Real Deal: 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396

The classic market is currently awash with tributes to some of America’s most iconic muscle cars. They provide an excellent alternative to the genuine article, offering an equivalent driving experience at a typically lower cost. This 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 is the real deal. Someone performed a color change, but it retains its numbers-matching drivetrain. Therefore, returning this gem to its factory form could be a realistic goal for buyers who prefer authenticity. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the SS listed here on eBay in Chatsworth, California. The seller set their auction to open at $40,000, but there have been no bids so far.

Chevrolet’s First Generation Chevelle was a sales hit from the moment it hit the market in 1964. Released to steal sales from Ford’s Fairlane, it remained on sale until being replaced by a Second Generation in 1968. This Chevelle rolled off the line in 1967, and while it looks extremely tidy, it isn’t original. The Cowl Tag states that it was ordered by its first owner in Code E Deepwater Blue, although it was later color-changed to its current Provincial White. Therefore, this SS doesn’t make the cut as a genuine survivor. The winning bidder may elect to reverse that change, while others will consider the Chevelle as a tidy driver-grade classic. The paint shines nicely, the panels are straight, and there is no evidence or mention of rust. With clean trim, glass, and a sparkling set of Rally wheels, this Chevelle makes a positive first impression.

The positive vibes continue inside this Chevelle, with its Black vinyl interior free from major problems. It looks essentially stock, although the glovebox houses a concealed modern stereo. The vinyl looks crisp and clean, the dash is excellent, and the pad is crack-free. It may lack touches like air conditioning and power windows, but the console-mounted clock and sports tilt wheel are welcome features that increase the car’s desirability.

The Chevelle SS offered respectable performance in its original form, but Chevrolet’s decision to slot the 396ci V8 under the hood transformed it into a brutal beast worthy of its muscle car label. The big-block placed 325hp and 410 ft/lbs of torque at the driver’s disposal, meaning the SS 396 didn’t ask for respect; it demanded it! This classic features its numbers-matching drivetrain, including its V8, four-speed manual transmission, and 12-bolt rear end. However, the seller confirms a motor rebuild that included an over-bore, upgraded internal components, Hedman headers, an Edelbrock aluminum intake, and a Holley carburetor. That will probably deter purists, but it guarantees that this big-block will generate considerably more power than it would have in stock form. The seller confirms that this SS runs and drives extremely well, and is a turnkey proposition.

The opening bid of $40,000 makes it impossible to classify this 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 as an affordable classic. However, with the Listing View and Watch List tallies of 330 and 32, respectively, it has undeniably drawn plenty of attention. Reversing the color change would add to the investment cost if the new owner wishes the car to present as it would have when it left the showroom floor. Whether that approach is financially viable will depend on the sale price, although some readers will argue that when combined with the mechanical upgrades, it would be wiser to leave this SS untouched as a high-end driver. Do you agree?