Genuine Survivor: 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396

It would be unfair to expect any survivor-grade classic with almost six decades under its belt to be perfect. That is certainly the case with this 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396. If I were to pick a single word to describe its condition, it would be “honest.” The paint has faded, and the panels sport a few minor dings and marks. However, it appears to be rock-solid, leaving the new owner to choose between restoration and preservation. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting this wonderful classic listed here on Craigslist in Tucson, Arizona. The seller doesn’t specify a price, although the listing text suggests a figure of $65,000.

The 1967 model year marked the end of the line for Chevrolet’s First Generation Chevelle range. The company performed a major restyle the previous year, and although its replacement was waiting in the wings, it undertook a further, although less significant, refresh in 1967. This final-year SS 396 is a genuine survivor that has spent its life in California and Arizona. The dry climate has baked its Emerald Turquoise paint, which has a matte appearance. However, the climate appears to have done a marvelous job preserving the steel, because there is no evidence of rust. The panels have accumulated minor bumps and bruises, but there is no severe damage to the original steel. The trim looks very presentable for a survivor of this vintage, and the tinted glass is clear. The Chevelle currently rolls on 15″ Rally wheels, but the deal includes a matching set of 14″ Rally wheels that the buyer could install.

The muscle car war was in full swing when this Chevelle rolled off the line, and one glance at its specifications confirms it was a formidable weapon at the time. Its engine bay houses a 396ci V8, and as the L35 version, it delivers an impressive 325hp and 410 ft/lbs of torque. New for 1967 was the three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission performing shifting duties, with the SS also sporting a 12-bolt rear end, power steering, and power front disc brakes. The seller indicates the Chevelle is a numbers-matching classic that pins occupants in their seats when the driver stomps on the gas pedal. It runs and drives well, with the seller suggesting the buyer could fly in and build a relationship with their new purchase while driving it home.

Given the exterior paint condition, I didn’t have high hopes for this Chevelle’s interior. The same UV rays that baked the exterior could have exacted a high toll on the car’s vinyl and plastic. However, what we find inside is a pleasant surprise. The Turquoise trim is in excellent condition, and even the prone upper section of the back seat is free from problems. The carpet is clean, and the wheel is crack-free. The only question mark hanging over the interior hides beneath the dash cover. It is unclear whether the pad has succumbed to age or if the cover is merely a protective measure. The first owner’s decision to order the SS with a column shift and a bench seat makes the Chevelle a genuine six-seater.

I am willing to wager that this 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 will divide reader opinions. Some will contend that it is a prime candidate for a faithful restoration. However, others will believe that as a genuine survivor, preservation is the most appropriate option, as they are only original once. I know those two schools of thought will probably dominate feedback, but it will be fascinating to discover which is the more popular choice. Since the seller is pretty vague about their price, it will be interesting to ascertain what you would pay for this classic. So, it’s over to you for comments.