The 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle, once known as the Cheap Street Chevelle, has a storied past tied to Car Craft magazine and HOT ROD’s Power Tour. This iconic muscle car, purchased in the mid-90s for just $3,000, has since transformed into a legendary street machine and giveaway vehicle.
A Magazine Icon
Featured prominently in Car Craft, this Chevelle became a magazine project car in the ‘90s. Originally a 355-cu.in. small-block-powered machine, it quickly earned a following with its street-friendly mods, eventually running impressive times on the drag strip. As the years progressed, Chevrolet Performance donated a brand-new ZZ502 big-block, giving this Chevelle the raw power needed to compete at a higher level.
The Chevelle’s journey took many twists, including being stolen, recovered, and restored by Steve Strope’s Pure Vision shop, culminating in a stunning debut at the 2004 HOT ROD Power Tour where it was awarded as a sweepstakes prize.
Features & Performance
This famous Chevelle is powered by a GM Performance Parts ZZ502 crate engine, producing 502 horsepower. The engine bay was meticulously detailed, with a Holley Street Avenger carburetor, Hooker headers, and a Vintage Air Front Runner serpentine belt drive. A U.S. Radiator with dual electric fans ensures it stays cool, while the 700-R4 automatic transmission with overdrive provides smooth power delivery.
Other upgrades include:
- Auburn limited-slip differential with 3.73:1 gears in a 12-bolt rear axle.
- Cowl Induction-style hood and grille replaced after the theft incident.
- Millennium Yellow and flat-black paint applied by Steve Strope’s team, retaining the black vinyl top.
- Semi-flat-black body trim by Andrews Powder Coating and re-plated chrome by Faith Plating.
- Interior restoration using YearOne components, including a custom gauge panel by RedLine Gauge Works and a LeCarra steering wheel.
- SSBC four-wheel power disc brakes, featuring 12-inch front and 11-inch rear rotors for strong stopping power.
- Custom Bonspeed Delta V 18-inch wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich G-Force T/A KD tires.
- Suspension enhancements from Edelbrock and Eibach, giving it a low, aggressive stance.
Overview
This 1970 Chevelle has been preserved with its heritage and modern upgrades intact. It’s a former magazine superstar, a HOT ROD Power Tour giveaway car, and a piece of automotive history with a well-documented journey. After winning it, the current owner has kept it in prime condition for the last 20 years, participating in multiple Power Tours and showing its lasting impact on car culture.
With powerful performance and a custom look, this Chevelle is ready to hit the road or win awards at car shows. Whether you’re a muscle car enthusiast or a fan of automotive history, this Chevelle is a one-of-a-kind collector’s piece.
Documentation
The sale includes magazine articles from Car Craft and HOT ROD, along with a clean Colorado title. The Chevelle comes with a fascinating history and is offered in excellent condition, with only a small paint bubble below the rear window noted by the seller.
This 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle is a unique opportunity to own a piece of muscle car and magazine history.
Location: Lake Havasu City, Arizona
VIN: 136370L167571
Odometer: 76,043 miles
Engine: 502-cu.in. OHV V8
Transmission: Automatic
Exterior Color: Millennium Yellow and flat black
Interior: Black vinyl
Seller: Private
Source: hemmings.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
