The optional Sport Suspension works with the SS model's fat P225/60R16 Goodyear Eagle RSA tires to provide surprisingly high levels of grip. The tires are a little noisy, but that's a tradeoff we willingly accept for their bite. The Monte Carlo has the widest front and rear track in its segment. (The track is the distance between the left and right tires.)

Engine and transmission are responsive as well. The Monte Carlo SS features GM's thoroughly proven 3800 V6, which delivers 200 horsepower and 225 pounds-feet of torque. That may sound puny compared to, say, a 7.4-liter Monte Carlo SS from 1970, but it's more than enough to break the tires loose on this front-wheel-drive car. Punch the throttle and there's instant power and lots of it. It's probably the most highly developed overhead-valve V6 in the world. GM has baked in plenty of refinement since the late 1970s, reducing valve-train and bearing friction, bolstering bottom-end strength, and tweaking the electronic engine management and fuel injection. For a pushrod V6, this is about as good as it gets. Couple this engine to GM's excellent four-speed automatic transmission, add all-speed traction control, and you've got yourself a really solid drive train that offers fun as well as decent fuel economy.

The 3400 V6 is an adequate performer, but the Monte Carlo isn't quite the same with this smaller engine. In fact, it seems to miss the point entirely. If it's economy you're after, maybe you should look at the Chevy Impala, which is based on the same platform.

If you're going to run with the fast guys, you'd better have good brakes. Fortunately, the Monte Carlo boasts the largest brake calipers and disc-brake rotors in its class. We punished them mightily on one of our favorite stretches of twisty road, without a hint of fade or grabbing. Four-wheel disc brakes come standard on all Monte Carlos. ABS comes standard on the SS, which helps the driver maintain steering control of the car in an emergency stopping situation.