When it comes to classic American muscle cars, few models are as iconic as the Chevrolet Chevelle. First introduced in 1964, the Chevelle was a mid-sized car that quickly became known for its powerful engines and sleek design. One of the most sought-after versions of the Chevelle was the SS 396, which was produced from 1966 to 1968. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396, examining its history, features, specifications, and legacy.
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History
The 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 was part of the second generation of Chevelles, which were produced from 1964 to 1972. The SS 396 was a high-performance version of the Chevelle that was designed to compete with other muscle cars of the era, such as the Ford Mustang and the Plymouth Barracuda. The SS 396 was powered by a big-block V8 engine that produced 325 horsepower, although a more powerful version with 360 horsepower was also available.
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Features and Specifications
Engine
The 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 was powered by a 6.5-liter big-block V8 engine. The engine was rated at 325 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, although a more powerful version with 360 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque was available. The engine featured a four-barrel carburetor and was mated to either a four-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission.
Transmission
The Chevelle SS 396 was available with either a four-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission. The four-speed manual transmission was a close-ratio Muncie M21, which was known for its durability and smooth shifting. The three-speed automatic transmission was a Turbo Hydra-Matic 400, which was also reliable and provided smooth shifting.
Exterior
The exterior of the 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 was sleek and stylish, with a long hood, short deck, and clean lines. The car featured a blacked-out grille, a hood with functional air scoops, and dual exhaust pipes. The SS 396 also had unique badging, including “SS 396” emblems on the grille, fenders, and trunk lid.
Interior
The interior of the Chevelle SS 396 was designed for both comfort and performance. The car featured bucket seats with optional vinyl or cloth upholstery, a sporty three-spoke steering wheel, and a center console with a floor-mounted shifter. The dashboard was simple but functional, with a large speedometer and tachometer.
Performance
The 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 was a powerful car that could go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in around 6.5 seconds. The car had a top speed of around 130 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest cars of its time. The SS 396 also had impressive handling, with a stiff suspension and power-assisted front disc brakes.
Legacy
The 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 was a popular car among muscle car enthusiasts, and it has become a sought-after collector’s item. The car’s powerful engine, sleek design, and impressive performance have made it a classic of the era. The Chevelle SS 396 also helped to establish Chevrolet as a leader in the muscle car market, and it paved the way for other iconic models such as the Camaro and Corvette.
Conclusion
The 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 is a classic American muscle car that has stood the test of time. Its powerful engine, sleek design, and impressive performance have made it a favorite among car enthusiasts, and it remains a sought-after collector’s item to this day. Whether you’re a fan of classic muscle cars or just appreciate the beauty of a well-crafted automobile, the Chevelle SS 396 is a car that is sure to impress.
FAQs
What is the top speed of the 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396?
The top speed of the 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 was around 130 miles per hour.
How fast could the Chevelle SS 396 go from 0 to 60 miles per hour?
The Chevelle SS 396 could go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in around 6.5 seconds.
What kind of transmission was available for the Chevelle SS 396?
The Chevelle SS 396 was available with either a four-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission.
What was the horsepower of the Chevelle SS 396’s engine?
The Chevelle SS 396 was powered by a 6.5-liter big-block V8 engine that produced 325 horsepower, although a more powerful version with 360 horsepower was also available.
What made the Chevelle SS 396 stand out from other muscle cars of its time?
The Chevelle SS396 stood out from other muscle cars of its time due to its powerful engine, sleek design, and impressive performance. It was also one of the first high-performance mid-sized cars, which helped to establish Chevrolet as a leader in the muscle car market.
I’m Timothy Ballard, owner of a used car dealership in Springfield. I love just about everything automotive, but I have a special place in my heart for trucks. I’m an ASE Certified Master Technician, so I know my way around a car. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling with my family and hiking new trails.