This 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 was sold new by Bosco Buick Chevrolet in Blairesville, Pennsylvania and is finished in Cranberry Red with black stripes and a Black interior. The L34 396 V8 is believed to be original and is backed by an M20 wide-ratio 4-speed manual and 3.31 Positraction rear end. Acquired six months ago from its second owner, this example received a $15k mechanical refresh of the engine, transmission, and suspension in December of 2014 and has been driven little since. Delivery options included power steering and brakes with discs up front, SS badging, Cowl Induction hood, and an uprated gauge package. This mechanically sorted SS is reported to have no current mechanical issues, accident damage, or prior body repairs. The seller is representing the car for its current owner, and it is sold with a copy of the original build sheet, original owner’s manual, and a clean Massachusetts title.
A single repaint in original Cranberry Red is thought to have been completed by the second owner at an unknown date. The finish retains a good shine and appears to have been applied to a good standard over straight sheet metal. The seller notes a bit of overspray, and some likely filler skim-over at the lower corners of both doors where a magnet holds but is comparatively weak.
This SS rides on original spec 14″ sport wheels, showing good shine and no obvious chips, abrasions, or curb rash. Goodyear Eagle ST raised white letter tires are mounted all round.
A partial decode of the original broadcast sheet shows the following build specs:
- Model 13637 – Malibu Sport Coupe
- Trans WB4F – M20 wide-ratio 4-speed, floor shift
- Axle CF (G80, G91) – 3.31:1 Positraction
- Wheels YA – sport size 14×7, offset 0.34
- Trim 756 – Black vinyl, bucket seats
- Color 75 – Cranberry Red
- ST B (D88) – Black Hood & Deck Stripes
Additional factory options shown include:
- ZL3 – SS 396 Conversion
- L34 – V8 396 4-Barrel
- F41 – SPC Performance Suspension
- N40 – Power Steering
- J50 – Power Brakes
- JL2 – Power Disc Front Brakes
- B22 – Door Emblem SS
- ZL2 – SPC Duct Hood
- U14 – IP Gauges
The Cowl Induction option (ZL2) includes hood pins and a functional scoop that opens at full throttle.
The driver-quality interior is said to retain mostly original materials and trim. Black vinyl seats appear solid with visible looseness, while door panels and hard surfaces are in good condition for their age but show some wear. The SS center emblem on the steering wheel was a redesign for 1970. The seller reports all lighting and switchgear are working, as are the gauges in the optional Instrument Package (U14 ). The functioning five digit odometer indicates 63k miles and is believed to be accurate.
The final 7 digits of the stamping (#10B108713) seen above match the end of the VIN, indicating this Chevelle likely retains its original motor.
Repainted as part of a December 2016 engine-out mechanical refresh, this SS396 big block was rated at 350 horsepower in L34 spec when new. The seller reports the engine is a strong runner and has covered limited miles since the refresh, which also included:
- Compression and leak down test
- Camshaft and lifters replaced
- Timing set, carb tuned, and engine run-in
- Fuel pump, water pump, thermostat, valve covers, and intake manifold replaced
- Starter, distributer, and plugs replaced
- Wiring inspected and repaired
- Engine mounts and rear main seal replaced
- Engine, transmission, and engine compartment cleaned
- Engine compartment paint touch-up
Underbody and frame show no signs of rust or accident damage according to the seller. Light surface corrosion and pitting is visible on some suspension components and exhaust tubing. Undercarriage updates completed in 2014 included a front-end alignment and replacement of the following components:
- Exhaust manifolds
- Transmission bearings, synchros, gaskets and seals
- Clutch
- Suspension bushings
- Front and rear upper/lower control arms
- Shocks, with RCD Bilsteins
- Rear sway bar and sway bar links
- Brake master cylinder, vacuum booster, and hold-off valve
- Power steering box, lines, and pump brackets
