Like many things in life, not all muscle cars are equal. Take the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 as an example. It is an iconic vehicle offering outstanding performance. However, the first owner of our feature car took it to the next level, ordering this classic with the L78 version of the big-block. It wasn’t a popular option, but it lifted the car’s performance without breaking the bank. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Chevelle listed here on eBay in Ocoee, Florida. Bidding sits below the reserve at $25,600, but the time remaining and listing statistics suggest the action could intensify very quickly.
Chevrolet released its Second Generation Chevelle range for the 1968 model year. The newcomer bore no visual relationship to its predecessor, with the revised styling giving the Chevelle a greater sense of visual presence. This SS 396 rolled off the line in 1970, and its Build Sheet provides interesting reading. It confirms the first owner ordered it in Tuxedo Black with contrasting White stripes and the optional ZL2 Cowl Induction hood. Although not specifically stated, the listing indicates this classic received a high-end repaint at some point, helping to explain the mirror shine. Gloss Black paint is perfect for revealing panel imperfections, but this SS appears laser-straight. It is rust-free, which is excellent news for potential bidders. The stripes are crisp, the trim and glass are immaculate, and the 15″ SS wheels are free from physical damage and stains.
Okay, it’s time to get to the business end of proceedings. Although Chevrolet marginally enlarged the bore of its 396ci big-block in 1970, increasing the capacity to 402ci, it continued marketing it as the 396 due to brand recognition. Ordering an SS 396 brought the L34 variant, delivering 350hp and 415 ft/lbs of torque. However, those wishing to splash out an additional $210.65 could opt for the L78 version, which pushes power to 375hp. It represented pretty respectable value for money, but with only 2,144 buyers ticking the box, it is relatively rare. This car’s first owner selected that motor, a three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission, a 3.55 rear end, power steering, and power front disc brakes. The seller confirms that although the engine block is no longer original, it carries the correct date code. The engine bay presents as impressively as the rest of the car, and doesn’t flatter to deceive. This SS is ready to head into the sunset with its new owner behind the wheel.
The positive vibes generated by this SS continue when we focus on its interior. Trimmed in Black vinyl, it features bucket seats, a console, a sports gauge cluster with a factory tachometer, and a pushbutton radio. Its appearance is as impressive as the exterior, with no cosmetic issues or shortcomings. The vinyl is excellent, there is no carpet wear, and the only visible aftermarket addition is the wheel wrap. My only criticism is purely personal, and that is the fact that this classic doesn’t feature air conditioning. The Tuxedo Black paint and matching interior trim could make life uncomfortable in hot climates. However, I’m sure that if push came to shove, I could live with it! Otherwise, this interior will generate plenty of positive comments thanks to its presentation.
This 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 is a stunning classic. The L78 engine option increases its desirability, which will probably at least partly motivate a late surge in bidding for a vehicle that is inherently desirable. It needs nothing and is ideal for enthusiasts seeking a turnkey muscle car that will receive many admiring looks and loads of respect. I would typically quote a potential value, but I’ve decided to take a different approach. An online search revealed another listing for this classic, providing an idea of the seller’s expectations. That advertisement quotes an asking price of $119,970, which may be a guide to the seller’s auction reserve. Do you feel that figure is justified, or do you have another price in mind?
Gorgeous car! The L78 is more rare than the LS6 and other than 52 CI, is essentially the same engine. Is it worth $120k? The market will tell, but I’ve seen a slump in sales. If this car had the original engine, I could see $120 large. Even though a date code correct, or CE block is the next best thing, it’s not the original engine, which collectors want, if they’re going to drop that much cheddar on.
The engine won’t hurt the value since it is the period correct replacement block from the dealership. That is what you or collectors want when the engine block is not original. The original engine could of blown up or had something else happen where it needed to be replaced. The paint looks incomplete without having the stripes on the roof. The no stripes on the roof was for the convertible cars this is a hard top put the stripes on the roof.
Chevrolet never put stripes on the roof, That is a Ford thing. No Chevrolet collector would ever look at a Chevelle SS or a Z28 with stripes on the roof. That is so wrong.
Beautiful Chevelle. Personally, I don’t care for a black car, too hard to keep clean. Black shows any flaws but also shows the first speck of dust.
As for the engine, too much emphasis is on having the original engine. As long as it was replaced with the same as the original, I would never knock it.
She’s a beaut with some obvious (flaws?). It a ’70 SS with what we assume is a solid lifter motor and it’s black. You don’t get air with one of these. What you do get is the 1970 driving experience. Fast as can be but you better bring a dry shirt to change into.