If you’re a Chevelle fan, I know what you think when hearing about the 1965 model year. The big news this year was the introduction of the Z16 package, which included a 396 engine with 375 horsepower.
It was a fantastic engine available alongside other welcome upgrades, including heavy-duty suspension and front and rear anti-roll bars. However, the number of Chevrolet Chevelles rolling off the assembly lines with the Z16 package was very limited. Only 201 units left the factory, so finding one today is rare and expensive.
The Chevelle SS in these photos hides a big secret under the desirable Super Sport treatment.
The car was built to serve as a Chevelle SS tribute, and the VIN confirms it was born as a Malibu (theoretically, all Chevelles, except the model years between 1966 and 1966 when the SS gained series status, were born as Malibus).
The car has already received a bunch of upgrades and repairs, so it’s now in almost perfect shape. It’s hard to find something to hate on this SS tribute, albeit you’re recommended to check out the car live or order a third-party inspection.
The Chevelle is now fitted with a 283 engine that has already been rebuilt, so it starts, runs, and drives perfectly. It’s paired with a two-speed automatic transmission and comes alongside aftermarket upgrades, including a new radio. The good news is that the factory radio is still available, so if you want to bring the car back to its original condition, you should be able to do this with a little effort.
The Chevelle rides on new tires borrowed from a later sibling and also flexes a dual exhaust system, power steering, and new gauges. The VIN code confirms the car was born as an eight-cylinder Malibu, so whoever turned it into a Chevelle SS was a big fan of the Super Sport magic.
Now, let’s talk money.
People interested in all-original Chevelles will probably walk away at this point, and I can’t blame them. I’m not a big fan of tributes either, but I admit this Chevelle looks fantastic. If you don’t mind the secret under the Super Sport tags, you must compete against at least 20 people.
The auction is already underway, but eBay seller carsgone169 has also configured a reserve. It’s still in place today, and despite the auction reaching $9,150, the Chevelle will stay where it is until someone hits the reserve. The vehicle is parked in West Wareham, Massachusetts, and thanks to its condition, it should be able to drive anywhere on its wheels.
The auction will end in eight days, so you still have enough time to arrange a third-party inspection if you believe the Chevelle has a place in your garage.