[1]Photo: Mecum Auto Auctions
[2]Photo: Mecum Auto Auctions
Since its introduction in 1964, the Chevelle has always been the Chev enthusiast’s first choice for mid-sized muscle. From the time of its introduction, the mid-sized sedan from Chevy had been offered with various styling trims and performance packages, but as the ’60s gems become increasingly scarce and expensive, enthusiasts are looking to grab-on to the most premium-optioned cars that are still in existence.
One of the most premium-optioned of the early, ’64-’65 Chevelle/Malibu fleet was the SS, L-79 option, which included Chevy’s most potent version of the small block for that time, the 350-horse version of Chevy’s Turbo-Fire, 327 V8. This particular L-79 car from Mecum [3] is an original, “Regal Red” ’65 Chevelle SS with less than 37,000 original miles accumulated. The L-79 Chevelle is also documented, with original sales records dating back to Walls Chevrolet of Konawa, Oklahoma, including the Owner’s Protection Plan, original “Protect-O-Plate” and owner’s manual.
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This '65 L-79 optioned, Chevelle SS from Mecum features SS-correct bucket seats with correct trim, and a 350-horse, L-79 small block V8 (Photos: Mecum).
Under the hood of this stout SS is a correct, L-79 327 small block with the famous L-79 dual-snorkel air cleaner, aluminum intake, high-lift cam and 11.1:1 compression to make 350bhp. The small block chases a Muncie, M20 synchromesh 4-speed, which is also factory-correct. The SS trim package includes a gauge cluster and special, glovebox insignia, a chrome-trimmed console and black bucket seats.
[6]Photo: Mecum Auto Auctions
Historically speaking, the Chevelle was Chevy’s introduction into the world of mid-sized, super-stock worthy performance. For the mid-sized GM enthusiast who is looking for a well-optioned car with plenty of paperwork to back it up, this L-79 optioned, ’65 SS is a perfect platform, but as the die-hard enthusiasts “mob” these cars up, it is most likely that they will become–if not already–among the rarest of gems in the realm of all-things General.