It is always reassuring when a seller encourages potential buyers to reach out to them for additional information and photos of a classic they are selling. Such is the case with this 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS. The seller doesn’t paint this beauty as something it isn’t, admitting that it isn’t perfect. However, it is a tidy and seemingly solid vehicle that should provide excellent performance for someone seeking a turnkey classic. The SS is listed here on eBay in Bristol, Pennsylvania. Bidding has passed the reserve to sit at $20,800.
Chevrolet’s Second Generation Chevelle range hit showroom floors for the 1968 model year, with the company following industry trends by turning its back on Coke-bottle styling in favor of a look that gave its latest offering a greater physical presence. Buyers readily accepted the new look, with the last Second Generation cars rolling off the line in 1972. The Cowl Tag confirms this 1971 model wears its correct Mulsanne Blue paint, although it is unclear whether it received a previous restoration. The seller admits the paint isn’t perfect and that the car would benefit from a cosmetic refresh. However, with them assessing it as a Hagerty #3, many enthusiasts seeking a driver-grade classic would consider it acceptable. The panels are straight, and the Chevelle is structurally sound. The underside is said to be rust-free, and if there are exterior sheetmetal problems, they are too minor to show in the supplied photos. Encouragingly, the seller encourages potential buyers to ask questions, suggesting they have nothing to hide. It is also worth noting that their eBay feedback is 100% positive, which is worth considering when determining whether the car is the real deal. The chrome and glass look above average for a driver-grade vehicle, and the wheels have no obvious problems.
The positive news continues inside this Chevelle, with its Black vinyl trim in good order. There appears to be a developing split on the driver’s seat, but the remaining upholstered surfaces show no evidence of abuse or distress. The dash and pad are excellent, and while the carpet might be slightly faded, there is no appreciable wear that justifies immediate replacement. It isn’t overflowing with factory options, so potential buyers shouldn’t expect niceties like air conditioning. The factory radio has made way for a radio/cassette player, but since the dash isn’t cut, returning it to a more “stock” appearance would be straightforward.
The seller admits this Chevelle is no longer numbers-matching. However, its drivetrain combination promises an enjoyable motoring experience. The engine bay houses a 350ci V8, which sends its power to the road via a four-speed manual transmission. The four-barrel version of the small-block generated 270hp and 360 ft/lbs of torque in 1971, and I see no reason why the new owner would expect less from this SS. The updated intake and headers will undoubtedly improve breathing, so there could be additional ponies under the right foot. Potential buyers can consider this Chevelle a turnkey proposition. The seller says it runs well, and the transmission shifts smoothly. The impression is that flying in and driving home is a realistic expectation for the winning bidder.
This 1971 Chevelle SS probably won’t appeal to purists since it has lost its original engine. However, an enthusiast seeking a classic offering scope for a straightforward restoration as time and circumstances allow may find it irresistible. The seller’s decision to encourage inquiries is reassuring, as is their clear statement that the car isn’t perfect. They are honest in their assessment, ensuring bidders know what they will receive for their money. Enjoying this SS during the coming summer months before spending winter in the workshop performing a refresh sounds mighty tempting. With bidding past the reserve, a new home for this classic is only days away. Are you tempted to make it yours?
Nice car in great colors. With a 4spd and a small block 350, how could you go wrong? I prefer a driver’s car to a garage queen anyway. And I really like those chrome coolant hoses too…
Get rid of that stupid stuff under hood and you would have a nice car
Don’t know why you call better parts ” stupid stuff”. I’d ditch those wheels first
I don’t see a console between the bucket seats. Maybe a bench seat was there first. Rocker panel molding suspicious on a real SS. My son has one. 71 SS, 350, 4 speed with air conditioning and a build sheet to prove it.
Interior trim code of 714 means it originally had Antique Light Sandalwood bench seat interior. Not surprising they changed it to black:
https://chevellestuff.net/1971/interiors/int_bench.htm#714
This is a put-together car… but a console is optional, even with bucket seats. Interesting exhaust, it is in basically the correct location for an El Camino, and you see El Camino’s with the exhaust exiting under the bumper as you would with a Chevelle. All in all though a decent looking car, once you replace the heater and radiator hoses.
Looks like a good car for a reasonable price. Like already stated, get rid of the silly additions under the hood and it’s a nice car
It needs Cragars. And, yes, get rid of the stupid stuff under the hood.
As other comments said get rid of the pep boys chrome package under the hood along with those floor mats. The only other thing to change is to make the tailpipes exit the under the rear bumper. This other wise is a very nice car.
Throw away the 350 mouse motor and put a big block 454 in there. And a console between the seats and a cowl induction hood with the flapper and vintage air. And repaint it.
SOLD for $24,100.