Stepping back into 1971, the Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu SS 454 Sport Coupe stands as a monument to American muscle. This particular example, finished in striking Classic Copper with black stripes, carries a unique history. It began its life far from the mainland, initially delivered to the Waipahu Auto Company in Oahu, Hawaii. It arrived well-equipped, ordered new with the potent LS5 V8, a Muncie M22 four-speed manual transmission, and the crucial PosiTraction rear end. After a recent, comprehensive refurbishment, this 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 now shines like new.
The Classic Copper Exterior and SS Details
The refurbishment brought this machine back to its factory glory, sporting a beautiful Classic Copper finish. The seller confirms the car still retains its original factory sheet metal, a significant detail for any collector. Black stripes adorn the functional cowl-induction hood and the decklid, providing the essential Super Sport contrast. Furthermore, the exterior features a bold black grille, a driver-side mirror, and sleek hideaway windshield wipers. The finishing touch is provided by the bright chrome bumpers, which complete the classic muscle car profile.
SS Performance Suspension and Braking Upgrade
This 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 rides on an F41 performance suspension, a necessary upgrade for handling the power beneath the hood. The car sits on 15-inch SS wheels, fitted with period-correct BFGoodrich Radial T/A white-letter tires. As part of the recent overhaul, the suspension, steering, and braking systems were completely refreshed. For added safety and stopping power, this coupe features power front disc brakes, an important feature for a car of this vintage.
Interior Appointments and Sandalwood Trim
The cabin offers a fantastic vintage feel, refurbished with a replacement headliner, dash pad, and door panels. The seats were reupholstered in a handsome Sandalwood vinyl, matching the original trim code. Up front, you find the classic front bucket seats separated by a functional center console. Within easy reach is the famous Muncie shifter, ready to snap through the gears. The interior also includes a Delco AM/FM radio and a necessary cabin heater for cooler days.
Instrumentation for the Driver
The driver interacts with a tilting steering wheel featuring the iconic SS logo at its center. The dash houses a full array of essential gauges for the performance-minded pilot. These include a 120-mph speedometer, a bold 7k-rpm tachometer, and an analog clock. Additional readouts display information for amperage, fuel level, and coolant temperature. The odometer indicates only 127 miles since the refurbishment, though the total chassis mileage remains unknown.
Mighty LS5 V8 Engine and Drivetrain Specs
Powering this legendary machine is the formidable Turbo-Jet 454ci LS5 V8 engine. From the factory, this engine was rated to produce 365 horsepower and a massive 465 lb-ft of torque. The engine was completely rebuilt during the refurbishment, ensuring peak performance. This formidable engine sends power through the rebuilt Muncie M22 four-speed manual transmission. Finally, the power is delivered to the ground via a 3.31 PosiTraction rear axle, ensuring excellent grip under hard acceleration. Furthermore, the chassis components were all powder-coated to ensure long-term durability.
A Detailed Summary of the SS 454 Coupe
This 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 Sport Coupe is a highly desirable example, combining a significant LS5 engine with the rare Muncie manual transmission. Originating in Hawaii and restored to a high standard in Classic Copper, it is a quintessential piece of muscle car lore. The refurbishment included an overhaul of the drivetrain, suspension, and interior, resulting in a show-ready vehicle. It represents a fantastic opportunity to own an impeccably presented 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 LS5, complete with performance hardware.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
