Full details & bid : hemmings.com
The 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 is a legendary muscle car, representing the pinnacle of Chevrolet’s performance offerings during that era. Its aggressive styling, potent big-block engine options, and the coveted Super Sport package made it an instant classic. This particular example, a true SS 396 built on April 1st, 1970, at the Arlington, Texas plant, is an original California car that has been meticulously restored and thoughtfully upgraded for enhanced performance and driving enjoyment. Boasting its original matching numbers 396 L34 engine, a Tremec five-speed manual transmission, Baer disc brakes, and Hotchkis suspension, this Chevelle SS offers a thrilling blend of vintage muscle and modern drivability.
Original California Muscle, Restored to Shine: This 1970 Chevelle SS 396 was originally sold new by S&K Chevrolet in Vallejo, California, and retains its original owner’s manual and NCRS documentation, highlighting its provenance. The body, retaining its original sheet metal (with the exception of replaced quarter panels), was stripped bare and refinished in its correct Code 28 Fathom Blue paint, with single-stage SS stripes laid on top, just as the factory intended. The restoration, performed by the owner and fellow body industry professionals, is of high quality. While most exterior trim is original GM, the rechromed rear bumper shows some minor rust developing.
Matching Numbers Big Block Powerhouse: Under the cowl induction hood resides the original, matching numbers 396 cubic inch L34 V8 engine. From the factory, this Turbo-Jet big block was rated at 350 horsepower. However, this engine has been rebuilt and balanced to factory specifications, bored .030 over, and fitted with a Comp Cams Nostalgia Plus LS6 hydraulic camshaft and forged TRW pistons, suggesting enhanced performance and a nice idle. The original carburetor has been rebuilt and tuned by CRK Performance. All bolt-on components are either rebuilt originals or date-matched to the car.
Upgraded Drivetrain for Modern Performance: This Chevelle SS has been thoughtfully upgraded to deliver a more engaging driving experience. The original four-speed manual transmission has been replaced with a Tremec TKX five-speed manual transmission featuring a .68 overdrive, offering improved cruising and fuel efficiency. A McLeod HD clutch ensures reliable power transfer. The rear end is a rebuilt 12-bolt Positraction unit with a 3.73 gear ratio and new components, including Superior Axles, providing excellent traction.
Enhanced Handling and Braking: To match its upgraded powertrain, this Chevelle SS features a comprehensive suspension overhaul using Hotchkis and UMI components, including sway bars, resulting in improved handling and road feel. Braking performance is significantly enhanced by a Baer four-wheel 11-inch disc brake system with a functional parking brake. New OE-style brake lines and braided caliper hoses ensure reliable braking. The original brake booster has been rebuilt and plated. The steering has also been upgraded with a Grand Cherokee steering box, offering a more modern and responsive feel. The car rides on 17×8 alloy wheels in the original “SS” style, fitted with Nitto tires. A modern alignment has been performed.
Comfort and Modern Audio: The interior retains its original charm with the dash panel repainted and detailed, a perfect original GM dash pad, and original seats reupholstered with new foam and Legendary Rallye vinyl. The original door panels, dash, and console are clean originals, and all original gauges and controls are reported to work well. The interior has been fully insulated with soundproofing added. While retaining the original 1970 AM/FM 8-track stereo for its classic look, it has been converted to Bluetooth digital, and the 8-track player was serviced. Original-size upgraded speakers and a hidden Pioneer mini sub have been added for enhanced sound quality. A Cold Case HD aluminum radiator and a factory HD 772 clutch fan ensure optimal cooling.
Loaded with Factory Options: This Chevelle SS 396 was well-equipped from the factory with 21 options, including all tinted glass (AO1), power windows (A31), power driver bucket seat (A46), front bucket seats (A51), electric trunk opener (A90), colored floor mats (B37), console (D55), Positraction (G80), the L34 396-350HP engine (L34), a four-speed standard transmission (M20 – originally, now a 5-speed), evaporative emissions controls (NA9), cushion grip steering wheel (NK1), tilt steering (N33), power steering (N40), AM/FM stereo with tape player (UM2 – upgraded), instrumentation package (U14), HD radiator (VO1), front bumper guards (V31), auxiliary light group (ZJ9), special ducted hood (ZL2), and the Super Sport option (Z25).
Original Parts Available: The seller, the builder and owner of the car for over 19 years, is offering all of the original suspension and drivetrain parts that were upgraded at an additional cost, including the complete original “CCW” 3.31 12-bolt posi, rear control arms and sway bar, all four springs, front upper and lower control arms, front spindles and disc brakes, the original steering box, the original 1970 Muncie M20 transmission with all linkage, the original dated “BO” recored Harrison 3-core radiator, four original “AO” coded SS wheels, the original “999” distributor, and more.
Summary:
- Original California 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396.
- Matching numbers 396 CI L34 V8 engine (rebuilt with upgrades).
- Upgraded to a Tremec TKX five-speed manual transmission.
- 12-bolt Positraction rear end with 3.73 gears and Superior Axles.
- Baer four-wheel disc brakes and Hotchkis/UMI suspension.
- Refinished in original Fathom Blue with SS stripes.
- Original interior with upgraded audio and soundproofing.
- Loaded with 21 factory options.
- Original drivetrain and suspension parts available separately.
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle.
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