In the world of muscle cars, few stand taller than the Chevelle SS. In all its various iterations, it offers a combination of style, performance, and comfort that competitors aspired to duplicate but never quite managed to do it. In 1966, the Chevelle was redesigned and the engine bay was enlarged to permit the installation of the big block 396 cubic inch V8, which changed the performance car landscape forever. And just in case the factory offerings weren’t quite enough, there are cars like this brilliant red 1966 Chevelle SS, which brings some race-grade hardware to the street and delivers a serious dose of horsepower that should intimidate just about anything else on the street.

This is a real code 138 SS, so it’s wearing those ‘Super Sport’ badges honestly. It spent its entire life in Texas, and thanks to the warm climate and no winters, the sheetmetal is in fantastic condition. Super straight bodywork reflects beautifully under the brilliant Torch Red finish and someone invested the time to give it a wet sand and buff to really make it shiny. Gaps are good all around and the doors close easily without a heavy slam, a good indicator of a car that hasn’t been bent. Vents on the hood are a traditional Chevrolet performance look from the ’60, and while they’re not functional, they do get the point across. Of course, the crossed-flag emblems advertising 396 cubic inches inside (which isn’t quite the full story—more on that in a moment) and SS badges certainly don’t hurt. The SS models received a blacked-out grille that looks menacing and the flying buttress C-pillars are one of the Chevelle’s best features. The chrome trim is probably original and is in good to excellent condition and it’s nice to see that all the factory details remain, from the window surrounds to the taillights.

There’s a brand new code 763-B black vinyl bucket seat interior, which is how this car was equipped from the factory. Slide in and you’ll find a wood-rimmed wheel that warms things up a bit and a full array of factory gauges in the dash. Someone has cleverly integrated a tachometer into the console clock location, as well as a trick B&M shifter using the original bezel. Again, the workmanship is impressive on a car in this price range. There’s also a newer AM/FM radio in the dash, but given the sound of the big block, you may never use it. Seat belts have been added for safety—not a bad idea—and custom floor mats protect the carpets. There’s enough brightwork inside to make the Chevelle feel upscale and workmanship on the interior is excellent—the back seat looks like new, the headliner is taut, and there are few nits to pick. The trunk shows off that clean Texas sheetmetal and has proper spatter-finish paint for an OEM look.

All SS Chevelles were equipped with one of three 396 cubic inch V8s, but this one recently received a stout 454 cubic inch version (although with an .030 overbore, it’s actually a 462). With numerous upgrades like Edelbrock aluminum heads, Air Gap intake, and a big 4-barrel carburetor, it’s downright nasty. There’s a big cam inside so it has that lopey muscle car idle and there’s massive torque on tap at virtually any speed. With about 2000 miles on the build, it’s still very fresh and looks awesome with chrome valve covers, braided stainless fuel lines, and wiring that was carefully hidden out of sight. There’s also an MSD ignition system, heavy-duty alternator, and a big radiator with electric fan to keep it cool. Elaborate long-tube headers snake through the inner fenders, which is very race-car-like, but its manners suggest that it was built for the street. Turn the key, let the fuel pump prime the carb, and it cackles to life without much fussing. You’d better believe it sounds serious.

Underneath, there’s a fresh TCI TH350 3-speed automatic transmission with a shift kit and a custom torque converter, a new driveshaft, and a built Curry Enterprises 9-inch Ford rear end with 4.11 gears inside. Yes, a Ford rear end in a Chevy, but if you want bulletproof performance, that’s not a bad way to go. Those long-tube headers feed a cackling dual exhaust system with Flowmaster mufflers and chrome tips under the rear bumper, and it has the soundtrack to match its performance. Heavy-duty control arms manage the rear end and help plant the power and there are recent shocks all around. Please note the clean inner rockers and floors, solid quarter panel extensions, and zero issues in the frame—this car has led a good life. The stance is exactly right, and it’s enhanced by polished Weld Pro-Star wheels and staggered 215/65/15 front and 275/60/15 rear BFGoodrich radials.

Yes, it’s brutally fast and has a big motor attitude, but the beautifully finished interior and gorgeous bodywork suggest that this car was built for the street. If horsepower is your thing, this Chevelle delivers in a big way without being crude and rude about it. A whole lot of car for not a lot of cash. Call today!

Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to purchase.