The stunning presentation is easily understood once you discover that this 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 has a genuine 26,000 miles showing on its odometer. The first owner successfully combined a subtle, classy exterior paint shade with a drivetrain that offers undeniable muscle credentials. It has undergone a few minor changes, but the original parts are included in the deal, allowing the buyer to return this SS to its factory state. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this stunning classic listed here on eBay in Penngrove, California. The seller set their BIN at $87,000.
After a successful introduction in 1968, Chevrolet made only minor changes to the Second Generation Chevelle range for the 1969 model year. These weren’t radical, but helped differentiate the latest offering from its predecessor. This Chevelle rolled off the line in 1969, ordered by its first owner as an SS 396 finished in Burgundy with a Black vinyl top. Its appearance is impressive, especially considering the seller’s claim that the paint and vinyl are original. If that is the case, the indications are that this classic has led a sheltered life. There are no significant cosmetic imperfections, the panels are as straight as an arrow, and this baby is rust-free. It rolls on Cragar wheels in some shots, but the seller states that the original wheels, which are seen in some listing images, are included. The trim is excellent, and the glass is clear.
This Chevelle’s mechanical components are positively mouthwatering if you crave a classic with plenty of power. It features a 396ci V8, a four-speed manual transmission, a 12-bolt 3.55 Posi rear end, and power assistance for the steering and the front disc brakes. This big-block is the L34 variant, delivering 350hp and 415 ft/lbs of torque. That makes the Chevelle a genuinely fast vehicle, justifying its muscle car tag. Those considering this car’s investment potential will welcome the news that it is numbers-matching. It retains original components like the smog equipment, exhaust, and suspension. That seems to support the seller’s mileage claim, although they don’t mention crucial documentary evidence. There is no information on the car’s mechanical condition, but I would expect nothing less than perfection from a Chevelle at this price.
The seller states that this Chevelle’s interior is original, and its condition further supports the mileage claim. The Black vinyl upholstered surfaces are free from wear, rips, and significant stretching. The carpet is spotless, as is the dash and pad. The seller added a Hurst Competition Plus shifter for improved control, but also included the original, which the buyer could reinstall for a more “stock” look. There are no other visible changes, with this interior retaining the factory AM radio.
Although the seller is sparing with its history, I find their mileage claim for this 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 plausible. It is a stunning vehicle with performance potential befitting an iconic muscle car. The seller’s price sits at the top end of the market. However, it would appear justified if the odometer reading is verified via documentary evidence. That is the key to this classic, and would be the first question that I would ask if I planned to pursue the SS further. Do you agree?
very nice. i saw it on eBay last year. nice but looking for auction house price
As you said Adam, everything depends on the documentation of the sellers mileage claim. If true, there aren’t many left in this original condition. The only way it would be better is if it was the 396/375 hp engine. I prefer the stock wheels but I’d leave the hurst shifter. Great looking Chevelle.
This Chevelle, as much as I don’t like vinyl roof on this body style, this SS396 is stunning. If it truly is a 26k mi car, it might be worth the asking price. Swapping in the Hurst shifter for the Muncie is the way to go. Nice options and a 4 speed with a bench seat is one of my favorite configurations. If I had $87k laying around, this’d be in my garage.
Nice Chevelle. Probably not $87k nice, but the seller is most likely trying to maintain optimism in a market experiencing a slight decline. Enthusiasts aging out probably is more to blame than any economic factor; there is plenty of muscle for sale now for that reason, and prices are moderating. High value machines — Hemis. LS6s, SD 455s, Ram Air IVs, wing/aero cars, and others of that ilk — will always retain value and collectibility. But more common muscle cars like this SS396 Chevelle, or similar models from other manufacturers will see a continuing decline in a shrinking market. Will we see the return to more sane pricing? As a buyer, I hope so. As a seller, I wonder if now is the time to sell before losing any more value. Regardless, it’ll be interesting to see what happens with this Chevelle. Most probably the auction will give the Chevelle added exposure (the low miles is a strong allure), and once it ends, a private deal will likely occur, making both parties happy. At least I hope so…..
I prefer stock wheels too! Very nice Chevelle here and its a manual which is nice.
Been for sale off and on for a couple of years. Seems now they’ve upped the price, probably in hopes someone will offer closer to what they’re hoping to get out of it, which if prior ads are any indication, somewhere in the mid-seventies.
The intake looks from a 325hp 396, and just because the air cleaner says 350hp, doesn’t make it so. If the owner is claiming 350hp, someone needs to look into how true that is. It’s a beautiful car…..