2003 Chevrolet SSR

Description

Inspired by the Chevy pickups of the 1940s and 50s, the SSR went from show car to production car surprisingly fast because enthusiasts screamed for it. Bulging fenders, huge wheels, and a V8 engine in a retro pickup was an outrageous idea that GM actually went ahead and produced. And this 2003 Chevrolet SSR represents the best of it all. It's a low-mileage example from the first model year, and it's hard to beat the full blackout presentation.

The name of the paint is Smokin Asphalt Black, and this well-kept example continues to have a good shine to show off the design. The broad swooping front fenders and hood on this truck definitely look retro-cool. But the old pickups didn't have the wide wheels and tires of today or the aggressive stance of a sports car. Up front there is a slash of silver across the hood and grille that looks distinctive against the black, and the Chevy script above it is unmistakably a tribute to the post-war pickups. Because the silver looks so good against the black you also have it on pieces like the running boards, dual exhaust tips and high polish alloys. While the styling is distinctive, the roof is what makes these so desirable. You have a stylish rounded roof, and with the touch of a button, it disappears with the kind of smoothness that makes this look like a roadster. It was expensive to produce, and that's what keeps this such a collectible. And for those who are collectors, this one has some particular pieces to note. It's the first year of the SSR's short run. It's a Canadian market vehicle, which adds to rarity. And while the speedometer is in KM/H, this is recorded as averaging less than 1,600 miles annually.

A full black package is another piece people look for as vehicles mature into full classics. And of course, we all love a loaded machine. It starts with a pair of leather bucket seats that are power adjustable with two driver memory positions and are also heated for those cold early morning drives. The door panels have a retro look to it but also has modern Bose speakers to deliver crisp audio from the AM/FM/CD stereo. The four-spoke steering wheel has controls for the radio and cruise control at your fingertips, and it sits on a tilt column to give you a clear view to the full gauge pack. Power windows, power locks, keyless entry/alarm, dual front airbags, side airbags, and cold-blowing air conditioning complete a terrific driver's package. The rear bed has a full locking cover, full carpeting, and side well storage. So while we could call it a truck bed, you just know it's really the biggest trunk you're going to find.

What would a retro street rod pickup be without a V8 motor? So, this SSR is equipped with GMs 5.3-liter Vortec V8 that pumps out 300 horsepower. This fuel-injected powerhouse is the numbers-matching unit in this low-mileage Chevy. Quick off the line, a sports car suspension, and four-wheel power disc brakes make this a lot of fun. Plus, power steering and a four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive make it everyday easy.

The sale comes complete with the owner's manual packet, maintenance records, car cover, and a proper trailer hitch attachment. This is the full-blackout first-year SSR that you can enjoy today and watch everyone's admiration grow over the years. Call today!!!