A factory big-block convertible is rare and valuable (no matter which American automotive company built it), but a factory big-block convertible with air conditioning definitely ups the value. This 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 is not only a big block drop-top, it also features factory air conditioning! Find it here on eBay with a top bid of $14,600.

Though the SS debuted as an option package in 1964 (for the Malibu trim line), the first SS 396 would not debut until February 1965. Code-named Z16, the big-block Chevelle SS of 1965 was intended to take on the Tri-power 389 GTOs and take the crown of horsepower king. Featuring a 375 horsepower 396, the Z16 was built for style, speed, and durability; it featured a convertible frame (which was more rigid compared to the coupe frame), a narrowed, heavy-duty rear end, heavy-duty suspension, heavy-duty power brakes from the full-size Impala, and a mandatory Muncie four-speed manual transmission. On the inside, the Z16 Chevelle featured a tachometer, a 160 mph speedometer, deluxe front and rear seat belts, an AM/FM radio, and a padded dash. Goldline tires with steel wheels and sporty magnesium wheel-style hubcaps and a remote driver’s side mirror were also included. Though most (if not all) the features on the Z16 were standard, a high list price of $4,586 and limited availability (only select Chevrolet dealers sold the Z16, and you had to be in the know to sell one) hampered production; only 201 Z16 Chevelles were built, including two prototypes (one of which was based off of a loaded 1964 SS 327 Chevelle and is regarded as the first Z16 Chevelle) and a one-off Z16 convertible.  For 1966, the small-block SSs and the Z16 option package were both replaced by the SS 396. Featuring a redesigned body, the SS 396 came in two body styles: coupe and convertible. This particular car is a SS 396 convertible (one of 5,429 produced), and was originally finished in Regal Red. Currently in primer, the body appears to be in good shape (the seller did a lot of body work, which is detailed in the description of the listing), but will obviously need its restoration finished. The front and rear bumpers shine like new, and the side mirror looks to be in good shape. The Rally Wheels present well too, but I would remove them and swap on a set of steel wheels with either simulated mag-wheel covers or dog-dish hubcaps.

Judging by the air cleaner, the engine appears to be an L35 396. Rated at 325 horsepower, this car’s 396 is backed by an automatic transmission (it was originally a Powerglide 2-speed, but has since been replaced by a TH-350). It should be noted that the engine is not original to the car, but appears to be period-correct and is currently partially-assembled (a description is included in the listing). The rear end has also been replaced by a 1970 12-bolt (1966 SS 396 Chevelles did come with a factory 12-bolt). The engine will need to be rebuilt, but the block has already been cooked and Magnafluxed (showing no cracks in the block), so the process has already been jump-started. I would either source a Turbo 400 transmission, a correct Powerglide, or source a GM 4-speed automatic with overdrive and swap it in for the TH-350 and build up the 396 (my dad had a 1968 Camaro SS 396 with the L35, and he got it to run in 12-second range).

Man, do I wish cars had interiors styled like this one. This Chevelle’s interior will need a total restoration (including new seat covers, arm rests, and either a new clock or new tachometer), but otherwise appears to be fairly complete. A black interior with bucket seats and a console is a huge bonus, and I definitely dig the manual windows and factory air conditioning. Though I do wish this was a manual-transmission equipped car, SS 396 convertibles are quite valuable (restored ones value anywhere from $43K to $72K, depending on condition), and a Regal Red on black with factory air car would certainly bump up the value. Once restored, this would be a great car to take to a local cruise night or car show, and this would definitely be a great conversation piece. Feel free to express your opinion on this car and share any stories of experiences you had with any SS, SS 396 or big-block Chevelles.