1968 CHEVELLE SS 396 NO 56
Real 138 SS convertible One of only 2,286 produced
Matching numbers, 396/325 HP engine Frame off Restoration
Completely rebuilt engine and Turbo 400 Transmission and console shifter
Power steering Power top
Refinished in Matador Red with Parchment bucket seat interior
A stunning and very rare SS 396
The Second Generation Chevelle (1968)
“The 1968 Chevelle got an all-new distinctly sculpted body with tapered front fenders and a rounded beltline. The designers adopted a long hood / short deck profile with a rear-quarter `Kick –up.’ While all Chevelle models prior to 1968 rode on a 115 in (2,900 mm) wheelbase , the new 1968 coupes and convertibles now rode on a sporty 112 in (2,800mmm) wheelbase. Tread width grew an inch front and rear. Top-trim models (including the SS 396) … featured GM’s new Hide-A-Way wiper system. Lesser Chevelles would get that later. The Super Sport SS 396 convertible and El Camino pickup became a series on their own.
“In the 1968 model year “Chevrolet produced only 2,286 Chevelle SS convertibles. Black accented Super Sports rode F70x14 red-stripe tires and carried a standard 325 hp 396 cid Turbo-Jet engine below the twin domed hood. The SS 396 sport coupe started at $2,899.00 (US) –or $236.00 more than a comparable Malibu with its 307 cid V8. All vinyl bucket seats and a console were optional.”
“New Federal safety-mandated equipment included side-marker lights, as well as shoulder belts for outboard front seat occupants installed on cars built after December 1, 1967.”
The 396 engine in the 1968 Chevelle SS was noted as an L35 and was produced by General Motors from 1965-69. It featured compression of 10.25:1, a Q-jet carburetor, a nodular iron crankshaft, hydraulic lifters, oval-port closed chamber heads, and two-bolt main caps. Although rated to produce 325 hp (242kW), like most so rated engines of the period, the L35 probably produced a good deal more power than that. (GM: W and Big Block Engines)
The Lang Collection in featuring Chevelle SS convertible models from 1967 through 1970 allows the viewer to appreciate the gradual evolution of these fine machines. These changes are noted not only in both the design and trim levels but also in the increase in engine power. Take your time and value these fine examples of North American craftsmanship and engineering.