It isn’t unusual for us to see unfinished projects here at Barn Finds, but this 1968 Chevelle SS 396 has reached the point where the finish line is in sight. It needs someone to complete the work that will return this iconic American muscle car to its rightful place on our roads. The indications are that it should be a straightforward process. With a few months left before the warmer weather lands, that represents a golden opportunity for some enjoyable classic motoring when summer finally arrives. Located in Houston, Texas, you will find the SS listed for sale here on Facebook. You could take this Chevelle home by handing the owner $23,000.

It isn’t clear whether the Chevelle has spent its life in Texas, but if it has, that will help to explain its lack of rust. The supplied photos are pretty limited, but the owner says there are no apparent problems. He purchased the vehicle in its current state a few months ago, intent on returning it to its former glory. However, overseas travel has seen the project stall, so he has decided that the SS needs to go to someone able to complete the work. If the car is rust-free, it seems that the panels will require minimal work and preparation before a fresh coat of color is applied. There is evidence to indicate that the Chevelle rolled off the line wearing Matador Red paint, and it would look stunning in its original shade. Of course, with the project at its current stage, that would allow the next owner the opportunity to perform a change with little effort. The chrome and trim appear to be in good condition, as are the glass and wheels. Taken at face value, this Chevelle seems to offer a lot to its next owner.

The defining characteristic of this SS rests in what we find under the hood. The specifications are pretty mouthwatering, including a 396ci big-block V8, a four-speed manual transmission, a 12-bolt rear end, power steering, and power front disc brakes. It isn’t clear which version of the 396 we’re looking at, but there should be at least 325hp available under the driver’s right foot. That means that it should be able to blast through the ¼ mile in 14.7 seconds. The seller doesn’t expressly state that the SS is numbers-matching but conveys that impression. He admits that the previous owner fitted an HEI ignition system, but there may be other changes worth considering. It appears to wear a set of headers and a different intake. That could mean a welcome power increase, although it may not suit some purists. He says that the engine runs well, although it isn’t clear whether the Chevelle is mechanically roadworthy. If it isn’t, getting it to that point may be a rewarding task for the new owner to tackle themselves.

One aspect of this Chevelle that won’t demand attention is its interior. The previous owner performed a retrim in Black vinyl, with it now presenting in a factory-fresh state. There is no evidence of wear or physical damage, and with bucket seats and a console, it makes a positive impression. The original radio has made way for a CD player, and it appears that the installer cut the dash to fit this. If someone seeks authenticity, this change will take some time and money to reverse. However, if that isn’t a significant concern, the CD player should provide excellent in-car entertainment on long journeys. Beyond that, this interior appears to need nothing.

If the information supplied in the listing is accurate, returning this 1968 Chevelle SS 396 to active duty should not be a difficult or expensive undertaking. These remain one of the more desirable muscle cars in today’s classic market, and good examples can command impressive prices. Even if we ignore the investment potential and focus on its character traits, it will allow its next owner the opportunity to slip behind the wheel of a vehicle that offers muscular good looks and performance that should satisfy most enthusiasts. The car has been on the market for a while now, and I’m surprised that the owner hasn’t had any serious interest. Are you going to be the person who addresses this by parking the Chevelle in your garage?