1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396

Description

This 1969 Chevelle SS is bound to attract a lot of potential suitors thanks to its awesome combination of handsome OEM good looks, a big block under the hood, and a long list of freshly restored components.

Brilliantly refinished in Hugger Orange with a white tape stripe, this SS certainly looks the part of one of the era's most potent street cars. The body and paint were restored just a few years ago, and it's clear that someone took exceptional care of the car ever since. Sure, it's been driven, because no man can resist the siren song of a big block in a Chevelle, but it has also been carefully washed and waxed, leaving a beautiful, smooth finish. There were no deviations from stock during the rebuild, which means the original flat hood remains instead of a ubiquitous cowl induction piece and nobody felt the need to paint extra stripes on it. Shiny chrome bumpers, bright stainless window trim, and the proper SS badges all add to the very authentic look. In fact, this car is so straight and well-finished that it isn't until you see it in person that you get a full appreciation for how nice it truly is.

Inside it's the same story. The black buckets were recovered when the car was repainted, and show very little wear. And yes, numbers fans, this is a code 756 interior, which means the buckets and console are original equipment. The original console is excellent and comes complete with everyone's favorite horseshoe shifter. Factory power steering, and power brakes make this Chevelle feel more like a luxury car, but cracking the throttle erases any thoughts of leisurely acceleration and mushy suspensions. The gauges are probably nicely preserved originals, and a set of Auto Meter dials under the dash keep a keen eye on the engine. The only other non-stock component inside is the entertainment system, which includes a Sony AM/FM/cassette head unit that fits neatly in the original slot and uses suitably period-looking knobs. The trunk wasn't overlooked, either, and carries a correct mat and full-sized spare that's never been used.

The engine is a rebuilt 1968-vintage 396 that has been nicely dressed in a proper coat of Chevy Orange. Chrome valve covers and a bright chrome air cleaner were standard issue on big block SS models in 1969, and the decals suggest that it's rebuilt to L78 375 horsepower specs, which included an upgraded cam, bigger carburetor, and that open-element air cleaner. Someone got the little stuff right, too, ranging from the reproduction GM-stamped heater hoses, to the hose clamps, to the beautifully restored exhaust manifolds. The only notable non-stock pieces are the Edelbrock intake, Holley carb, and the MSD ignition, but we're pretty sure you'll appreciate the quick starting and RIGHT NOW throttle response they offer. It's backed by a robust TH400 3-speed automatic transmission and a 12-bolt rear end, which carries 3.73 gears for the kind of thrust big blocks are famous for. While you're under there, also note the Flowmaster exhaust, new gas tank, and the beautiful 14-inch SS wheels with reproduction R70-14 Firestone Wide-Oval tires.

This '69 Chevelle SS represents a wonderful opportunity to own a big block with show car looks that you can still drive without worries. Call today!