How to tell if a Chevelle is a SS?
The Chevrolet Chevelle is a classic American muscle car that was produced from 1964 to 1977. The Chevelle SS (Super Sport) was a high-performance variant that featured a more powerful engine, distinctive styling, and enhanced handling. If you're interested in identifying whether a Chevelle is an authentic SS model, there are several key features to look for.
Exterior Identification
One of the most obvious ways to tell if a Chevelle is an SS is by examining its exterior features:
- Badging: The Chevelle SS will have "SS" badging on the front grille, rear deck lid, and sometimes on the front fenders.
- Hood: The Chevelle SS often features a distinctive hood with a functional hood scoop or hood bulge, which was designed to provide additional airflow to the engine.li>
- Wheels: The Chevelle SS typically came equipped with larger, performance-oriented wheels and tires compared to the standard Chevelle models.
- Trim: The Chevelle SS may have unique trim pieces, such as chrome accents or specific body moldings, that differentiate it from the standard Chevelle.li>
It's important to note that some Chevelle models may have been modified or have aftermarket parts installed, so it's essential to carefully inspect the vehicle to ensure the exterior features are authentic.
Interior Identification
In addition to the exterior cues, the interior of the Chevelle SS can also provide clues to its identity:
- Gauges: The Chevelle SS often featured a more comprehensive gauge cluster, including a tachometer, which was not standard on the base Chevelle models.
- Upholstery: The Chevelle SS may have unique upholstery, such as bucket seats or a center console, that was not found on the standard Chevelle.li>
- Badging: Similar to the exterior, the Chevelle SS may have "SS" badging or other performance-oriented branding on the interior, such as on the steering wheel or dashboard.
Again, it's important to be cautious, as some Chevelle models may have been modified with aftermarket parts or accessories that could mimic the appearance of an authentic SS.
Engine and Drivetrain Identification
The most definitive way to identify an authentic Chevelle SS is by examining the engine and drivetrain:
- Engine: The Chevelle SS was typically equipped with a more powerful engine, such as a V8, compared to the standard Chevelle models. The engine size and horsepower can be used to confirm the SS designation.
- Transmission: The Chevelle SS often came with a high-performance manual or automatic transmission, which was not standard on the base Chevelle models.li>
- Rear Axle: The Chevelle SS may have a more robust rear axle and differential to handle the increased power and performance.li>
If the engine, transmission, and rear axle specifications match the known Chevelle SS configurations, it's a strong indication that the vehicle is an authentic SS model.
Identifying an authentic Chevelle SS requires a careful inspection of the vehicle's exterior, interior, and mechanical components. By looking for the distinctive features and comparing them to the known specifications of the Chevelle SS, you can determine if the vehicle is a true high-performance muscle car.
What is the most sought after Chevelle SS?
1970 Chevelle SS 454 LS6 Convertible
What Is the Rarest Chevelle? One of the rarest and most sought-after Chevelles is the 1970 Chevelle SS 454 LS6 Convertible. In 1970, Chevrolet produced only 20 Chevelle SS 454 LS6 Convertibles.
What does SS stand for in Chevelle?
Super Sport
Super Sport, or SS, is the signature performance option package offered by the Chevrolet division of General Motors on a limited number of its vehicles. All SS models come with distinctive "SS" markings on their exterior. The SS package was first made available for the 1961 Impala.
How to identify 1967 Chevelle SS 396?
Vehicle Identification Number —Chevelle SS396 models built between 1966 and 1968 can be authenticated by the first five digits of the VIN, which should read "13817. " Cowl Build Tag —Chevelles built between 1966 and 1968 can be identified as the "SS396" body style by codes placed on the cowl build tag.
What is the spec of the Chevelle SS?
The standard Chevelle SS engine was a two-barrel 350-cubic-inch V8 rated at 245 gross (165 net) horsepower. Optional was a four-barrel carbureted version of the 350 V8 rated at 275 gross (200 net with dual exhaust and 175 net with single exhaust) horsepower.
