Here is a real treat for Chevelle lovers. It is a genuine 1971 SS454 that has been fully restored with just over 500 miles since completion. With a show quality finish and monster big block, the final product looks and performs better than it did off the showroom floor. It also retains many of its factory options included air conditioning, cowl induction, power front disc brakes, and more.

This Chevelle has spent its life in San Antonio, Texas where it was sold new by Newt Godfree Chevrolet. The original build sheet from 12-15-70 and a copy of the original title from 3-25-71 are included along with an original plaque from the dealership. However, after a decade of hard use the car was parked in 1982 and forgotten for 21 years. At that point it was in pretty rough shape (see the pictures at the end of the ad) though still a solid SS454. In 2003 it was listed for $7,500 and sold to another San Antonio resident who proceeded to strip the car down and begin a full restoration. When nearly completed, a bent valve stalled the project for almost nine years. In 2016 it was sold to another San Antonio resident who finished the job and took everything to another level including high quality paint and a performance engine rebuild.

The car is finished in its original code 26 Mulsanne Blue with a black vinyl top and black stripes. The paint is excellent as is the vinyl top. Same with all the chrome and moldings. It also includes the correct emblems, hood pins, and a working cowl induction setup. The underside looks great too; be sure to see the shots of the rocker panels. This Chevelle rolls on US Mags wheels with Nitto NT555 tires (245/45ZR17 front, 295/40ZR18 rear).

The original 454ci engine is nowhere it be found, likely the victim of abuse in the 70’s. However, its replacement provides a significant upgrade. It was built by Long’s Machine and uses a 3999289 block with 353049 oval port heads. Everything was worked over and many performance parts installed. Highlights include a hydraulic roller camshaft, roller rockers, Edelbrock intake, and Quick Fuel carburetor. There is also an electric fuel pump, MSD ignition (hidden under the dashboard), and ceramic coated Hedman headers. Additional features include a serpentine belt drive and dual electric cooling fans. The exhaust is a full 3” with H-pipe and sounds fantastic!

The transmission is a robust TH400 automatic feeding a 12-bolt rear end. There is power steering for easy parking lot maneuvers along with power front disc brakes. The front suspension looks OEM original while the rear uses fully boxed trailing arms along with adjustable upper links. Everywhere you look on the car you see new or replaced components. There are countless receipts as well.

The entire interior was redone; seat covers, door panels, carpet, headliner, etc. It retains a stock appearance except for underdash oil pressure and volt gauges. Note this is a factory bench seat, column shifted SS. The original three-pod instrument cluster was rebuilt and a tachometer was added (this was not standard equipment on the SS package). The factory air conditioning system was rebuilt and uses R134a refrigerant with a modern compressor. There is also a hidden sound system that sounds almost as good as the engine.

This Chevelle has so much going for it; a real SS454, a complete restoration, and an impressive list of upgrades coupled with excellent looks, sound, and performance. Further, this car represents one of the most desirable cars from the era. With its more powerful motor and other improvements, it makes for a Chevelle that not only screams “muscle car” but is also a thrill to drive.