Vehicle Description
Sometimes cars are so sweet, it's hard to know where to begin
describing them. This 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 features a nice
restoration, a big block under the hood, and a list of upgrades and
options that make it just the way you'd want it if you'd built it
yourself.
According to the cowl tag and VIN, this is a real code 138 SS396
Sport Coupe, and that same cowl tag also gives away the fact that
this one was originally Lemonwood Yellow. That's good, because the
two stage urethane now on the car makes the soft pastel yellow look
fantastic. The bodywork is nicely done, with nary a ripple or wave
to be found, even on those big quarter panels which are notoriously
difficult to get this straight. Note the subtle crease that runs
from nose to tail; if the body isn't straight, that's where it will
show up first, and on this car, it's razor-sharp. Looking at the
reflections in our photo studio, you can see that someone spent a
lot of time getting this car straight, and that same level of
detail is found throughout, so the car makes a very good first
impression that stands up to closer inspections. If you want to
take it up a notch, you could have a good detailer do a simple cut
and buff, but even as it sits it has a great look. You'll also note
correct 'Super Sport' badges used on the quarters, a proper
blacked-out SS tail panel, and a super clean SS396 grille up front.
They didn't overlook anything on this one.
The interior is spot-on correct, sporting a set of code 761 black
vinyl buckets and a code G center console. As nicely finished as
the bodywork, the interior has quite a few new components that make
it look crisp and upscale. The seats have handsome seat covers with
bright trim and cool metal inserts on the seatbacks, while the door
panels show crisp detailing that was a hallmark of GM in the '60s.
The center console sports a handsome clock angled towards the
driver, as well as a proper chrome shifter that combines good looks
with user-friendliness. Gauges are simple and the controls are
basic, but the important things about cars like this weren't the
frills, but the hardware underneath, and this one delivers. You'll
note it also carries an upgraded AM/FM/CD stereo. In back, the
trunk is finished with proper spatter paint, a correct mat, and
carries a full-sized spare tire.
The engine is a correct but not numbers-matching L34-spec 396 cubic
inch big block dressed for battle in correct Chevy Orange paint.
Against that satin black engine bay, the motor simply pops, thanks
to a set of chrome big block valve covers and a correct
open-element air cleaner with Turbo Jet decals on top. There's a
moderate cam inside, an Edelbrock 4-barrel carburetor and matching
intake manifold, as well as an HIE distributor to light it up, but
it still doesn't stray too far from stock. Long-tube headers feed a
2.5-inch dual exhaust system with Flowmaster mufflers that dump
just below the rear bumper, as original. Disc brakes up front
provide reliable stopping power, and the TH350 3-speed automatic
transmission and 12-bolt rear end are up to the task of having fun
on the street. Polished Torque Thrust wheels are a refreshing
change from the usual Rallys and carry big 245/45/17 front and
255/40/17 rear performance radials.
Fast, fun, and handsome, this pretty yellow SS will make a fabulous
cruiser that will knock the crowds dead at the next local
cruise-in, and you can drive it with confidence knowing that
someone already sweated all the details. Call today!