"Chevrolet had taunted enthusiasts with word that the majestic
454ci LS6 would be back for '71. Compression would be a modest
9.0:1, but output a still formidable 425hp. It was never released
for public sale, however. Instead, the hydraulic lifter LS5
returned as a $279 option on top of the basic SS package.
Compression fell to 8.5:1, from 10.25:1, but output actually
increased by five horsepower, to 365."
Musclecars.howstuffworks.com
For consignment, a 1971 Chevrolet Malibu Chevelle SS454 showing
54,325 miles, but the true miles are unknown. We've had our share
of SS tributes here at the mall and here's the real deal with a
matching numbers engine!
Exterior
Two stage Antique Green features the epic white SS stripes that
ride the hood, cling to the cowl bulge, then return to dress the
decklid. Let's stay in the back where the chrome bumper serves to
frame the tail lamps, once considered typical and pedestrian but
have since taken on a classically muscular appeal, and the exhaust
tips that protrude just underneath don't hurt that profile one bit.
Single headlights make their appearance in '71 and hood pins are a
clue that this is not your grandmother's Chevelle. SS appears on
all four corners, but it's those three numbers on the fender that
are most coveted; 454. The 14-inch Chevrolet SS wheels work well in
dark gray with the letters out tire profiles and wheel opening trim
enhances the package. Flaws are few on this legend and include some
minor inclusions, chips, a hairline crack at the A-pillar,
scratches, surface rust on the panel undersides, edgewear, and
minor scuffs. Overall, it's a very nice presentation.
Interior
White vinyl door panels adorn the inside and present in excellent
condition and dramatic contrast. Up front, we have a split bench,
also in white, and sharing the pattern, color and material with the
rear bench, all in very good shape. How does the dash of the
highest performance Chevelle differ from the base model in 1971?
You get round gauges instead of a sweep speedometer, and the
addition of a tachometer means business. Other gauges, knobs and
switches, and an AM/FM radio with 8-track are based in a textured
plastic face plate in excellent condition with an introduced double
gauge pod under the dash. This is a column shift car, so the floor
is open and covered by black looped carpet and the dark headliner
up above also shows well. The trunk is barren and clean and houses
a spare.
Drivetrain
One clean machine, the numbers matching 454ci LS5 V8 under the hood
has been rebuilt and comes with the paperwork to prove it. It's
rated at 365 horsepower and fueled via a 4-barrel carburetor,
naturally. Behind it is a TH400 3-speed automatic, also with
rebuild documentation, and routes power to the 12 bolt rear axle
with 3.31 gears with Positraction.
Undercarriage
Clean as could be underneath with only the slightest surface rust
or oxidation present. Dual exhaust travels through FlowMaster
mufflers on their way to a chrome tipped exit. Brakes are here as
power disc in front and power drum in back, and suspension includes
coil springs all around with a 4 link in back.
Drive-Ability
We pilot this legendary muscle car on to the test loop where dozens
of Chevelles have treaded before, but very few true SS454. The king
of the hill does not disappoint in providing powerful grunt,
straight tracking, and functional brakes. All functions operate as
they should with the exception of the reverse lights. While Classic
Auto Mall represents that these functions were working at the time
of our test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions will be
working at the time of your purchase.
Like Frank sang, you're looking to be king of the hill, top of the
list, king of the heap, make your way to Morgantown and make a
brand new start with your 1971 Chevelle SS454. Should we start
spreading the news? You'll have to make the call first.
136371R102814
1-Chevrolet
36-Malibu V8
37-2 Door Hardtop Sport Coupe
1-1971
R-Arlington, TX Assy Plant
102814-Sequential Unit Number
TRIM TAG
ST 71 13637-1971 Malibu 2 Door Hardtop Sport Coupe
BDY R02116-Arlington Body #
TR 731-Dark Antique Green Elk Coated Fabric Bench
PNT 49 49-Antique Green
08C-3rd Week August
Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and
collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate
controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8
acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic
and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown,
Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the
I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit
www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us
anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.
There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee
is not included in the advertised price. All prices are before
state, city and county tax, tag, title and license fees. Out of
state buyers are responsible for all state, county, city taxes and
fees, as well as title/registration fees in the state that the
vehicle will be registered. Classic Auto Mall is not responsible
for errors and omissions. Please verify listings with dealer.
Vehicles may require VIN verification and/or safety and emissions
inspections to transfer ownership and register the vehicle in the
declared state of residence. Please check with your local DMV
office to ensure compliance with your states titling and
registration process.
With so many great cars, you know we have a lot to talk about, and
we do that each week on the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with host
Stewart Howden. Stewart discusses new inventory as well as trends
in consignments and car prices, while interviewing celebrities and
automotive professionals about amazing cars and their history. Tune
in each week to the Classic Auto Mall Podcast wherever you enjoy
listening. You can also watch on YouTube!
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