The SS 396 became so popular with muscle car buyers that Chevrolet promoted it to series status in 1966 within the Chevelle lineup. Nearly 67,000 copies left the factory as Sport Coupes that year, plus another 5,000 as convertibles. The seller’s ’66 was just treated to a frame-off restoration that included some upgrades which performance buffs will appreciate. Located in Murrieta, California, this beautiful silver stallion is available here on eBay where the current bid is $31,900. But that ante is below the seller’s desired reserve.
After two successful years as Chevy’s new mid-size offering, the Chevelle received a styling refresh in 1966. That included the addition of a “tunnel back” roofline that the Dodge Charger would emulate a couple of years later. The Malibu was the upper-tier model and the basis for SS 396 production. The minimum output for the 396 cubic inch V8 was 325 hp (we don’t know the rating of this one). The seller’s car received a version of it from 1968 in the restoration and he/she mistakenly calls it a 402, but that wasn’t until Chevy modified the original 396 in the 1970 model year.
This Chevelle may have spent all its life in California and carries “black plates” that the State used during the 1960s. Its restoration was made easier by the fact that it was rust-free when the project began. The vehicle was stripped to bare metal and rustproofed before the new silver finish was applied. Only 90 miles have been added to the odometer since the work was completed. As a result, we’re told the machine runs and drives quite well. A Muncie 4-speed manual transmission is paired with the 396. The seller provided a long list of mechanical upgrades which include the suspension, 4-wheel disc brakes, vintage air conditioning, and lots more.
Open the doors and you’ll find an interior with houndstooth upholstery on the seats. Even all the glass in the Chevy is new as are the oversize Rally wheels and tires. The automobile should sound really good rolling down the street with its over-size Flowmaster exhaust system. The seller has a fist full of receipts for all the work done and they will go with the sale. He/she intended to keep this classic set of wheels, but life gets in the way, and it must move on to another deserving party. Could that be you?
That shifter means business lol.
It might be a Hurst underneath with a stock type handle… they are available! and I think are pretty cool.
If it wasn’t a Hurst underneath, I would remedy that first thing.
A black vinyl top would look nice on this but the hounds tooth not so much!ł
A Muncie 4-speed paired to a 396 is a potent package. Side step the clutch and hold on!
Nice car, looks really well done. Based on the direction of the build it’s a bit surprising they didn’t go with a larger displacement engine and a 5spd.
Steve R
I had a 66 but not an SS. Used GTO springs on the front with air shocks on the back and kept it level.
DITTO, had same. I put Cragar Slot Mags with M50-14s on back. Was a beast owned from 03/75 to 0677 had to sell as I went to England, USAFa
This is the perfect build, old school drivetrain and just enough upgrades to not be over the top. I’d love to have this in my garage!
This looks like a really nice car done really well, but something about the chrome (polished billet?) 17″ rally’s just doesn’t look right to me.
I totally agree, a set of stock SS rally rims or Corvette rally’s would look much nicer. Both with BF TA’s of course!
I thought exactly the same thing when I first looked at this car. There’s something about the wheels that just doesn’t appeal to me but the rest of the car sure as heck does. What a beautiful car! As long as the bidding doesn’t get too crazy, this should make someone very happy. (Quick note: 8″ Corvette rally’s with a set of Dunlop GT Qualifiers would be perfect.) I know, GT Qualifiers are no longer made but, but still, it would look cool.
Or perhaps some period correct Cragar SS or American Racing TTD’s?
Cooter,
Put a set of Crager SS period correct, 5 spoke chrome, same size front and rear mags on it and be done.
I don’t care what tires you decide on but by the way the restoration was done to the suspension a quality set of Continentals would be my choice.
This car is exquisite. Kudos for the owner!
Absolutely beautiful car ! Love everything about it. Only change I’d make would be a Hurst Super Shifter.
Owned several over the years . Perfect size car. Lots of fun and plenty of races won. Just remembering !!!!
1966 SS 396 is my favorite of all the Chevelle’s. This one seems to be very well sorted. Curious to see what the sale price will be.
Someone really likes this one. Price is now $68,100.
It is a very nice specimen.
Update, $75,100 now. 12-16-2024.
The prettiest Chevelle ever made
This one is righteous. Magnificent!
First car I bought was a 66 Chevelle 283 2spd. auto, factory power windows. Loved it!
Nice color and a nice desirable car I wonder what it will bring
Well boys and kids, this one is now in the books. Ended.
Someone bought a very nice ride.