Vehicle Description
When the Chevy SSR pickup hit the streets, there was just no doubt
that it would be a hot future collectable. Built in limited
numbers, and by the time this 2006 example was built, it had a
proper 6.0 liter V8 and a 6-speed manual transmission, finally
delivering on the promises made by its outrageous look. Oh, and
just in case that's not enough, someone bolted on a big honkin'
supercharger to turn this SSR into a Corvette-stomping pickup
truck.
Black and silver is one of the SSR's more unusual colors, with only
257 being built in two-tone, but there's no mistaking that shape.
It was strongly influenced by the Advance Design pickups of the
late-40s, and the retro look is one of the SSR's best features. The
grille, the rounded fenders, and the deep-draw rear fenders that
suggest a stepside box are all design cues that take us back in
time. But at the same time, the advanced materials that form the
body of this truck are what made it practical to build, and with
just 54,124 original miles, it remains in very good overall
condition. The finish is extremely nice, as if GM knew these were
special vehicles and told their painters to take their time and get
it right. It's never been hit, of course, so everything fits
together the way they set it at the factory, and if you're looking
for a 2-seat roadster, there are none as practical as this one,
which includes a pickup bed. This one also features an exterior
chrome package and teak planks in the cargo area that tie it
directly to its inspirational heritage.
The interior is pure 21st century cool. Forget bench seats and
rubber floor mats, this one black leather buckets that would look
at home in a Corvette plus every luxury and convenience feature you
can imagine. Ice cold A/C, a powerful stereo, and power everything
(including the folding hardtop) are at your fingertips. The 6-speed
manual was a late addition to the spec sheet, but it completely
transforms the truck into a muscle car that can run with some
pretty serious hardware, yet remains light and easy to drive around
town. The leather seating surfaces show only the most minor signs
of having been used, and the black carpets have not seen rain or
dirt thanks to a set of matching SSR-embroidered floor mats. And
all you have to do is hit the button and the top disappears behind
the cab, a trick that always amazes bystanders.
The other big news is the 6.0 liter Vortec V8 enhanced by a
Magnussen supercharger. Early SSRs made due with a 5.3 liter engine
that was hard-pressed to deliver the thrills that the swoopy
bodywork suggested, but this truck's blown 6.0 completely cures
that malady. Sitting on top of the engine, it looks almost OEM and
thanks to a custom tune, it drives like a stocker with no bad
habits. It also offers great V8 sounds thanks to a true dual
exhaust system, and a heavy-duty clutch and pressure plate mean
that it plants the power effectively. Powerful disc brakes, a
grippy but compliant suspension, and quick steering help it bridge
the gap between muscle car and pickup truck. Staggered factory
wheels wear optional chrome plating and 255/45/19 front and
295/40/20 rear Goodyear Eagle tires.
Still as stunning today as it was ten years ago when it hit the
market, the SSR is quite possibly the first and only no-compromises
muscle car, and with a supercharger, it's a beast of an entirely
different color. Call today!
