Genuine Chevelle SS396s fetch good money these days, but we see lots of projects that seem to be going for more than they probably should. Obviously, it usually boils down to options and condition, but it doesn’t make sense to spend $10k on a rusty shell that’s missing everything when you can buy this stalled restoration project for about the same money. It’s missing its transmission and the paint job isn’t the best, but you’d be further ahead than a rust bucket that needs everything. You can find this Chevelle here on eBay in Reno, Nevada with a current bid of $10,100 and no reserve.
With 6 days still to go on the auction, there’s a good chance it will go up quite a bit more, but even if it doubles in price, you’d still be better off than buying a cheaper rougher project. You will want to check all the numbers out to see which version of the 396 it has and whether this is the original engine. Even base L35 SS396s are going for $40k or more these days, so at $20k or less, it seems like it would be a good buy.
The interior is apart, but it appears the seller has all the major components and that they are in good shape. Based on the paint that can be seen on the doors and behind the rear seat, this car was originally bright red. The current Leaf Gold color is nice, but I think I’d rather have it in red.
At its current bid, this really does seem like a good buy. There’s still a lot to be done here but looks like it could be a project just about anyone could take on. You’ll want to get it inspected closely and check out all the numbers, but you should with any classic you buy online. So, do you think this one is a good buy and how much do you think it will end up going for?
Nice car. I’d take it all day every day for $10K, even if there’s a scratch in the hood. The pictures look like it’s really clean and the VIN says it’s a California built SS 396 car that looks like it’s straight and never left the west.
It looks like a Rochester carburetor and cast iron intake to me, so I’d guess it’s either a 325 Hp or 350 HP 396 motor. As Josh said, which motor it is and matching numbers means a lot to the value of the car. There’s no mention of motor condition or if it even turns by hand. Also the eBay ad says “manual transmission” but doesn’t say if it’s a Muncie 4 speed or what condition it’s in.
The interior is also confusing. One place says “Bench seat,” another says “Leather interior,” and there is a picture of some normal looking Chevelle bucket seats and door panels.
If you’re local, going to look at it is easy. I wouldn’t bid without knowing what is really there. It looks really good, but if it’s a 70’s smog motor with a 3 speed transmission you could get a decent car but not a great car for the money.
18 bids and no reserve, Might be shill bids as well. But the car *IS* nice, Chevelles do well both in restomods and restorations so its a money car, But for sure needs a skilled FPI. # NOTE: Round trip mid week airfare to Reno is often cheap, make it a vacation! Plus Virginia city is fun to visit! So is Tahoe!
So, Im not crazy about the color and its a strange mix of missing stuff and weird partially completed work. Tranny is missing so, I cant quite tell if thats a clutch pedal or a Brake pedal in the pix. So for sure FPI.
Now personally, If really numbers matching, Id pull the motor and run it with a real big block. 454 and put 396 stickers on it, But a small block makes a much better driver. So my advice is preserve its heritage and dont butcher anything, But make it a functional and safe driver and then put it on the road. (tasteful bolt ons such as improved disc brakes and a handling package will enhance the experience)
Be interesting if really sells or shows up over and over.
The seller doesn’t give enough information to determine what an accurate bid would be. It is a real SS based on its VIN, but 1968’s don’t have the same value as the other late-60’s thru 1970 SS’s. The shiny paint doesn’t mean it isn’t a lot of rust or other issues hiding underneath a thick layer of bondo. The interior is likely vinyl, not leather, that mis-labeling has become a common misrepresentation, it’s hard to tell if it’s through ignorance or willful deception. This car will likely need a lot of time and money spent tracking down the parts needed to finish and to reassemble. As others have mentioned, a thorough first hand inspection would be a must before making a serious bid.
Steve R
For some reason, 69 Chevelle SS’s are everywhere. 68’s seem so much rarer. Folks may have been reluctant to buy the first year of that new body style. I like the more understated rear ends of the 68’s, but definitely not sayin’ I’d throw a 69 out of bed.
Salivating!!
I had one that was the sam color. Sure wish I had never sold, (given it away), for 1,200$ when I was going overseas in 1970. I loved that car.