1966 Chevy Chevelle SS396

The 1966 Chevelle received a totally new exterior giving it a look that was like a scaled-down version of Chevrolet’s full-size models. The sport coupes in particular closely the resembled the Impala with their fastback roofline.

This Tropic Turquoise 2-door hardtop you see here is a true 138 VIN car – the first three digits that signify a SS 396.

The 396 V8 engine was launched towards the end of the 1965 model year as an option. However, only about 201 of them were sold due to its late launch. 1966 then saw it launch as the basis for the SS models and the Chevelle SS396 was born!

side view of the 66 Chevelle SS 396
side view

Super Sport identification included a script on the rear quarter panels, SS396 emblem on the blackened grille and also on the rear deck. Also featured was a twin power blister hood that made it stand out further from standard Chevelles.

Rear view of the '66 Chevelle SS 396
rear view

Inside, the SS396 enjoyed bucket seats, center console and special instrumentation as standard. Having been an option during 1964 and 1965, the padded dash was now standard.

interior shot of the 66 Chevelle SS396
all-vinyl interior

Under the hood, as you’d expect, there is a 396 cubic inch V8 that outputs 325 horsepower. It’s paired with a Turbo-Hydromatic automatic transmission – a $147 option when the car was ordered new.

1966 Chevy 396 V8
396 cubic inch Turbo-Jet V8

You can see on the left of this immaculate engine is the air compressor that forms part of the air conditioning. As a factory fitted option (original cost $413) it adds to the desirability of this amazing car.

If you wanted one back in 1966 the 2-door hardtop started at $2,776 and the convertible $2,984.

The Chevelle SS396 did well during the ’66 model year, with 72,272 of them being sold. This figure is made up of 66,843 hardtops and 5,429 convertibles.

This ’66 Chevelle SS396 is currently for sale on eBay. (follow the link for even more photos)

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