Original L78: 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Convertible

I’ve often wondered whether the perfect classic actually exists. Some come close, but miss the mark on minor points. This 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Convertible could be a contender, thanks to its superb presentation and the numbers-matching 396ci V8 under the hood. It is no ordinary big-block, with the first owner ordering this SS with the rare L78 version, which delivers mountains of power and torque. Barn Finder Curvette deserves full credit for spotting this amazing drop-top listed here on Bring A Trailer in Denver, Colorado. Bidding has reached $70,000 as of this writing, and with No Reserve to complicate matters, the Chevelle is mere days away from finding a new home.

Chevrolet’s First Generation Chevelle hit showrooms in 1964 and quickly cemented its place in the mid-sized market with healthy sales. The company gave it a facelift in 1966, and the final cars left the line in 1967. Our featured Chevelle is a final-year SS 396 Convertible that makes a stunning first impression. A previous owner restored it in 2016, but because the car was rust-free, it didn’t require cutting and welding, allowing the SS to retain all its original steel. The restorer applied a fresh coat of the original Marina Blue with a contrasting White soft-top and matching stripes. A decade has passed since the work ended, and the Chevelle’s spotless presentation shows the seller cherishes this classic. The paint has a mirror shine, and the panels are laser-straight. The vehicle remains rust-free, while the trim and glass are spotless. Rounding out the exterior is a set of Rally wheels, wrapped in Redline tires. This is only the entrée, because it’s time to tackle the main course.

As the model designation suggests, lifting the Chevelle’s hood reveals a 396ci V8. This isn’t an ordinary big-block, because the first owner went for broke and ticked the box for the L78 version on their Order Form. This is a rare motor, with only 612 Chevelle buyers paying an extra $237 to slot one into their new toy’s engine bay. Chevrolet quoted power and torque figures of 375hp and 415 ft/lbs, although consensus is that both figures were understated. The mountains of power and torque feed to a 12-bolt Posi rear end via a four-speed manual transmission, while power steering and power brakes lighten the driver’s load. Purists considering this classic’s investment potential will welcome the news that it retains its numbers-matching drivetrain. The previous owner refreshed everything during the restoration, and the embedded video in the seller’s listing confirms that the big-block is as smooth as silk. The sale includes the Owner’s Manual, Sales Brochure, and an impressive collection of invoices and paperwork tracking the Chevelle’s history and restoration.

The seller’s listing gallery is comprehensive and reveals an interior that appears flawless. Trimmed in Bright Blue vinyl, it features bucket seats, a console with a factory clock, and an AM/FM radio. I can’t spot any aftermarket additions, just spotless presentation. The vinyl isn’t worn or stretched, and the fitted floor mats have protected the carpet perfectly. The dash and pad are excellent, and there’s no cracked or broken plastic. This Chevelle wouldn’t look out of place on a showroom floor, and would be a trophy contender at any car show.

Although I admit I lean toward cars wearing a Blue-Oval badge, I am, first and foremost, a classic car enthusiast. I admire and respect cars like this 1967 Chevelle SS 396 Convertible because it’s genuinely special. Its presentation is superb, but its mechanical specifications guarantee that it is more than a pretty face. Eleven bids have already been submitted, and the listing statistics suggest that number will climb before the hammer falls. My research confirms that this gem sold at Mecum in 2017 for $104,500, but do you think it will surpass that figure? It will be interesting to gauge your feedback for two reasons. First, to see whether anyone nails the sale price. Second, to see whether any Barn Finds readers decide to be more than interested observers and join the bidding frenzy to become the new owner. I won’t blame you if you do.