be around $392, which is competitive for its class.

Chevrolet Beretta Colors, Design, and Dimensions

The exterior design of the Beretta was one of its main attractions, featuring a sleek, aerodynamic profile that was considered modern and aggressive for its time. A distinctive feature was the flush-mounted vertical door handles integrated into the rear of the door frame. The car was available in a wide range of colors over its production run, including solids like Black, Arctic White, and Bright Red, as well as various metallic finishes such as Gunmetal Metallic, Dark Cherry Metallic, Mystic Teal Metallic, and Light Sandrift Metallic. The Indy pace car replicas were offered in exclusive Turquoise and Yellow exterior colors.

The interior was redesigned in 1991 to be more ergonomic and to accommodate a driver-side airbag. The dashboard layout was driver-focused, though some reviewers over the years found the styling of the interior materials to be heavy-handed. Performance models like the GT, GTZ, and Z26 featured sport bucket seats and a sport steering wheel.

In terms of dimensions, the Beretta was a compact coupe. It rode on a 103.4-inch wheelbase and had an overall length of 187.2 inches. Its width was approximately 68 inches, and its height was around 53 inches, giving it a low-slung, sporty stance. Ground clearance information is not widely published. Wheel sizes ranged from 14-inch steel wheels on base models to 15-inch and 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels on the performance trims.

Chevrolet Beretta Safety Features

Safety features on the Chevrolet Beretta evolved over its production life. Key safety advancements included:

• Airbags: A driver-side airbag was introduced as a standard feature starting with the 1991 model year, which also brought a redesigned dashboard and steering wheel. Passenger-side airbags were not offered.
• ABS / EBD: Anti-lock brakes (ABS) became standard on all Beretta models starting in 1992, enhancing braking performance and vehicle control during emergency stops.
• Electronic Stability Control: Electronic Stability Control was not available on the Chevrolet Beretta, as the technology was not common on consumer vehicles during its production era.
• Crash Test Ratings: There are no official crash test ratings for the Chevrolet Beretta from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This is common for many vehicles from this time period.
• Other advanced safety systems: For its final years, the Beretta featured door-mounted seat belts. In 1995, it became one of the first Chevrolet models to offer daytime running lights as a standard feature.

Chevrolet Beretta Infotainment and Connectivity

The infotainment and connectivity options in the Chevrolet Beretta were representative of the technology available in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The systems were simple and functional by modern standards. Standard equipment typically included an AM/FM radio, with a cassette player available as a common upgrade. Higher trim levels sometimes offered more advanced sound systems with graphic equalizers. A digital instrument cluster was a feature on certain models like the Indy. Technologies such as touchscreens, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, Bluetooth, USB ports, and wireless charging were not available during the Beretta’s production run.

Chevrolet Beretta Owner Reviews & Ratings

Owner reviews for the Chevrolet Beretta are generally mixed, reflecting the car’s age. Many owners praise its stylish design, with the sporty appearance being a frequently mentioned pro. The V6 models, particularly the 3.1L, are often commended for their reliability and decent performance, with some owners reporting their cars lasting well over 200,000 miles with regular maintenance. The Beretta is also seen as a good value, being an affordable and fun car, especially for first-time buyers or those on a budget.

Common complaints often revolve around the interior quality, with some owners noting that materials like the dashboard and seat fabric do not hold up well over time. The performance of the base 4-cylinder models is considered adequate at best. Reliability can be a concern, with some of the most frequently reported problems including leaking water pumps, failure of the ignition module or crankshaft position sensor, and head gasket issues on the V6 engines. The high-output Quad 4 engine in the GTZ, while powerful, was known for being noisy and having its own set of reliability issues.

Chevrolet Beretta Comparison with Similar Cars

During its time, the Chevrolet Beretta competed in a crowded market of sporty front-wheel-drive coupes. Its main rivals included the Ford Probe, Dodge Daytona, and Plymouth Laser.

• Ford Probe: The Probe, especially in its second generation, offered a sleek, rounded design and was praised for its sharp handling, particularly in the V6-powered GT models. Compared to the Beretta, the Probe was often seen as a more modern and refined driver’s car, but the Beretta’s V6 options provided competitive straight-line performance.
• Dodge Daytona: The Daytona had a longer production run and offered a variety of powertrain options, including turbocharged 4-cylinder engines that delivered strong performance. The Daytona had a more angular, muscle-car-inspired design compared to the Beretta’s smoother lines. Both cars offered a similar value proposition of affordable performance.
• Plymouth Laser/Mitsubishi Eclipse/Eagle Talon: These “Diamond-Star” coupes were formidable competitors, especially in their turbocharged, all-wheel-drive configurations. They offered superior acceleration and handling to most Beretta models, but also came with a higher price tag and potentially more complex maintenance. The Beretta, in comparison, was a simpler and often more affordable option.

