The iconic Chevelle SS 396 was an option on the Malibu in 1970 (rather than being a separate series as it had been from 1966 to 1968). More than 51,000 copies were built and most had the 350 hp L34 engine. So, the muscle car market wasn’t dead yet, though the Grim Reaper was already lurking. This one has sadly been languishing for some time (probably outdoors) and will need a complete (and expensive) restoration. From Hickory, in the Tar Heel State of North Carolina, this true SS is available here on eBay. And a reserve has been set somewhere out from the current bid of $11,600.
By 1970, the SS 396 was no longer a 396 as the engine’s displacement had been increased to 402 cubic inches. Perhaps this was done to confuse insurance agents who already knew the hot reputation of the 396 motor. Yet the car was still marketed as a 396, so this point somewhat escapes me. The 1970 model year also saw the introduction of Chevrolet’s biggest passenger car engine, the 454. Nearly 9,000 buyers opted for that powerhouse. The seller ascertains this car is a real SS because of the tattered build sheet that comes with the car (that’s one of the few ways to defect one as being legit).
We wish we knew the history of this Chevrolet. Did something mechanical break, causing the car to be left to the elements or did it simply get forgotten until it got to the point of no longer being drivable? It’s said to be matching numbers, a plus regardless of the condition of the vehicle. And a TH-400 automatic transmission should be there, too.
The dark green paint has long since given up the ghost and corrosion in peeking through in many places like the rear quarter panels. Also, the floorboards have holes in them, so the undercarriage is going to need attention, too. The seller mentions the Chevy only had one prior owner, which is a bit shocking considering the current state of the automobile. If you’ve been looking for an SS 396 to restore, is this one within the confines of your budget?
It is amazing to me that someone couldn’t care less about the car until it is a POJunk, and then suddenly decide it is worth big money, please! Considering the expense of resurrecting this heap, they should be glad to get $1000 and wave goodbye and good luck to the buyer! More than any salvage yard would pay?
I was wondering what happened to the chevelle from Dazed and confused, the consensus was it’s in hiding. What a shame, to have such a car, a rolling piece of artwork and you have to keep it hidden. I’m grateful to have had cars like this and been able to drive them, out on the road. Now they’re investments, a lot of money to buy, to insure and they pretty much have to either go in a trailer to a show and then back again. The new owner will have a plan and hopefully they’ll be able to see it through and not end up in pieces, for sale because of ?
I just returned from North Carolina, I was amazed at how many homes had NO Garage or even a carport. As a car guy it was so sad seeing nice cars sitting out in the hot sun or rain every day / all day. For years . I always looked at motor vehicles as an investment. Second to your house the most expense one at that.
What a shame to let a vehicle get this bad. At least find some place to store it inside out of the elements. The trunk picture makes me sick to see what mother nature can do. At least years latter the vehicle might need some work but not major floor and body rust repair.
Too late pop cans
Seems to be some misunderstanding with semantics with some of these sellers have/had is/was etc. And what’s even harder for me to wrap my head around is the number of people bidding on the was. Rust isn’t gold.
Man… I really don’t like how someone’s dream is just going to rot because the owner are too greedy with the sale price. This vehicle for the right price have all the potential to be brought back to its former glory while having an owner that will enjoy her and take care of her for years to come.
The auction has been bid past its reserve with 3+ days left, so how is the seller greedy at this point?
Steve R
Because the have-nots are upset they can’t get it for $150. Same people bashing the seller’s price would be trying to get as much as possible if it were theirs.