The 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Sport Coupe remains a cornerstone of the American muscle car movement, marking the year Chevrolet introduced a sleeker, more sculpted body style. This specific example underwent a comprehensive refurbishment in 2016, transitioning from its original Sequoia Green to a bold red finish with black accents. By pairing a replacement 396ci V8 with a traditional four-speed manual, the car captures the raw, mechanical essence of the late sixties while integrating strategic modern upgrades. Now offered at no reserve, this Chevelle stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the SS396 badge and the timeless performance of the A-body platform.
Red Refinement and American Racing Daisy Style
The exterior of this 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Sport Coupe is finished in a vibrant red, a departure from its factory V2 Sequoia Green and black vinyl roof. During the 2016 build, the body was treated to black accents that highlight the twin-domed hood and blacked-out grille. It maintains its classic muscle stance on 15-inch American Racing Daisy alloy wheels, wrapped in staggered Hankook Kinergy ST tires for a period-correct pro-touring look. Chrome bumpers and hideaway windshield wipers provide the polished jewelry needed to balance the aggressive paint, ensuring the car commands attention at any stoplight or local show.
Black Vinyl Cockpit with Vintage Air Comfort
Inside the cabin, the 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Sport Coupe features a re-trimmed interior upholstered in classic black vinyl. The front bucket seats are divided by a factory-style center console, which houses the floor-mounted shifter for the four-speed manual. Modern conveniences have been integrated subtly, including a Vintage Air climate control system and a Custom Autosound stereo for an improved driving environment. A three-spoke Sparco steering wheel provides a modern tactile connection to the road, framing a 120-mph speedometer and a unique roller-style tachometer. While the air conditioning currently requires attention due to a leak, the interior remains a highly functional and nostalgic space.
Big Block 396 Punch and Four-Speed Engagement
Performance is anchored by a replacement 396ci V8 engine, which breathes through a four-barrel carburetor and a dual exhaust system. This iconic big block delivers approximately 325 hp/330 PS and 410 lb-ft/556 Nm of torque in a single, authoritative sentence, providing the effortless low-end grunt that defined the SS396 era. Power is sent to the pavement via a four-speed manual transmission and a heavy-duty 12-bolt rear end equipped with a Positraction limited-slip differential. The chassis has been modernized with power-assisted front disc brakes and rear coilover shocks with adjustable dampers, allowing the driver to fine-tune the ride quality to suit their personal preference.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 396ci V8 (Replacement) |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Manual |
| Rear End | 12-Bolt Positraction (Limited-Slip) |
| Brakes | Power Front Disc / Rear Drum |
| Wheels | 15-Inch American Racing Daisy |
| Features | Vintage Air / Adjustable Rear Dampers |
SS396 Pedigree and Restomod Desirability
In the current collector market, the 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Sport Coupe continues to be a high-demand asset, especially for enthusiasts who prioritize drivability over factory-original concourse standards. This example’s 13837 style code confirms its status as a genuine SS396, a critical factor for long-term value retention. Compared to a completely stock survivor, this refurbished restomod offers superior handling and cooling, making it a more practical choice for the modern road. As 1960s muscle cars continue to appreciate, a well-sorted big-block Chevelle with a four-speed and power disc brakes remains one of the safest and most enjoyable investments in the automotive world.
A Muscle Legend Ready for the Open Road
This 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Sport Coupe is a visceral reminder of why the Chevelle remains a cultural icon nearly sixty years after its debut. With only 2,400 miles driven since its 2016 refurbishment, it offers a fresh opportunity to experience big-block power with the peace of mind provided by a modern suspension overhaul. From the rumble of the dual exhaust to the classic feel of the Daisy alloys, every part of this car is designed to be used and enjoyed. Whether you are looking for a weekend cruiser or a centerpiece for a domestic muscle collection, this SS396 delivers the perfect blend of 1968 soul and contemporary mechanical confidence.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
