Chevrolet introduced the 454 cubic inch big block V8 in 1970. The LS6 version was the most powerful at 450 factory horsepower and 500 lb.-ft of torque. These are considered the Holy Grail of Chevy muscle cars and command big bucks. This 1970 Chevelle SS 454 has had a professional restoration and is graded at #2 condition. Located in a garage near Memphis, Tennessee, this car is available here on craigslist and only for those with deep pockets: $175,000. A nod to Jack M. for this grand tip.
The 1970 model year was probably the last for big sales numbers for muscle cars. And the mid-size Super Sport did well with 53,600 assemblies with the SS 396 option and nearly 8,800 with the new SS 454 (this includes both Chevelles and El Caminos). LS6 production numbers were just under 4,500 units, and those cars can command big bucks these days (witness the seller’s vehicle). These engines were designed for some heavy-duty action at the drag strip.
This example is said to have been restored, and its red paint with black stripes may have been the most popular color. But most that you see have black interiors, and this one is red, perhaps adding to its rarity. Besides the monster V8, it should have the M22 “Rock Crusher” 4-speed manual transmission. This car deserves a better presentation than it’s getting. First, I wouldn’t put a $175k car on craigslist (you’re going to get a lot of false inquiries). And, second, the photos provided should have been taken out in the open, not inside a cramped garage.
While the seller’s description is somewhat light, the credentials of the car may not be. We’re told it’s a Best of Show winner in Super Chevy Magazine. And its restoration is graded at #2. Only 2,000 miles have been added to the car since it was redone (rotisserie?), and the seller says there is a lot of paperwork to support the process. If you have a spare 175 large lying around, would this car get your attention?
Before dropping that kind of cash I would check this car from end to end. Why can’t the seller sit it outside and take full side front and rear shots? And why does it have AC vents but no AC compressor? Maybe it’s the Astro ventilation…someone correct me if I am wrong. For this money the car needs at least 75 pics upside, downside and inside.
Those are not AC vents.
Steve R
And why is there a broom handle holding up the hood at that price?
D Doone, I wouldn’t know about the broom handle, I only responded to the lack of AC vents.
It’s a nice car, but not $175k nice.
Steve R
The most serious setup from Chevrolet. Wish you could catch a drive in this Dixon and write a review 😎 🏁
Russ Dixon I agree. Take the Chevy out of the gararge. Wash it well or detail it. And take the max amount of pictures you can put on this site. I will never understand people asking hugh coin for there special ride and its dirty and only 7 photos. How freaking sad!!! If this was mine . I would detail inside and out. And partly sunny day take plenty of pictures even showing the frame,exhaust etc. The 4 speed should be an M22 my 70 Olds 442 455 monster had a M22. I rarely used 1st gear since I had 3.90s posi outback. This Chevy may have 4.11s and you can tell real fast if its the M22 set up. I wish this seller well! 🇺🇸🐻
The M22 was the only manual transmission available with an LS-6, there were only two choices of rear end gearing, 3.31’s or 4.10’s.
Steve R
I love these cars and have owned a couple. The list of things I’ve learned since owning them is long. Perhaps Steve R will recall giving me some helpful tips and knowledge nearly 9 years ago when my first one landed on these very pages. With that said, these cars have continued to rise, but need to be very correct with documentation to bring numbers like this. Just at first glance, I immediately see incorrect valve covers, upper radiator hose, and a Duralast battery. I appreciate the tower clamps, but would like to see a Delco repop at a minimum.
Thank you for the nice words.
Another issue is the red painted firewall and Hurst shifter. I like the shifter upgrade, but if the car is a high dollar restoration the Muncie shifter is a more appropriate choice. I’m I missing a smog pump in the engine pictures?
Steve R