When GM went to the colonnade body style, many enthusiasts were not happy with the huge bumpers and bulky looks. Flash forward 50 years and these cars are gaining interest. This example is particularly interesting because it is a 1973 Chevrolet Chevelle SS built with a 454 cubic inch V8 engine. It is listed here on Craigslist for $15,000. The 1973 Chevrolet Chevelle SS is located in Euless, Texas which is a suburb of Fort Worth. The car was just listed today. We appreciate Rocco B for sending us the listing.
The ’73 Chevelle SS 454 was the last iteration of the second generation of Chevelle Super Sport models. Under its hood resides a smog laden 454 cubic inch V8 engine that still produced a ton of torque. Due to tightening emission standards and the introduction of new regulations, this engine had its power significantly reduced compared to its predecessors. In 1973, the engine was rated at 245 horsepower, a considerable drop from its earlier versions due to modifications aimed at compliance with emission regulations. The car appears to have an aftermarket intake, valve covers and air cleaner.
The black interior is not all stock. The seats appear to be recovered and someone has cut speakers into the door panels. The steering wheel is also not original and appears to be off a 1990’s GM truck. Externally, the ’73 Chevelle SS 454 had a muscular and iconic design, but changes were evident, including revised front-end styling and larger, federally mandated impact-absorbing bumpers. These modifications were part of the industry-wide adaptation to meet safety regulations introduced during that era. This 454-equipped Chevelle SS is equipped with a floor shifted automatic transmission and factory console.
Sales figures for the ’73 Chevelle SS 454 were affected by the changing landscape of the automotive industry. Factors such as rising fuel costs, insurance premiums for high-performance vehicles, and stricter emissions regulations contributed to a decline in sales. Chevrolet produced 4,298 SS 454 models for the year, marking a decrease in production compared to previous years.
Very nice ride for 73′
Only a 3.42 gear⚙️ with this Turbo Hydramatic was offered.
A 4spd Muncie was available with the 3.42, or an optional 2.73 🏁
I think the 4sp w the taller gear would have been a cool setup in this Heavy Chevy..
I know where there are 2 of these with original 4spds, been trying to get a deal done on one for a couple of years
Anyone know where those seats came from? I was guilty of cutting door speakers on my ’72 Caprice and have detested it ever since. I came to my senses enough to have ’73 replacement panels.
Author said the steering wheel looked like it came from a pickup. Isn’t this vehicle from Texas? 🤭
Always liked the colanade body but better have a parts car if you damage this because Nobody supports these in the aftermarket!Go ahead, ask me how I know.
Those seats look like swivel buckets that have been reupholstered. The console is factory with a reupholstered top on the lid. I would be more than happy to own this car, but $15000 seems a little pricey.
No one could ever imagine that these would be anything. I used many of these including one equipped like this for the Enduro, circle dirt races. 5 to 700.00 was it for very nice one owner copies that would end their lives in a season or two if they were lucky.
October issue of Hemmings Motor News listed a 454 4 speed w/AC for $22,500
Cutting up hard to find door panels.that had to been done awhile back.ive always liked this body style.
Every body cut the panels. Welcome to the 80s. I did everything from a 60 Caddy convertible to a ….Egads, Challenger convertible. They were just used cars and we had fun and enjoyed them.