What makes a Chevy an SS?
The Chevrolet SS, or Super Sport, is a high-performance variant of select Chevrolet models that offers enhanced power, styling, and handling. The SS badge has a long and storied history with Chevrolet, dating back to the 1960s, and continues to be a sought-after option for driving enthusiasts today.
The Origins of the Chevrolet SS
The Chevrolet SS first appeared in 1961 as an optional performance package for the Impala. This package included a more powerful V8 engine, upgraded suspension, and distinctive styling cues like a unique grille and badging. Over the years, the SS package was offered on various Chevrolet models, including the Chevelle, Camaro, and Monte Carlo, cementing its reputation as a symbol of Chevrolet's performance heritage.
What Makes the Chevrolet SS Special?
The Chevrolet SS is distinguished by several key features that set it apart from standard Chevrolet models:
- Powerful Engines: SS models typically come equipped with larger, more powerful engines, often V8s, that deliver increased horsepower and torque for a more exhilarating driving experience.
- Upgraded Suspension: The suspension on SS models is tuned for improved handling and responsiveness, with features like stiffer springs, shocks, and stabilizer bars.
- Distinctive Styling: SS models often feature unique exterior styling cues, such as a more aggressive front grille, larger wheels and tires, and distinctive badging, to set them apart from their standard counterparts.
- Performance-Oriented Interiors: The interiors of SS models may include features like sport seats, performance-oriented gauges, and unique trim elements to enhance the driving experience.
These performance-focused enhancements make the Chevrolet SS a more engaging and exhilarating driving experience for enthusiasts who crave the thrill of high-performance motoring.
The Modern Chevrolet SS
The Chevrolet SS nameplate was revived in 2013 with the introduction of a new, high-performance sedan based on the Australian-built Holden Commodore. This modern Chevrolet SS featured a powerful V8 engine, rear-wheel drive, and a host of performance upgrades that made it a worthy successor to the iconic SS models of the past. Unfortunately, the Chevrolet SS was discontinued after the 2017 model year, but its legacy as a symbol of Chevrolet's performance heritage lives on.
How do you tell if a car is an SS?
Look for Super Sport Badges and Trim:
Genuine SS models feature specific badges on the grille, fenders, and rear of the car.
Is the Chevy SS fast?
"In a straight line, the Chevy SS hits 60 mph in 4.7 seconds - faster than many sports cars." "In the SS, the transition from part throttle to full-on is sweetly smooth, without (sic) no angry reaction from the rear end. This car tolerates bravado or silliness without vengeance.
What does SS mean on a car?
Super Sport
So if you're wondering what SS means on a car, it stands for Super Sport. The first Super Sport, or SS, trim was available on the 1961 Chevy Impala, which featured a more powerful engine and some cosmetic upgrades.
What is the rarest Chevy?
1. 1969 Nova Yenko SC 427 - 38 Units. Rare as hen's teeth – the 1969 Nova Yenko SC 427 tops of our list of the rarest Chevrolet muscle cars. Yenko wanted to order the 427 engine in the compact Nova's – but Chevrolet wouldn't allow it for safety reasons.
What makes a Chevy SS a SS?
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.
Why are Chevy SS so rare?
This car is rare, though, unlike the VehiCROSS, it's not because it was built in a manner that would naturally limit production numbers. Instead, just 12,924 examples of the Chevrolet SS exist and of those, only 2,645 were equipped with a manual transmission. The Chevy SS is sort of like a case study.
What does LT stand for in Chevy?
Luxury Touring
So, what is the Chevy LT package? “ LT” stands for “Luxury Touring”. That means when you opt for the Silverado 1500 LT for your Swampscott commute instead of the base model Silverado 1500 WT, for example, more features either come standard or are made available. This is also a difference between the LT and LTZ trims.
What does LS stand for on a Malibu?
Luxury Sport
In the beginning, LS stood for “Luxury Sport,” but now it's often the name of the base Chevy trim level, which also means it's the most affordable. LT stands for “Luxury Touring,” and it's usually the next step up from the base level.
How do I know if my car is S or SE?
A: Each trim level represents a different package of features. For instance, “LE” might stand for “Luxury Edition” and focus on comfort, while “S” could denote “Sport” and emphasize performance. The SE trim typically indicates an upgrade in luxury and/or sporty features.
Is the Chevy SS a Malibu?
The Malibu SS was replaced in 1966 by a new Chevelle SS-396 series that included a big-block 396 cu in (6.5 L) V8 engine (Canadian market did not receive the SS396 but marketed the former Malibu SS nameplate until January 1967 when it was phased out), heavy duty suspension and other performance equipment.
