Beginning in 1970, the Chevy Chevelle Super Sport was marketed in two versions, the SS 396, and the new SS 454. But the 396 was new in a way, too, as the engine now displaced 402 cubic inches. But since the 396 had been around since the mid-1960s, Chevy had equity in the “brand” and elected not to stir the pot by changing it to the SS 402. This 1971 example, which sported single as opposed to dual headlights, is a project that the seller has no time or money to finish. We’re told it’s a real deal car, but those are usually hard to prove without documentation. Located in Pennington, New Jersey, this souped-up Malibu is available here on eBay where the no reserve auction stands at $14,000.

The SS was no longer a series of its own by 1971, so it didn’t carry a unique series code. It was a Malibu sport coupe, convertible, or Custom El Camino that was ordered with RPO ZZ15, the SS option. Estimates are that 19,293 such vehicles were ordered with two of them having the 454 motor. That leaves 10,791 units to have the 402 set up, automatic or 4-speed. We’re told this car is a true SS, but no mention is made of a window sticker or build sheet going with the sale. Also, the seller doesn’t have a title but will provide a bill of sale and contact information for the prior owner (would that satisfy your DMV?).

Under the hood resides a period-correct 402 V8 from a ’71 El Camino SS. The engine has been rebuilt with less than 2,000 miles of use since then. With some speed modifications, the motor is said to have an output of at least 450 hp. The transmission is a new TH-350 with a shift kit and a 3500-stall converter. While the motor hums nicely, some mice got to the car’s wiring harness and while the seller has replaced it, power to parts of the auto is erratic, such as the dashboard.

Some of the needed body work has already been done. The fenders and door skins are new, and the seller believes the rear quarter panels have been replaced. Some of the glass needs to be installed and are with the car. The paint was once green, but it’s hard to tell between the new pieces and primer. The bumpers are gone, but the hardware to mount new ones is still around. The interior is said to be complete with some of the pieces needing to be put into place. If the seller can document this car’s SS heritage, it could be a desirable project to finish.