The Chevelle was great, but the SS 396 turned it into a head-turning machine, always prepared to transform a simple ride to the supermarket into a thrilling experience.
The sporty upgrades, which included reinforced frames, new suspension, and a hood scoop whose only role was to look good, worked like a charm, with the Chevelle SS rapidly becoming an intriguing model in the Chevelle lineup.
However, the SS 396 waved goodbye to the Chevelle in 1966 when it gained series status. Chevrolet believed the SS 396 deserved to no longer be treated as an option package, so it promoted the Super Sport to a standalone series. It didn’t take long before the American carmaker changed its mind, so in 1969, the company decided to undo the decision.
The 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 that landed on eBay courtesy of seller octanevalley is one of the first models that rebecame a part of the Chevelle lineup in 1969. It spent its entire life with just two owners, but you can tell the car has been struggling with a lot lately.
I won’t comment too much on what the eyes can see, but the photos shared on eBay suggest the SS 396 has been sitting for God knows how long in a junkyard. As a junkyard survivor, the Chevelle SS 396 comes with heavy rust problems, so I expect horrible news not only on the body but also on the floors and in the trunk. The undercarriage is most likely wreaked, but you still need to inspect everything thoroughly.
The owner admits the vehicle will need extensive work, and it’s clear this SS 396 isn’t aimed at the faint of heart. It’s a rough project requiring a ton of work in all key departments, including the body and the interior.
However, the buyer will get good news from the engine under the hood. The Chevelle SS 396 still has the all-original V8 engine, though its condition can’t be good. The owner doesn’t share specifics, but the photos indicate the V8 has been struggling with a lot lately, so don’t be surprised if it’s locked up. You must inspect the car in person anyway, so bring a good mechanic, and you’ll find out if the V8 deserves a second chance in seconds.
Despite the heavy rust and the obvious problems, the SS 396 doesn’t sell cheaply. It’s not a surprise, as the Chevelle Super Sport is typically a highly desirable model, especially when the restoration work is top-notch. The owner expects to get $9,500 for the car, but they also enabled the Make Offer button. It means you can contact them if you have another deal in mind.
The Chevelle SS 396 is currently parked in Elizabeth, New Jersey, but it’s unclear if it rolls freely to take it on a trailer without much effort.