1965 Chevrolet Chevelle SS Tribute

Description

The Chevrolet Malibu/Chevelle is certainly a contender for the world's most popular muscle car, and for good reason. One look at this 1965 Chevelle convertible tells you all you need to know about why they're so beloved: great looks, a wide variety of powerplants available under the hood, and plenty of room for long-distance cruising. Add in small block V8 power, an overdrive transmission, and brilliant electric blue paint, and you've got a car that hits only high notes.

So it's not a real SS, who cares? When you're talking about a design as perfectly proportioned as the early Chevelle convertible, the look matters more than the pedigree. The stunning bright blue finish on this one seems to amplify its tidy proportions, stretching it visually over the big wheels and perfect muscle car stance. Restored several years ago, the prep and body work were well done, and even those massive rear quarters are arrow-straight and the body is well fitted overall. Part of the Chevelle's subtlety is that crease that runs from front to rear, and getting that right is critical, so I'll just let the photos speak for themselves in that regard. That gorgeous medium blue finish was clearly wet sanded and buffed when it was finished, giving it a distortion-free surface. I also like the stock hood with chrome trim, beautifully refinished bumpers, and the overall subtlety of the look. A car like this doesn't need to advertise.

The mid-1960s were all about simplicity in design, and like the exterior, the black interior is a study in careful restraint. Forget faux wood, this Chevy uses bright metal trim to contrast with the black interior, giving the dashboard an ornate look that's far from flashy. The upholstery was replaced when the car was restored, and has a very inviting look with no major damage, wear, or other defects. Instead, all you want to do is slide behind the custom steering wheel, listening to the comfortable groan of the seat as you settle in, and fire up the snarky small block up front. The factory AM radio still lives in the dash and one glance in the trunk tells you all you need to know about how well-finished this car really is. The top is relatively new and fits very well, offering a crystal clear rear window that looks great.

Performance got a big upgrade as well, thanks to a 350 cubic inch V8 under the hood. Aside from a few chrome pieces, it's pretty stock, so it starts easily and idles with enough of a lope to let folks know it's no pushover. Bright chrome on the valve covers and matching Erson air cleaner shine against the Chevy Orange engine enamel and satin black engine bay. Chrome accessories help add some sparkle and you'll note that a modern dual master cylinder powers the disc brakes. It's an easy cruiser thanks to a 700R4 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission and a robust 10-bolt rear, and long tube headers exhale through a brand new set of Flowmaster mufflers for just the right sound. The stance is exactly right, not too low but not like mom's grocery-getter, either, and with chrome Torque Thrust wheels and oversized performance radials, it looks fast just sitting still.

This is a very nice A-body convertible with an overdrive gearbox and plenty of firepower, all at a very reasonable price. What else do you need? Call today!