Several days ago, I opined that 1964 was the most significant year in the ’60s, although enthusiasts often cite 1970. Our Pick of the Day is one of the biggest reasons why 1970 is often thought of as the peak of the era. This LS6-powered 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 Sport Coupe is listed on ClassicCars.com by a dealership in Marietta, Georgia.
The 1970 Chevelle has its fans, with many feeling it’s the best-looking Chevelle ever. However, there’s almost an equal number of fans who believe the 1969 Chevelle was the most attractive of the bunch. Whatever your opinion may be, the 1970 edition appeared somewhat stockier, thanks to rounded edges and slight bulges above the wheel wells. A newly designed domed hood contributed to the tougher look. Inside, a new gauge cluster had Hot Rod pointing out “you can see them all and they all work.”
There were changes under the hood as well. First, the 396 was bored slightly to measure 402ci, though it was still marketed as a 396 for Z25 Super Sports (plus, it was newly available on regular Chevelles as order code LS3, though confusingly marketed as a 330-horsepower 400). Next, the new base engine for the SS 396 was the L34, still rated at 350 horses. The 375-horsepower L78 was still available.
However, within a few months of production, the Z15 SS 454 package was introduced. The base engine was the LS5, a 360-horsepower “Rat” that was akin to the 390-horse version available for full-size Chevrolets and the Corvette. The LS6 upgrade was akin to a big-bore version of the L78 or a stroked version of the L72 427, all solid-lifter engines that were quite in their respective classes. When the LS6 was introduced, Chevrolet decided to discontinue the L78, leaving three available Super Sport engines.
For the first time, the Chevelle Super Sport was available with air induction. The domed hood stayed the same, but now it featured a rear-facing lid at the cowl that opened under hard acceleration. Branded Cowl Induction (like the system introduced for the 1969 Camaro), the option included “band-aid” stripes in white or black. The stripes were also available as a stand-alone option.
The LS6 option was a resounding success for Chevrolet, with 4,475 built among SS 454 hardtops, convertibles, and El Caminos. In fact, more LS6s were built than LS5s—that’s an anomaly somewhat like the 390 Mustang we recently discussed. This LS6-powered 1970 Chevelle SS 454 Sport Coupe shows many of the things that made the Chevelle hot, including stripes, air induction, and SS wheels. What’s more unusual is the Gobi Beige hue, which doesn’t scream horsepower but certainly screams 1970. Originally built in Baltimore, it was sold new at City Motors Company in Great Falls, Montana. Early in its life, the original LS6 was replaced by a factory-warranty block. “Refinished circa 2005 in the factory Gobi Beige (50) with black SS stripes; Dark Gold vinyl roof (H) replaced at the same time,” says the seller. “15-inch Super Sport-style wheels with trim rings/caps.” The windshield also was replaced. Tires are BFGoodrich Radial T/As, 215/60R15 up front and 255/60R15 at the rear. Other features include power steering and front disc brakes, gauges, and an M22 close-ratio “Rock Crusher” four-speed. Modifications include Edelbrock cylinder heads, a Melling oil pump, an HEI distributor, and an X-pipe with MagnaFlow mufflers, among others.
The current owner has had this vehicle for 55 years, which means it has had one owner for the bulk of its life. Clearly, he is in the 1970 camp. The question for you is: For $149,900, will you be?
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com