1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS

Description

GM really got things right with the 1968-72 A-bodies like this gorgeous 1971 Chevelle convertible. Perfectly proportioned and able to accommodate any engine on the roster, they were the ultimate factory-built custom cars. Today, convertibles like this one are just about the most fun you can have with your clothes on.

To many, the Chevelle was the ultimate A-body, and this SS tribute certainly lives up to the reputation. A lot of folks prefer the single-headlight look of the '71s, and combined with the striking code 905 Nevada Silver paint job, complete with black SS stripes, the result is a car that gets noticed everywhere it goes. The sheetmetal appears to be in excellent condition and the paint has been recently wet sanded and buffed to give it a very high-quality look. The paint is two-stage urethane, so it has an impossibly brilliant shine, and with the stripes embedded under the clear, the look is seamless. SS upgrades include the blacked-out grille, hood pins, a cowl-induction hood, and proper badges throughout, and there are few more menacing views in a rear-view mirror than a Chevelle SS thundering up behind you. It's also got some very nice chrome, particularly the bumpers which look almost new, and there's something special about fresh chrome on a silver car that really gets attention.

Black buckets wrap around an optional center console, giving this ragtop an interior to match its spectacular bodywork. Replacement seat covers with leather inserts, new carpets, and reproduction SS door panels give it a new outlook on life, and the upscale trim of this particular Chevelle makes it feel like a much more upscale car. The factory instruments give a comprehensive look at what's going on under the hood, including a factory tach, making this one of the most convincing SS tributes we've featured. This car also includes factory A/C which blows ice cold thanks to genuine R12 refrigerant in the system, which also uses a modern Sanden compressor for easy serviceability. A powerful Pioneer AM/FM/CD stereo was custom fitted to the dash and powers speakers cleverly hidden throughout the interior, and there's a cool 4-spoke steering wheel that looks right in the vintage Chevy's interior. Overhead, there's a black power convertible top, complete with glass rear window, and you'll be pleased to see that the trunk is outfitted with a well-installed mat and a chrome Rally wheel as a spare.

While a wide variety of V8s were available in the Chevelle, one of the most popular was the 350 cubic inch unit found in this convertible. Not totally stock anymore, it drives the way a Chevy small block should. Upgrades like an Edelbrock intake and carburetor, electronic ignition system, and a set of long-tube headers feeding a Flowmaster dual exhaust system offer a bit more horsepower, improve drivability, and give it a great sound. The engine bay is well-dressed with Chevy Orange paint, a bit of chrome, and bright red plug wires for contrast. A TH350 3-speed automatic spins a tough 12-bolt rear end, so feel free to exercise your right foot whenever the urge hits you. And just to bring this one into the 21st century, there are coil-over shocks at all four corners and a set of gorgeous 17-inch Torque Thrust wheels protected by staggered 225/45/17 front and 245/45/18 rear performance radials.

A gorgeous convertible with plenty of horsepower, what better way to enjoy a sunny day? Call today!