If you’re the type of enthusiast who admits a lack of ability when it comes to panels and paint, but you still long to tackle a project build, this 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 might be right up your alley. It is a rust-free classic featuring fresh paint and a big-block under the hood. Final assembly and mechanical tinkering are all that stand between this SS and life on the open road. The seller has listed the Chevelle here on eBay in Fort Payne, Alabama. Bidding currently sits below the reserve at $9,200 with plenty of time for interested parties to stake their claim.
The seller provides limited information regarding the history of this Chevelle. However, the listing images suggest that it recently received a fresh layer of paint. They chose Black in a clear-over-base process that should provide a mirror finish once the buyer completes the assembly and applies a final layer of polish. The White stripes contrast beautifully, and the panels are free from noticeable dings and dents. The best news is this car’s rust-free status, as confirmed by the image gallery, which shows that the floors and trunk pan are in excellent condition. The vehicle appears to be missing its front bumper, although the remaining trim, glass, and Rally II wheels are in good condition.
The seller confirms that this Chevelle isn’t numbers-matching. The engine block casting number indicates that the big-block is a 396/402 produced between 1969 and 1972. Therefore, although it isn’t original, it is period-correct. The remaining major mechanical components include a three-speed Turbo 400 automatic transmission, a 12-bolt rear end, power steering, and power front disc brakes. The 1970 model year was transitional, with Chevrolet increasing the capacity of the 396 big-block to 402ci. However, the company continued to market the motor as a 396 to maximize brand recognition. The seller states that this big-block doesn’t run, although it turns freely. Given the robust nature of these engines, revival may not be difficult if an in-person inspection doesn’t reveal any nasty surprises.
One of the greatest mysteries surrounding this SS is its interior. The entire dash is intact, although the pad is cracked. Beyond that, we’re essentially flying blind. It appears to be missing the seats, door trims, carpet, and other upholstered items. None of the components are visible in the photos, suggesting that the buyer may need to write a long shopping list of parts to return the inside of this Chevelle to a serviceable state. Still, it provides the ideal opportunity to select the material color and type to personalize this ride.
This 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 is loaded with potential and could easily turn heads when returned to its rightful place on our roads. The Listing View and Watch List tallies of 730 and 60, respectively, have translated into a healthy 23 bids. It appears that there are plenty of people who can imagine themselves behind the wheel, and I suspect that the action may intensify in the final hours. Are you tempted to join what could easily become a bidding war for this classic?
looks like the last car this seller sold he got bad feedback on as not being true full buyers beware on this guy! as i don’t think you can prove it’s a real SS innless you have the build sheet …???
They are incredibly easy and inexpensive to fake.
Power disc brakes were standard, but this one looks to have a drum brake master cylinder. A picture of the instrument cluster and trim tag would have been nice, though they don’t “prove” anything.
Steve R
Steve, a few of the first Chevelles SS to come off the assembly line, actually had drum brakes, as they used up parts from the carry over 69 Chevelle years. My 70 Chevelle SS does have the drum brakes, and it orginated out of KC plant, which was known for producing a great majority of the 70 SS Chevelles, and was ordered by a dealer in Wisconsin. Also, please do not forget, Individual customers who were not so keen on the disc brakes, could have also ordered the drum brakes instead…
I’ve never seen mention of the ability to have 1969 or newer Chevelle SS ordered with drum brakes, power or otherwise. It’s always possible, but I wouldn’t believe it for any particular car unless it had some form of factory documentation.
Steve R
The auction image #5 shows the poor alignment of the driver’s door and the rocker panel. The next image shows the gap between the fender and that door. Quality bodywork isn’t under the paint. If I was looking, I’d keep looking.
Not too confident this is a true SS, automatic on the column? Not.
A bench seat and column shift were standard equipment for an SS. There are other things to look for, none of which are shown clearly in this ad.
Steve R
Jerry, there were Chevelle SS cars manufactured with the bench seat and atuomatic on the column…you would actually be surprised how many of these Chevelles were produced….especially with inner city driving and tons of stop lights and passanger room up front!
Another often overlooked item is the big-block specific steering shaft and coupler, it is different from the small block cars and most of those building clones don’t bother to change them out. This car has been for sale here before…
Among other things, like the TH400 kickdown, fuel lines, etc.
Steve R
almost there why bail now unless there is a dirty secret
The floors seem to look solid along with the trunk. which is a good starting point. but more undercariage pictures would be needed and hope the interior picies comes with it. Maybe go down on the price to 8k-9k. Other things to such as missing A/C compresor and outer trim pieces.
“This listing was ended by the seller on Mon, Nov 10 at 5:16 AM because the item is no longer available.”