Despite a major updating the previous year, the 1969 Chevelle lineup continued to change. The SS 396 devolved from a model on its own to an option for any two-door Chevelle, even the pedestrian 300-series. For 1969, the Super Sport option included a 325hp 396cui V-8 lurking under a double-domed hood, along with a special suspension to handle the additional power.
A black-out grille with the SS 396 emblem and a blackout rear panel added to the car’s visual distinction. More potent editions of the 396 engine could be found on the options list, developing 350 or 375 horsepower (280 kW), but the cost was close to that of the SS 454, which in solid-lifter, high-compression, LS-6 guise, pounded out a solid 450hp and 500 ft-lb of torque.
Not available to the general public, the ’69 Chevelle was also built with a L72 427cui V8, rated at 425bhp under the COPO (Central Office Production Order) system. An estimated 323 of these were built for racers, well connected customers and a few dealer principals as well.
Chevelle production for the 1969 model year topped a half million cars, of which some 86,300 are said to have been SS models. While there was a great variety of styles available, it’s sporty, performance image carried much of the car’s popularity in the market. Production would peak the following year, with even more outrageous combinations available, including the new Monte Carlo, of which 3,823 were built, equipped with a Z20 SS 454 equipment package.
As the dark years for muscle cars began to approach, Chevelle sales began to falter. The line was discontinued after the 1972 model year.
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