The Chevelle SS 454 made its debut in 1970 and immediately became a legend. Photo from {http://www.barrett-jackson.com/Events/Event/Details/1970-CHEVROLET-CHEVELLE-SS-454-180621}www.barrett-jackson.com{/link}

Chevrolet’s Chevelle had been competing respectably in the very difficult musclecar marketplace with it’s SS 396 version since 1965. When the Chevy lineup for 1970 rolled out at the peak of the musclecar era, a new supercar led the way. Chevy’s 1970 Chevelle SS 454 is considered by many to be the greatest musclecar of all time and it’s launch is one of the most historic moments in Chevrolet’s long history.

The Chevelle’s 454ci big-block was the largest displacement production Chevy V8 engine ever made at that time. Allowing a huge engine over 400-cubic inches in a mid-sized car was unheard of prior to this. The result was an immediate legend which has only grown larger as time goes by.

The Chevelle’s LS6 454 became a star in its own right. Photo from {http://www.barrett-jackson.com/Events/Event/Details/1970-CHEVROLET-CHEVELLE-SS-454-180621}www.barrett-jackson.com{/link}

The Super Sport (SS) package was Chevelle’s highest performance option with quad headlamps, two-part grille, and the iconic domed hood. The SS 454ci 450-horsepower big-block was clocked from zero to 100 mph in 13 seconds, which was spectacular for a production car in that day.

These were not inexpensive cars either which contributes to their scarcity today. Only 3,733 were built in 1970. Less than 4,000 for the entire year! Because of their rarity, these cars command top dollar at serious auctions now. We found one that sold in Scottsdale, Arizona, at the Barrett-Jackson auction in January of 2015. The car listed as lot 1055 sold for $176,000.00.

The 1970 Chevelle SS 454 has become so iconic that the GM Heritage Center paid homage to the original with a retro restoration and modern engine package. Photo from www.gmheritagecenter.com

The 1970 Chevelle SS 454 could be outfitted with one of two different 454ci V8 engines. The LS5 option which made about 360hp off of the showroom floor, or the LS6. The LS6 is the investment grade collector car that everyone wants but few can afford. Sold as producing 450hp, which many consider underrated, the larger valves, solid lifters and Holley 4557 or 4150 carburetor made all the difference and entered this classic into Chevy’s top 5 greatest moments of all time.