While some enthusiasts focus exclusively on originality, others will compromise if the classic in question presents exceptionally well, has no rust issues, and promises exhilarating performance. If you fall into the second category, you could be irresistibly drawn to this 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396. Finding anything to criticize about its presentation is challenging, and its mechanical specifications should pin occupants in their seats if the driver hits the “loud” pedal vigorously. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Chevelle listed here on eBay in West Fargo, North Dakota. The seller set their price at $53,900 OBO for a classic with no apparent needs.
Chevrolet released its Second Generation Chevelle range in 1968. Some people felt that the company’s latest offering wasn’t as elegant as its predecessor, although many enthusiasts and the motoring press applauded the more aggressive styling. Our feature refurbished SS emerged in 1969, and looks stunning in Cortez Silver with a Black vinyl top. The paint shade represents the most profound change to this classic, because the Cowl Tag confirms it left the line wearing Code 52 Garnet Red. Purists may decry the change, but it is still an attractive and classy combination. Finding fault with its presentation is challenging. The paint shines deeply, the panels are free from bumps and bruises, and the vinyl top looks excellent. This car’s beauty is more than skin-deep, with the underside shots confirming its rust-free status. There are no trim or glass issues, and the wheels are spotless.
Lifting the Chevelle’s hood reveals Chevrolet’s legendary 396ci V8. The seller states that the big-block is period and date-correct, suggesting that this classic isn’t numbers-matching. The rest of the drivetrain includes a four-speed Muncie manual transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The factory quoted a power output of 325hp for this V8, but this car may deliver slightly more. It is unclear whether the motor features internal upgrades. Still, with a Mallory ignition system, ceramic-coated headers, and a 2½” mandrel-bent exhaust, there could be a few additional ponies beneath the driver’s right foot. The engine bay presentation is impressive, and it doesn’t flatter to deceive. The seller states that the Chevelle runs and drives perfectly, making it a turnkey proposition for its new owner.
I’m going out on a limb by stating that I don’t believe this Chevelle has a genuine weakness. It is unclear when it underwent a refresh, but the interior is spotless. The Black vinyl trim is immaculate and free from stretching. The carpet is noteworthy because it is spotlessly clean beneath the driver’s feet. The dash and pad are in as-new condition, and although the first owner didn’t load the interior with options, the bucket seats and console make it feel pretty luxurious in a 1969 context. Aftermarket additions include a column-mounted tachometer, an AutoMeter gauge cluster, and a retro-style stereo.
The 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 emerged during the height of the muscle car era, and these classics are more desirable today than when they occupied space on showroom floors. This car isn’t original, but it is still a stunning classic that promises breathtaking performance. The seller’s price isn’t pocket change, but it is consistent with market expectations. The listing statistics suggest it has caught the attention of many enthusiasts, and it will be fascinating to learn whether that interest translates into sales success. Do you believe this SS will find a new home fairly quickly?
The only thing wrong with this car is that it’s not in my garage.
When I look at the lines of this beauty, compared to the 3 March listing of a “modern classic” ’69 Chevelle based on a late model Camaro body, I can only shake my head in disgust at that abomination! GLWTA!! :-)
Great write-up on an all time fave. The only issue I see (other than that it will never be mine) is the color change. I’m not a purist, but the change to a ‘modern’ palette is soul-less, and Garnet is such a striking color.
That’s a dream machine there.
This car is beautiful and I am not a fan of silver in the least. The Butternut 69 Camaro would be a keeper as well!
dealer full boat on the price. personally, i would lose the clown tach and put on my table at the swap meet.
I would do the same thing with the tach and guages. It has a factory tach why not have that one work. Still a nice Chevelle.
Say hairy, along that line. Wasn’t there a factory dash tach in 69? My 72 had one that came with the SS package,
We are all witnessing the end of the Mecum/Barrett-Jackson price bubble era in tier II cars. They did a fantastic job of convincing the public that nice, well presented cars are “investments” that only go up in value.
Alas, they don’t. Using Wall Street lingo, eventually you run out of greater fools. When that happens, all of the existing owners who got in at the highest prices have mental meltdowns, and need to get out of their “investments”. Now. This creates a downward price spiral.
Who wants to join that asylum?
This price is a last gasp at finding a buyer who hasn’t gotten the email that it’s all over. Sure, it’s real nice, but no matching numbers. Poof!
Once a car gets this kind of exceptional makeover, the next buyer now has to treat it like a porcelain doll or else the value diminishes substantially with every cruise it takes.
Weather, sun, gravel, oil leaks, brake dust, parts that break, repairs, on and on.
If you like nice rides that have built-in rapid and steep depreciation, this is your ticket.
All other comments aside–not 100% original, falling market, not investment etc–this is a beauty!
1969 was my favorite year for muscle cars–even though I am a GTO guy–this is gorgeous. High price–yeah! Try building one of your own for the price.
I worked in the performance end of the automotive industry since the late-1980’s. I’ve heard people predicting its imminent demise the entire time, they’ve all been wrong and still are. Values go up, then down, it’s a never ending cycle, the one thing that’s held true is that those makes and models with a strong following maintain their value, those that don’t fade away. That’s not going to change anytime soon, no matter how much the naysayers want it to happen. You often see people justify cars without a strong following by saying, “it will attract a crowd at coffee and cars”, those cars will lead the market down.
Steve R
I only wish I could buy…I’ve been dreaming of buying my High School car I owned back in the mid 70’s
Since then I’ve owned multiple 4 speed muscle cars and currently own a 2019 scat pack Challenger 6 speed but still long for my SS396….maybe it’s just my youth I’m trying to buy back?
As awesome as the ’70 may be a ’69 is still my favorite. Even an L35 doesn’t do it any harm. Other than Daytona yellow, Cortez silver might be most striking.
The body is beautiful but it’s not numbers matching. If it was a L78 motor i could see the price but I believe its a little salty.
Such a nice driver. My choice would have kept it the factory color..but that’s just me. By the look of this stable, from what we can see, has the same brand that I would have on my barn door.
I’m not too far away..
Very nice. Good luck.
Nice to look at but for that price should be closer to original. Still, it’d be fun to own and drive…not happening here.