In a previous life, late-1960s Chevelles and Camaros were the absolute bane of my existence when putting together an auction listing. The reason? Figuring out if a car was a true Super Sport could require a deep dive of research because the distinction wasn’t indicated in the VIN. Our Pick of the Day doesn’t have that issue because it has the “138” VIN prefix. This 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Sport Coupe is listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealer in Palmer, Massachusetts.
A 1966 Chevrolet advertisement begins, “Personally, we don’t like the idea of a car that goes like a bird when the road’s like a ruler.” This is referring to the SS 396 and taking a firm stance against any notion that the Chevelle was anything close to being an only quarter mile vehicle. Chevrolet wanted interested parties to recognize that in addition to three different 396ci Turbo-Jet V-8 engines, Super Sports were also equipped with a factory-upgraded suspension that included full coils with double-acting shock absorbers at each wheel, a stiff front anti-sway bar, and special frame reinforcements.
This Super Sport 396 has received one repaint in its factory Aztec Bronze color since new. The original “M-code” hue surrounds the original Soft-Ray glass, dual chrome side mirrors, chrome brightwork, and Super Sport badging. Its classic, nostalgia-inducing beauty is accentuated by 15-inch Rally wheels that are wrapped in BFGoodrich white-letter tires. The seller also mentions the vehicle will be sold with the correct 14-inch steel wheels with “original N96 option mag-style caps” wrapped in radial tires in the chance its new owner prefers a more stock look.
Glance inside and one can notice the pristine “code 709” Medium and Light Fawn vinyl upholstery, period-correct steering wheel, aftermarket 7,000-rpm “knee-knocker” tachometer, power steering, and manual windows. Even with the dedication to match the vehicle’s trim tag, this Chevelle still has some components installed that make it more comfortable: It has been equipped with a set of aftermarket oil pressure and water temperature gauges, an under-dash air conditioning system, and a retro-looking AM/FM stereo with Bluetooth for entertainment.
Underneath the hood sits the matching-numbers “EM-code” 325-horsepower 396ci Turbo-Jet V-8 with the original smog plate, correct GM hoses and components, and chrome air breather with factory decals. The original two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission has been upgraded to a five-speed Tremec TKX manual equipped with McLeod clutch setup.
The star of the undercarriage is the “CW-code” 12-bolt 3.31 single-traction rear end, which includes a supporting cast of power brakes, factory upgraded suspension components, and a dual exhaust system.
Depending on where the next owner of this 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Sport Coupe resides, it may be the first time this vehicle has ever left the state of Kentucky. With its original sheet metal and only four owners since new, this $79,900 muscle car will look great in any driveway.
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com
