1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 L78

Description

Before we get into the details, the important things you need to know on this car are that it is one of only six 1970 Chevelle convertibles built with the legendary L78 396 engine and the only one in Cortez Silver. It has a recent restoration to the very highest standards with every nut, bolt, and clamp being exactly as it was when it was new. And it is very, very fast.

The L78 was built only for a few months early in 1970 production before being supplanted by the LS5 454 and by December 1969, they were done. As a result, finding a car like this is an extraordinary thing, since the L78 with its solid lifters is a far more performance-oriented engine than the relatively docile LS5. The Cortez Silver bodywork remains somewhat subtle, concealing the beast within, and while no car is truly perfect, this amazing Chevelle comes closer than just about any car we've ever seen. The full restoration was by noted performance experts Pratt & Miller in Detroit and the results are simply stunning. Gaps are exact, the finish is miles deep, and the stripes are precise. All the chrome was refinished to show standards and with a blacked-out SS grille up front and a functioning cowl-induction hood, it definitely has the high performance look you'd demand from one of the nastiest cars on the street in 1970. Regardless of your engine preference, it is unlikely that you will ever find a nicer Chevelle than this.

Likewise, the interior was given a full makeover to factory standards with none of the all-too-familiar "upgrades" that seem to plague Chevelles more than any other car. Black factory buckets wear reproduction seat covers, the carpets and door panels are brand new, and the gauges show crisp, clear markings that probably weren't this nice even when it was new. A center console houses the chrome shifter for the Muncie 4-speed and this car is especially interesting with unusual options like power windows, a tilt steering column, and a power convertible top. You couldn't get A/C on a solid-lifter L78, but given this one's luxury orientation, someone seemed to want an iron fist in a silk glove. And speaking of the convertible top, the black vinyl fits superbly and probably hasn't been folded except for our photo session, so there are zero wrinkles. The trunk is also correctly restored with a new mat and a full-sized spare with cover.

The L78 396/375 was the top dog until the advent of the LS6 454, but in many ways, driving enthusiasts prefer it. The solid lifter cam makes a ferocious cackle and gives this car a fantastic sound. Every single component on the engine is date-code correct, including the block which is a proper 1970 L78 396. The Winters aluminum intake, the carburetor, the distributor, and all the other critical parts are all coded properly and details like the hoses, clamps, and other fasteners are exactly right. Even the factory smog equipment is still in place! It's backed by a tough Muncie 4-speed and a set of 3.55 gears on a Posi limited slip in the 12-bolt rear end, so it offers the right combination of performance and comfort. The chassis is detailed for show in every possible way, right down to the reproduction exhaust system that still sounds great. Shiny SS wheels are probably better than new and carry correct F70-14 Goodyear Polyglas tires.

The L78 is even rarer than an LS6 and combined with the convertible body style, this is that legendary needle in a haystack. Show quality and a fantastic pedigree that includes a build sheet? Even at this price, this car will not last long. Call today!