When Chevrolet introduced the second generation Chevelle in 1968, it managed to compete against other muscle cars offered by Chrysler, especially those equipped with the powerful Hemi engines. But it didn’t exactly match the manufacturer’s expectations, as it didn’t have big enough engines. So, in 1970, the tie brand decided to lift the travel ban. Thus, the powerful version 454 has seen the light.
In addition to the big V8 under the hood, SS versions were redesigned with new front fenders, a domed hood, and a new grille sporting the double-S badge. Another significant update was to the rear, where the lights rear were integrated into the bumper along with the reversing lights. In addition, the interior was also remodeled and included a new instrument cluster. It’s no wonder the Chevelle became one of the most prized muscle cars ever produced.
In 1970, Chevrolet produced about 53,000 units of the Chevelle SS396 and less than 10,000 of the mighty SS454. This was due to the significant price difference between these versions. There was also a huge gap between them in terms of power. While the former was available with 350 hp (L34) or 375 hp (L78), the latter was provided with up to 450 hp for the LS6 variant. Still, they all had enough muscle to spin the tires and cover the quarter mile in under 15 seconds, with the LS6 version credited with getting it in the low 13s.
But then emissions controls and insurance prices hit the muscle car market. Then the final nail in the coffin was the first oil crisis that started in 1973, which brought the entire muscle car era to a halt. Soon, many former glories of racing circuits were parked and forgotten in barns and garages, waiting for better days to come. And these days are here.
Photo: longmacsales/Bring A Trailer
We do not know how many years he had to wait from the E.V the revolution started and spread like wildfire. Today, there are electric SUVs that can cover a quarter mile faster than a Plymouth Road Runner 440-6. But as we all know, muscle cars don’t just offer fun on the track; they deliver real sound that no battery-powered vehicle can deliver. It’s the whole experience that matters most, even when you’re driving it at 15-25 mph (25-40 km/h) in school zones.
But because there were so few Chevelles produced with the 454, prices for these versions are going through the roof. Also, not everyone is ready to spend a six-figure price to drive a vehicle daily or even just on the weekends. So the next best thing is the SS396, like what you see here.
This car was originally painted in Misty Turquoise, but is now blue. It also has two black lines on the hood and trunk. In addition, the wheel arches are adorned with chrome trim. We know it’s not a completely original vehicle, but it’s one you can drive more often than one that costs more than your house. To keep the car planted on the road, the previous owner installed a set of 225/60 BFGoodrich Radial T/A white-letter tires wrapped around 15-inch rally-style wheels wearing hubcaps central SS.
Inside, there’s a fully restored cabin with black vinyl upholstery and a matching headliner and door cards. In addition, the dashboard was updated and a stereo with vintage-looking buttons was installed. You can also drive this car during the hot summer as it has an air conditioning unit. To comply with the law, there are four lap belts for the front bucket seats and the rear bench seat.
Photo: longmacsales/Bring A Trailer
The secret of this car can be found under the hood. According to the seller, powering this blue beauty is a stock bored-out 396 with a 402-inch (6.6-liter) engine that sends all of its thrust to the rear wheels via a four-speed Muncie manual. We don’t know which one it is as there were three versions (M20, M21 and M22). Rear axle type is also not mentioned, so you might want to ask the seller.
According to the pictures, the car shows no signs of rust, so it could be ready for its next owner. To confidently stop this approximately 3,700-pound (1.7-ton) vehicle, Chevrolet installed power brakes, with discs in the front and drums in the rear. The car also has power steering, so you won’t feel like working too hard to drive this vehicle down the street.
But if you want to learn more about this 1970 Chevelle Malibu Sport Coupe, you can book a trip to Salina, Kansas, where the car is located. But do it before April 23, 2023, when the auction ends.
