Big Block Muscle: 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396

• Seller: Charlie W illiams
• Location: Altamonte Springs, Florida
• Mileage: 28,200 Shown
• Chassis #: 136370A784626
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: 396ci V8
• Transmission: Auto

Some enthusiasts are unwilling or unable to tackle a project build. For them, the only alternative is to purchase a turnkey classic that can be enjoyed immediately. The market has plenty of choices, but those with an iconic muscle car on their radar may find this 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 irresistible. Its presentation is stunning, with no cosmetic needs or issues. The interior is spotless, but the big block under the hood is the star of the show. It provides performance befitting a car of this caliber, and the owner feels it needs a new home with someone who will appreciate all that it offers. Therefore, he has listed the SS exclusively with us at Barn Finds.

Some classics blend into the background, like automotive chameleons, while others are loud and proud, announcing to the world that they are genuinely special. This 1970 Chevelle fits into the second category, although it does so while remaining classy and cool. The exterior wears Cranberry Red paint, exhibiting an impressive depth of color and shine. There is no evidence of flaws or defects, and the contrasting White stripes look crisp and clean. The panels are as straight as an arrow, and this classic is as rust-free and solid as it would have been when rolled off the line. The trim and glass are spotless, and the Rally II wheels are free from stains and defects. It is always risky to describe a car of this vintage as perfect, but if the next owner parked it on the showroom floor at their local Chevrolet dealership, it is guaranteed to bring people through the door for a closer look.

When is a 396ci V8, not a 396? The answer is when we lift the hood of this Chevelle. Chevrolet enlarged the capacity of its iconic big block to 402ci in 1970 but maintained the “396” designation due to brand recognition. This car’s V8 sends 350hp and 415 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a three-speed Hydramatic transmission. The new owner also receives power assistance for the steering and brakes, meaning they don’t require muscles to drive this muscle car. Anyone doubting this Chevelle’s credentials only needs to glance at the performance figures to learn the truth. The ¼-mile journey will become a memory in 14.8 seconds while keeping the pedal to the metal will see the big block run out of breath with the needle nudging 130mph. This car’s engine bay presents beautifully and doesn’t flatter to deceive. The SS is in excellent mechanical health and comes with an Inspection Report and a Service Book.

The theme of spotless presentation continues when we focus on this Chevelle’s interior. The first owner elected to trim its interior in White vinyl, adding a console, air conditioning, a tilt wheel, a factory tachometer, and an AM/FM radio for a more luxurious motoring experience. I’ve always considered White vinyl a bold choice because it often doesn’t age well. However, this interior carries the hallmarks of a car treated respectfully. The upholstered surfaces are free from wear, stains, and yellowing. The contrasting Black carpet is excellent, while the dash and pad are spotless. If this car’s exterior is enough to turn heads, its interior will impress anyone looking through the windows.

This 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 seems to have something for everyone. Its presentation is incredible, with no issues or problems to cause its new owner sleepless nights. The interior trim complements the exterior stripes, forming a combination that will draw universal admiration. However, its mechanical specifications provide performance that befits a classic, iconic muscle car. It needs nothing, and while it looks fantastic in the photos, it would look even better parked in your garage. You know that’s true, don’t you?