1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Is a Highly Original Gem With One Little Secret

The SS 454 LS6 is arguably the most powerful iteration of the nameplate. Using a 454-cubic-inch (7.4-liter) V8 rated at 450 horsepower, it was also the most potent muscle car during its time in showrooms. The SS 454 LS6 was sold in 1970 only. And this makes the said model year the best Chevelle year in terms of performance.

But the LS6 wasn't the only Chevelle pushing out an impressive amount of oomph. The SS 396 was nothing to sneeze at, either. The 402-cubic-inch (6.6-liter) mill offered with this badge delivered up to 375 horsepower, as much as the wild Ford Mustang Boss 429.

Granted, the LS6 is a much rarer gem, but the SS 396 is also hard to find in the condition seen here. Yup, this Chevy is a finely restored example that looks as perfect as when it left the factory more than 50 years ago. Moreover, this rig has a convertible top, which makes it among the scarcest Chevelles built that year.

This SS 396 has the L34 engine, which found its way into 51,544 Chevelles in 1970. The actual number of convertibles made that year is unknown, but the general consensus among enthusiasts is that a little more than 2% of the total production got the retractable top. Therefore, this rig is one of about 1,100 units made.

Found and documented by 1970 Chevelle expert Patrick Glenn Nichols, this drop-top has a few cool feats to brag about. For starters, it's a highly optioned example that retains the numbers-matching engine and the original build sheet. It's also the earliest known 1970 convertible built at the Baltimore, Maryland plant.

But it also hides a tiny secret. Even though it was restored to pristine condition, it's no longer dressed in the original Fathom Blue color. The owner opted to have it redone in Tuxedo Black. It's still a great contrast with the white stripes, top, and bucket seat interior.

Additionally, the original automatic gearbox was replaced with a four-speed transmission. But that's reversible since the original TH400 gearbox is still with the car. All told, this Chevelle is only a repaint and a transmission swap away from becoming an original-spec restoration.

The convertible is currently for sale, so I guess it's up to the next owner to decide. Would you keep it as is or return it to its original specifications? Check out the Chevelle in the video below, and let me know in the comments section.