Although the classic muscle car needs a lot of work, this barn find is perfect for someone willing to put in the time to bring it back to life.
Classic muscle cars are old goods, but that’s part of their appeal. But when people buy these pieces of automotive history, they usually want to make sure that these are worth every penny. Someone found this 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS in a barn and is now trying to find a new owner for the classic muscle car.
Still With Numbers-Matching Engine
Found in an open part of a barn in Five Points, Tennessee, this 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS (Super Sport) is eager to find a new garage since its owner has too many projects. This was the model year when the SS got a 396 c.i. V8 as standard. The year before, a very high-output 396 V8 was optional, but it was very expensive and thus only 201 examples were built. So 1966 was essentially the first time that anybody who bought a Chevelle SS automatically enjoyed 396 big block power (albeit not as powerful as the 1965’s optional mill). At that point, the Chevelle SS 396 became the Chevy equivalent of the Pontiac GTO which featured either a 389- or a 400- cubic-inch V8 under its hood.
The seller revealed little information on this classic muscle car, including the fact that it still has its original, numbers matching 396 c.i. engine. However, the seller didn’t say which version of the 396 engine lives under the hood of this Chevelle. While the 1966 Chevelle SS 396 featured an L35 edition of the engine with 325 hp, it was also available with the optional L34 with 360 hp as well as the optional L78 with 375 hp.
Missing Transmission And Driveshaft
According to the seller, while this Chevelle SS 396 still has its classic muscular heart, other related parts are missing. The Chevelle SS 396 used to have a 4-speed transmission, but somehow the gearbox and the driveshaft don’t exist anymore. Furthermore, the seller remarked that they haven’t cranked its 396 engine in years.
With the classic muscle car missing its transmission and driveshaft, it’s unlikely that this Chevelle SS 396 would start running unless its buyer rebuilds it. Perhaps the buyer could swap in a new motor should they find the 396 engine already too unfit for resurrection. This Chevelle SS could make a restomod project, considering that its true condition is a mystery.
Solid Frame With Lots Of Rust Elsewhere
The seller noted that its probably original 12-bolt rear remains intact although the seats and the carpet inside are gone. Its hood isn’t an original component and its frame appears to be solid. According to the seller and as evident in the images, various sections of the Chevelle SS 396 need metal work due to rust. With those issues in mind, the foundation is still a great starting point for a classic muscle car restoration project.
