Potent 4-Speed: 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396

If you are unable to tackle a project build, you will either abandon your ownership dreams or purchase a turnkey classic to fulfill your heart’s desire. If you are determined to park something special in your garage, this 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 could be a contender. It has a known ownership history and presents superbly following a comprehensive refresh in 2016. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the SS listed here on eBay in Scottsdale, Arizona. Handing the seller $47,000 would allow you to drive home behind the wheel of this classic.

After its release for the 1968 model year, Chevrolet made some significant changes to its Second Generation Chevelle range in 1970. Acres of new steel gave the car a refreshed look, and it would carry those updates through to the moment when the last cars rolled off the line in 1972. This 1970 Chevelle is a fire-breathing SS 396 with a known history. The first owner purchased the vehicle in California, before later relocating to Arizona. It has remained there, even after the first owner passed the car to a family member, from whom the seller purchased it a few months ago. Life in a dry climate has protected the Chevelle from the typical rust issues, while a refresh performed in 2016 ensured that its presentation is first-rate. The seller refers to that process as a restoration, but I view it as a refurbishment. The first witness for the prosecution is the paint shade, which doesn’t match anything on that year’s Chevelle color chart. It looks close to Garnet Red, a shade that wasn’t available in 1970. However, if originality isn’t a priority, there’s still a lot to like. The paint holds a mirror shine, while the panels are laser-straight. The gaps are tight and consistent, and the trim and glass are excellent.

When is a 396 big-block not a 396 big-block? The answer is in 1970, when Chevrolet increased the bore by 0.030″ to push the capacity to 402ci. However, it continued to market the motor as a 396, because the designation enjoyed strong buyer recognition. That is largely irrelevant, because this Chevelle isn’t numbers-matching. The block suffix confirms that the 396 was cast in 1969. The seller indicates that it is the L34 variant, meaning that it should churn out at least 350hp and 415 ft/lbs of torque. The car’s remaining specifications are equally mouth-watering, comprising a four-speed manual transmission, a 12-bolt Posi rear end, power steering, and power front disc brakes. Potential buyers can consider the SS a turnkey proposition. The seller states that the big-block springs to life at a twist of the key, the transmission is smooth, and that the car drives flawlessly. Flying in and driving home is a viable option for the buyer to consider.

We’ve established that this Chevelle doesn’t feature its original motor, and appears to have undergone a color change. The interior further emphasizes my belief that it is refurbished, courtesy of its Black and Red trim combination. The Red stripe in each seat center continues onto the dashpad and the rear parcel tray, and I’m not sold on the look. The seats are one thing, but the pad looks odd in a vehicle of this type. Moving beyond personal preference, the interior looks extremely tidy. There is no wear on the carpet or upholstered surfaces, while the dash, pad, and plastic haven’t succumbed to UV exposure. Aftermarket additions include a sports wheel, an underdash gauge cluster, and an AM/FM radio/cassette player.

I tend to be pretty firm on the subject, and would describe this 1970 Chevelle SS 396 as refurbished, not restored. I base that belief on several factors, including its non-original big-block and the apparent color change and interior modifications. However, I still think that it is a stunning vehicle that would provide its new owner with years of motoring pleasure. The SS has generated enormous interest since hitting the market, but considering the factors already mentioned, do you think someone will hit the button to take it home?