RESERVE REMOVED: 46k-Mile 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Sport Coupe 4-Speed

OVERVIEW

This unrestored big-block 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Sport Coupe features a twist found on few other Super Sports: not only does it receive power from a numbers-matching L78 Turbo-Jet 396cid V8 backed by a Muncie M21 close-ratio four-speed manual transmission, but it also is one of the few that features a Buick interior, as this Chevelle was built during a labor dispute from a supplier. It was originally delivered to Acme Chevrolet Company in Robinson, Illinois, and is said to have accrued 46,505 original miles. Equipment includes redline tires, an AM radio, and power brakes. Finished in Matador Red and equipped with a black vinyl roof over a black vinyl interior, this second-generation Chevelle is now offered with build documentation, official Chevrolet correspondence, a National Corvette Restorers Society Shipping Data Report, removed original suspension parts, and a clear title in the seller’s name.

EXTERIOR – FEATURES

The original Matador Red (code R) exterior features quad headlights, a driver-side mirror, chrome brightwork, a black vinyl top, and SS badging. The seller notes some rust on the driver-side rear quarter panel behind the tire as well as a hole drilled into the driver-side front fender. Close-up images of these areas and other exterior blemishes have been provided in the gallery to the right.

EXTERIOR – WHEELS AND TIRES

Steel 14-inch wheels with polished SS-branded hubcaps are wrapped in redline tires.

INTERIOR – FEATURES

Due to a labor dispute, this urestored 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 is one of at least 91 Chevelle two-doors known to exist with a Buick Skylark (code 766-178) bucket seat interior, which is documented in the included correspondence from Chevrolet. The layout includes black vinyl bucket seats, a rear bench, and matching materials for the door panels, dash, center console, and lap belts. According to the seller, the entire interior is original aside from the newer carpeting. Features include a heater, a push-button AM radio, manual-crank windows, and a trunk-mounted spare tire. The upholstery on the upper part of the rear seat has been repaired.

INTERIOR – GAUGES

Instrumentation includes a 120-mph speedometer, a 7,000-rpm barrel-style tachometer, a clock, and gauges for the oil pressure, coolant temperature, voltage, and fuel level. The five-digit mechanical odometer reads 46,505 miles, which the seller reports to be accurate.

ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION

The numbers-matching L78 Turbo-Jet 396cid big-block V8 was rated at 375 horsepower when new and is said to retain its original exhaust manifolds and distributor. An oil change was performed within the last year. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a Muncie M21 close-ratio four-speed manual transmission. The transmission housing is stamped P8D01, which translates to the gearbox being built on the first day of April 1968. According to the seller, this Chevelle originally had a 4.56:1 rear end, but now has 4.11:1 gears.

UNDERCARRIAGE

The rear control arm, shock absorbers, and exhaust system have been replaced. Braking is power-assisted. Photos showing the underside are available in the carousel.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

The sale includes build documentation, official Chevrolet correspondence regarding the Buick interior, a National Corvette Restorers Society (NCRS) Shipping Data Report, and the removed original rear control arm and shocks.