1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396

Description

It's amazing what just a wheel swap can do for the look of a car, but it's true: aside from the gorgeous 17-inch wheels, this is a pretty stock (and pretty straight!) 1969 Chevelle SS396. Dressed in desirable triple black, this car shows you just how good the big block A-bodies were right out of the box.

If you want a black Chevelle, there aren't many that can compete with this one. Nicely prepped bodywork is up to the scrutiny that black paint invites, with good gaps, straight panel alignment, and enough block sanding to ensure that the glossy surface doesn't show the usual flaws. Sight down the flanks and you'll see clear reflections that will make this car get more than its fair share of second glances. Sure, it's been driven so there are some signs of use, but there's little to fault in the work itself, and it's even more impressive once you realize that there are no stripes to distract you from the main event. A black vinyl roof is a subtle touch, and it has been properly installed and uses the correct long-grain material for a factory look, and no, before you call, there are no signs of previous issues underneath. All the factory chrome and stainless was freshened, too, so the brightwork really pops against the inky black paint, and while there's no way to prove a real SS in 1969, this one has all the right badges and markings.

Chevelle interiors are some of the best of the period, an inviting combination of sport and luxury that few other cars could match. Wearing reproduction seat covers, proper SS door panels, and neatly fitted black carpets, the recently restored interior is every bit as nice as the bodywork. The Hurst shifter with cue ball knob serves as a kind of warning that this car is serious about its performance, and with a rare factory tach in the dash, it was obviously built for a purpose. Those gauges are in original condition, which is pretty darned good for 45 years, and there's a newer AM/FM/cassette radio in the dash to replace the original AM unit. The trunk got a makeover, too, carrying a new mat made of the correct material and a full-sized wheel and tire assembly.

With 396 cubic inches under the hood and a 4-speed transmission, it doesn't take much imagination to know this is a fun car to drive. Rebuilt to largely stock specs, it starts easily and runs beautifully, idling smoothly and pulling with the urgency of a freight train. With fresh Chevy Orange paint, chrome valve covers, and an open-element air cleaner, it looks pretty authentic, too. Factory exhaust manifolds help control noise and heat up front, while Flowmasters add a nice mellow tone out back. The 4-speed Muncie gearbox invites you to rip through the gears and with a 12-bolt rear end, you don't have to worry about being gentle on the throttle. And like I said, the only major upgrade are those trick Boss wheels, which have a Torque Thrust look but a 21st century set of 225/55/17 performance rubber wrapped around them.

For Chevelle fans there aren't many cars that are more appealing than a black big block SS. If you're one of those fans, your next car has arrived. Call today!