The SS 454 made its debut in 1970, adding even more punch to any Malibu, El Camino, or Monte Carlo so equipped. Muscle car mania had begun to subside and the 1971 model year would be the last before detuning for lower emissions would begin to take hold. This really rough ’71 Chevelle Malibu may be a real-deal SS 454, but it’s a roller with an engine that’s not original and in need of work. Available here on eBay, the current bid is just $510 for a serious project or parts car in Floyds Knobs, Indiana.
Demand for Chevelle SS cars was off 64% from 1970 to 1971. Instead of 53,599 units so optioned in ’70, the number dropped to 19,293 copies. 9,502 of them were SS 454s with the rest having a 396 cubic inch V8. Two versions of the 454 were available in 1971 with a minimum output of 360 horsepower. The seller says this rusty beast still has its factory 12-bolt rear end that we’re told has a 454 code stamped into it. What’s left of the car includes the front disc brakes. The only thing remaining of the interior is the dash which the seller plans to remove before the sale is completed.
Rust is rampant and there’s nothing left of the red paint the seller says the Chevy once wore. If you bought this car for its parts, you’re going to be hard-pressed to find much that won’t need repair for use with another project. There is no title, but a cowl tag has survived. You’ll get a 454 engine to work with, but it has a split cylinder and the rest will need attention. The seller is willing to put back on a pair of heads and an intake manifold. In the listing, the seller clicked the box that says, “Lemon & Manufacturer Buyback.” Would you take a chance on this one?
Nothing to see here, move along…
I’ve seen cars laying in yards for years in NY weather, you have to try to get a car that bad. I can only imagine what it looks like underneath.
rip.
You are basically buying a pitted 12 bolt rear housing, sway bar and control arms. The housing shows it came in 454 SS’s car, but it’s not even limited slip. It’s basically been parted out, the seller saying he’s keeping the dash and wiring is about the only item of real value left on the car.
Trim tags on a 1971 Chevelle don’t verify if it’s an SS. This may be a real SS 454, but there is no proof or parts worth building around.
Steve R
The weathered wiring is just a car fire waiting to happen on car.
I wonder if the dash plastic snaps upon removal.
I restored a 63 split window that was parked in doors for 40 years.
The wiring in car started producing white smoke in multiple places in route to paint. I basically pulled all fuse except ignition to complete last two miles of a ten mile drive.
Paint shop unhooked battery terminal and I had a rollback deliver to house .
Spent 1300 dollars on replacement wires then tossed every wire completely from headlights to dash to dome light and tail lights .
I am happy to say all good now.
I still use a quick connect on battery for winters as its too valuable left alone plus clock will pull battery down .
A shame on carcass of Chevelle left.
I understand why the seller will take the dash, but the wiring only works for a non-tach round gauge cluster. The prize is the dash itself, which appears to have not been modified for an aftermarket radio, reproductions aren’t exact, reproduction gauge clusters and wiring are easily available, that’s where the money is. I agree, 50 year old wiring that’s been exposed to the elements should be thrown away.
Steve R
Agreed with Steve R about the non 12 bolt rear and associated parts. Maybe a few other small parts like the non tilt wheel but that’s it.Too much rust! It has a 1972 grille and headlamp bezels.
Just leave it at the curb on garbage night… what heap nothing salvageable…..
A completely valueless piece of crap. Junk it. The war is over.
It had a ’72 grille.
It has a ’72 grille.
This is a 72 manufactured in late 71 and there doesn’t appear to be any real good parts to save maybe glass and taillights if the seller doesn’t decide to take those to
’72 grille, ’71 front turn signals
How much does it weigh?
Sorry, I’m a retired wrecking yard owner.😏
Didn’t the 1971 have a cowl induction? One of my peers from high school used his Viet Nam money to buy a gorgeous 1970 454 SS. We had been known to compare acceleration on rare occasions and my observation was when the flap went up I had better be ready.I am hardly expert testimony, but I do not see any value here, regardless of the rarity. I would install the dual headlight grille if I had a car like this anyway. I have my Mom’s adage ringing in my head “if you don’t have anything good to say……..”
You have got to be kidding me???? The mere fact that the owner even had the courage to list this thing simply amazes me. And he’s keeping the dash? This has got to be the low bar for a “classic” car for sale. I am simply dumbfounded.
If the people bidding on this car, really are serious about spending their money? Just send the guy some cash, and tell him to keep the car.
Call Fred Sanford. Why people try to sell garbage is beyond me.
It can be saved and if the floors are not wasted completely is worth the effort.