While the third-generation Chevelle debuted in 1973, Chevrolet launched a significant redesign two years earlier. The “new” Chevelle had a little something for everybody. The car boasted styling refinements, such as a new grille, new bumpers, and redesigned headlights, as well as substantial changes in the engine lineup.
The popular SS option was no longer the superstar that Chevrolet pioneered during the ’60s. Customers could order the SuperSport with any optional V8 in the lineup, so Chevrolet somehow turned it into an appearance upgrade rather than a performance-oriented package as a whole.
The only engine that was a forbidden fruit on the SS was the 307 V8, which Chevrolet offered as the base V8 on 1971 Chevelle. Otherwise, you could have any other V8 unit for the Chevelle SS, including the almighty LS5 454.
The Chevelle posted on eBay by seller klineta rolled off the assembly lines with the base 307 under the hood, but as you’ll probably figure out fast, this doesn’t matter much anymore. The car spent 33 years locked in a barn, and you can tell this is true by simply looking at the photos in the gallery.
The vehicle sports a very rough shape, with the rust taking a massive toll on the metal parts. The Chevelle is still complete, but I don’t expect the undersides to look good. The owner says the floors and the trunk are still solid, so if you believed this Chevelle isn’t worth a restoration, you might want to go see it in person before making a decision.
The V8 is already locked up, but I don’t think this is a deal-breaker. Considering the 307 was the base V8 on the 1971 Chevelle, going for a big-block unit is the right decision even without the SS tags.
As a barn-find, this 1971 Chevelle is an intriguing project for people in the restoration business, especially because the car is still complete. Overhauling the vehicle is a challenging job, given the rough metal shape and the wrecked engine. You’re not getting a clear look at the interior, but you shouldn’t expect the cabin to flex a solid shape after so many years in storage.
The no-reserve auction is already underway, and it has already caught the attention of netizens interested in a Chevelle. The bidding started a few hours ago but has already recorded seven offers, bringing the digital fight to $5,600. The owner did not configure a reserve, so the Chevelle will certainly have a new home when the auction ends.
If you want to see the vehicle in person, you can find it in Brazil, Indiana, considering the engine is stuck, it won’t move anytime soon. The buyer will have to get the car on a trailer.