Photos: Mecum Auctions

When Chevrolet introduced the 1970 Chevelle, Richard Nixon had just become President of the United States and gasoline cost 35 cents a gallon. Styling revisions gave the car’s exterior a more powerful, bullnose look. More significantly, the new model also introduced the most powerful Chevelle SS ever built, even to this date. It’s a good thing gas was so cheap.

Starting with the 1970 model year, availability of the SS option was limited to the Malibu 2-door Sport Coupe and convertible. The SS 396 Chevelle used the 396 cui, 350 hp Turbo-Jet V-8, special suspension, power-dome hood, black-accented grille and wide-oval tires on sport wheels.

The top dog, however, was the 455 cui V8-equipped SS 454 Chevelle. The standard engine was the LS5 version that delivered 360 hp @ 5400rpm and 500 t-lb of torque @ 3200rpm. While the LS5 was a stout performer, the LS6 model was where it was at.

All the good stuff went into this beast, including a forged crankshaft, pistons and connecting rods, four bolt main bearing journals, an 11.25 compression ratio and solid lifters. Topping the big block were an aluminum intake manifold and an 800 cfm Holley 4-barrel carburetor.

The result was an unheard of (in its time) output of 450 hp @ 5600rpm and 500 ft-lb @ 3600rpm, yielding performance results of 6.1 seconds for the 0-60 and timeslips in the 1/4 mile of 13.7 sec @ 103 mph. While the ZL1 and L88 427 engines were used in some special cars built for racing, the LS6 Chevelle SS 454 stands tall as the most powerful RPO (Regular Production Order) Chevelle ever.

The SS 454 example shown here is a fully optioned version, including the cowl induction hood, power disk brakes, bucket seats, light group and factory stripe package. The numbers-matching drivetrain backs up the LS6 engine with a Muncie M22 manual transmission and a 3.31 ratio rear  axle.

But for a replacement windshield, all sheet metal, wheels, stainless trim, brightwork and glass are said to be original. A meticulous restoration has brought the car into line with the highest standards, making it a top flight example of the breed.

This Chevelle is coming up for auction at the three day long Mecum Daytime Auction, August 18 – 20 in Monterey, CA.

To be held on the Del Monte Golf Course at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa, the event promises to be a unique experience. Additional details are available at the event web site.