Overall, the Beretta held its own by offering a blend of stylish looks, a comfortable ride in its non-performance trims, and the availability of a smooth and torquey V6 engine, all at a competitive price.

Chevrolet Beretta Awards and Recognition

While the Chevrolet Beretta was a popular car, information about specific major awards it received is not widely documented. However, it did achieve some notable recognition:

• Indianapolis 500 Pace Car: The Beretta was selected as the official pace car for the 1990 Indianapolis 500, a prestigious honor in the automotive world.
• Motorsport Success: A specially prepared Chevrolet Beretta won the Trans Am Series championship in 1990, showcasing the performance potential of the platform.

Interesting Facts about Chevrolet Beretta

• Trademark Dispute: General Motors was sued by the Italian firearms manufacturer Beretta for trademark infringement over the use of the name. The lawsuit was settled out of court in 1989. As part of the settlement, GM donated $500,000 to a Beretta-sponsored charity, and the two companies exchanged symbolic gifts: a Beretta GTU coupe and a pair of Beretta shotguns.
• Convertible That Never Was: A convertible version of the Beretta was developed and slated to be the actual 1990 Indy 500 pace car. Several prototypes were built and shown, but the convertible never made it to mass production due to unresolved structural rigidity issues. The pace car replicas sold to the public were all coupes.
• Designed with Legends: The Beretta’s exterior was styled in Chevrolet’s Exterior Studio 3, the same design studio responsible for the C4 Corvette and the third-generation Camaro, which explains its sporty and aggressive design language.

Chevrolet Beretta Legacy and Influence

The Chevrolet Beretta left a notable mark on the automotive landscape of the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was a high-volume seller for Chevrolet, especially in its early years, with nearly 275,000 units sold in 1988 alone. Its stylish and modern design helped to popularize the front-wheel-drive sport coupe in the American market. The Beretta successfully bridged the gap in Chevrolet’s lineup between the economical Cavalier and the more powerful, rear-wheel-drive Camaro, offering buyers a fashionable and affordable entry into the performance market.

The introduction of performance variants like the GTU and particularly the GTZ with its high-revving Quad 4 engine, demonstrated that front-wheel-drive cars could be genuinely fun and competitive. The Beretta’s participation in motorsport, including pacing the Indy 500 and winning in the Trans Am series, further solidified its sporty credentials. Although the market eventually moved away from compact coupes, leading to its discontinuation, the Beretta remains a memorable car from its era for its distinctive styling and the variety of models that appealed to a wide range of buyers.

Chevrolet Beretta Global Availability

The Chevrolet Beretta was primarily designed for and sold in the North American market, with the United States being its main sales region. The cars were manufactured at GM’s assembly plants in Wilmington, Delaware, and Linden, New Jersey. While it was a common sight on American roads, the Beretta was not officially sold in large numbers in many other countries. It was a left-hand drive vehicle exclusively. There is evidence that some US-built Berettas were exported to Europe to compete with other sports coupes in that market, though they were a rare sight. Its platform sibling, the Pontiac Tempest, was a Canada-only version of the Chevrolet Corsica sedan.

Chevrolet Beretta Maintenance and Ownership Costs

Ownership costs for the Chevrolet Beretta are generally considered to be reasonable, especially by modern standards. The average annual maintenance cost is estimated at around $392, though this can vary based on the vehicle’s condition and location. Routine maintenance tasks are straightforward for most mechanics. Chevrolet recommends service intervals that include oil changes and tire rotations every 7,500 miles.

Some common issues reported by owners that can lead to repair costs include leaking water pumps, failures of the ignition system components like the coil or crankshaft position sensor, and a propensity for head gasket failure on the 3.1L V6 engine. Spare parts for general maintenance are still reasonably available due to the shared L-body platform with the Corsica and the use of common GM engines. However, trim-specific parts, especially for rarer models like the GTU and GTZ, can be harder to find. Due to its age, the resale value of a Chevrolet Beretta is relatively low, making it an affordable car to purchase on the used market.

Final Words about Chevrolet Beretta

The Chevrolet Beretta stands as a significant and stylish entry in the history of American compact coupes. For nearly a decade, it offered a compelling blend of modern design, accessible performance, and everyday usability. Its wide range of variants, from the economical base models to the spirited V6-powered GT and the high-revving GTZ, meant there was a Beretta to suit various tastes and budgets. While it has been out of production for many years and may not have the same iconic status as some of its contemporaries, the Beretta remains a fondly remembered vehicle for its distinctive looks and the fun-to-drive nature of its performance models. For enthusiasts of 1990s automobiles or those seeking an affordable and unique entry into the classic car hobby, the Chevrolet Beretta offers a great deal of character and value.