This Chevrolet Chevelle was about as good as a buyer could hope to find in 1968. The fact that it is an SS 396 makes it extremely desirable, but the first owner’s decision to pair the L78 big-block with a four-speed “Rock Crusher” transmission gave the Chevelle unquestioned muscle car credentials. However, this classic requires significant work before it can return to its rightful place on our roads, as the dreaded tin worm has attacked it. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the SS listed here on eBay in Apex, North Carolina. The seller set their price for this project at $25,999 OBO.
Chevrolet released its Second Generation Chevelle range in 1968, with the company’s latest offering delivering styling that was bolder and more aggressive than its predecessor. It won instant acceptance among buyers, resulting in extremely healthy sales figures. The SS 396 retained its spot as a desirable muscle car, and this first-year example would have been stunning in its prime. It left the line finished in Tripoli Turquoise with a Black vinyl top, but time hasn’t treated it kindly. The tired paint and trim deterioration are the least of its problems, because this classic has some very significant rust issues. The vinyl top functioned as an effective moisture trap, and the roof has paid the price. There are significant holes in various areas, and the buyer may need to invest around $550 in a replacement roof skin. It doesn’t end there, because there are holes in the driver’s-side lower front fender and door corner, and evidence of small, developing holes in the floor pans. Returning this classic to a structurally sound state will require many hours of cutting and welding, and a very significant financial outlay. However, the car’s mechanical specifications might make it worthwhile.
Given this Chevelle’s model designation, the presence of a 396ci V8 under the hood is a no-brainer. Since the first owner selected the L78 version, it delivered an impressive 375hp and 415 ft/lbs of torque when this classic left the line. However, there is more good news: this car is 1-of-1,049 examples of the SS 396 from that model year ordered with the four-speed “Rock Crusher” manual transmission. Add a 12-bolt rear end to the equation, and this was once a very tough classic. The seller believes that the existing big-block is a warranty replacement unit, but the remaining mechanical components are numbers-matching. Unsurprisingly, the car doesn’t run or drive, but the foundations are in place for the buyer to restore the Chevelle to its role as a potent muscle car that demands respect.
The Chevelle’s interior is largely complete, with the driver’s door trim the only obvious missing item. Someone added a column-mounted tachometer, but the interior is, otherwise, unmolested. However, it is far from pristine: the Black vinyl trim shows rips, splits, and significant deterioration, and the carpet is worn. However, it isn’t all doom and gloom, because the dash and pad look quite nice, and the car retains its original radio. It will require a retrim, but the ready availability of complete interior kits makes that task a piece of cake.
At a touch below $26,999, this 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 is not a cheap project candidate. The significant rust issues will leave the buyer with no choice but to adopt a nut-and-bolt approach to its restoration to ensure the car is structurally sound before it finds its rightful place on our roads. It will require deep commitment and a healthy wallet to achieve that goal, and won’t be for the faint-hearted. Even with such a long list of obstacles to contemplate, are you tempted to take this classic home?
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