2006 Chevrolet SSR

Description

The Chevrolet SSR was a fascinating experiment the likes of which we may never see again. It handles like a Camaro, capable of hauling real stuff like a pickup, and with a folding hardtop much like a 2-seat roadster, all powered by a big, honkin' V8 up front. What's not to love?

This 2006 Chevrolet SSR is one of those nicely preserved, low-mileage examples that has obviously led a very good life in the hands of a serious collector. With just 25,307 original miles, it's bone stock and ripe for stashing away for posterity, with its limited production practically guaranteeing future collectability. Finishing it in bright red never hurts, either, and aside from a touch-up on the right front fender, it's 100% original and in outstanding condition. These trucks were never purchased as daily drivers, so it shouldn't be a surprise that it's glossy, tight, and almost like new in every possible way, and it has lived all its life in Georgia, so rust is clearly a non-issue. And now that a decade has passed, it turns out that these trucks have aged pretty well, suggesting great designs never get tired. The flared fenders (which were highly experimental deep-draw composites at the time) still look aggressive and the styling cues that recall the Advance Design pickups of the '40s are still appealing, and you'll probably find it impossible to go anywhere in this SSR without drawing a crowd. THAT's staying power!

The black leather interior is anything but pickup truck basic, offering sculpted bucket seats, a color-matched center console, and every feature GM could dream up. More Corvette than pickup truck, the super stylish seats work with the glitzy door panels and retro-looking steering wheel to deliver a unique driver's environment. And, of course, it's all just as nice as the exterior, with virtually zero wear to the seating surfaces, excellent carpets, and not so much as a depression on the door panel where the driver's elbow might rest. There's even a bunch of chrome to dress things up in a retro style. Features include automatic climate control, power windows, locks, seats, and mirrors, cruise control, and a thundering stereo system that fills the little cockpit with sound at any speed. Touch a button and the trick folding hardtop disappears behind the seats, making this the coolest open-air truck since the Model A roadster pickup of the '30s. And while the bed is big enough to carry really big stuff, it's beautifully finished with carpets and wood, effectively making it the most spacious and stylish trunk in the world.

Chevy's LS-based 6.0 liter V8 was a late arrival in the SSR but the added power totally transforms the roadster pickup. Lots of torque at any speed means old-fashioned rear-wheel-drive antics are just a toe wiggle away and you already know how bulletproof these engines are in regular pickups. It's totally stock, right down to the color-coded engine cover that really cleans up the engine bay. There are plenty of mods out there, but for investment vehicles, stock is always best. It's linked to a slick-shifting 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission, so it's a fantastic highway vehicle, top up or top down. The suspension is rugged enough for truck duty but handles like a slightly tall muscle car, and the split exhaust system gives it a '60s soundtrack you're going to love. Giant chrome wheels with staggered 255/45/19 front and 295/40/20 rear Goodyear radials add an old-school rake that's totally cool.

You'll never see GM take a chance on a vehicle like this again, so grab this SSR while it's still affordable and go have some fun. Call today!