Sometimes finding a desirable classic with a different engine under the hood can prove positive. That might be the case with this 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396. The seller swapped in a larger and more powerful motor but includes the original big-block for those wishing to reinstate its numbers-matching status. It presents beautifully and comes with a couple of interesting options. The SS is listed here on Craigslist in Rogers, Arkansas. They set their price at $65,000, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Pat L. for spotting this muscle classic.

Chevrolet introduced its Second Generation Chevelle in 1968, electing to make minor cosmetic changes for the following year. The new Generation included significant styling changes that gave the car a sense of presence, especially if the buyer ordered an SS396 as their new toy. This ’69 SS presents superbly in Fathom Green. The lashings of chrome and bright trim add a welcome contrast to such a dark shade, helping the car to look lighter. The paint shines magnificently, with no visible flaws in the supplied photos. The panels are straight, and the seller says the floors and trunk pan are rock solid. The Chevelle rolls on aftermarket wheels, but five original SS wheels are included. The glass looks spotless, making the overall first impression positive.

Before we assess the beast lurking under this Chevelle’s hood, we must consider how focused the original owner was on outright performance when ordering this classic. They selected the L78 version of the 396ci V8. A four-speed M22 “Rock Crusher” transmission fed the engine’s 375hp to a 3.73 Posi rear end. That combination was as good as a buyer got with an SS 396, allowing the car to demolish the ¼ mile in 14.2 seconds. The seller modified this Chevy, but it is not bad news. They removed the numbers-matching big-block and Posi rear end. In their places, we find a 454 crate motor pumping out 475hp to a narrowed 9″ Posi. Purists may hyperventilate at the modifications, but two positive aspects are worth considering. The first is the original V8, and rear end are included, allowing the new owner to return the car to its factory specifications. Secondly, using this classic in its current state allows the buyer to drive the car to their heart’s content without placing wear on the original components. I see that as a potential win/win with this turnkey beauty.

If the Chevelle’s exterior makes a positive impression, its interior continues that theme. The original owner ordered the car trimmed in Black vinyl, ticking the boxes beside the center console and sports gauge cluster with the factory tachometer. The interior presents superbly, with no evidence of wear or abuse. The seats are flawless, as are the carpet, dash, and pad. There are no aftermarket additions, and the factory AM radio occupies its rightful place. The biggest surprise for me was the original owner’s decision to order this SS with power windows. They are a welcome touch of luxury in a hard-core muscle car.

The 1969 Chevelle SS 396 is an unapologetically brutal muscle car. If treated carefully, it can be a pussy cat, but flooring the gas transforms it into a growling tiger. This car presents superbly, and the new owner can enjoy it immediately without fear of wearing out its original motor. Returning it to its factory form would not be challenging and is an option that the new owner may elect to pursue. Doing so would make the existing big-block surplus to requirements, and selling it could recoup some of the initial purchase costs. Is that a path you might consider treading?