Despite these cars commonly being called the Chevelle Z16, the Z16 cars were badged as a “Malibu SS”, and Chevrolet called them the Malibu SS in their literature. The Z16 was created to help produce buzz for the upcoming regular production 1966 SS396. In the end only 201 were built, mostly going to VIPs. Its performance upgrades included the 375-hp 元7 396, a stiffer boxed convertible chassis, larger brakes, and a performance suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars. The Z16 option was a performance oriented package. It did however require a number of mandatory options including power steering and brakes, tachometer, 4-speed transmission with 2.56 low gear, AM/FM stereo, deluxe front belts, rear seat belts and instrument panel pad. This option package was limited to the V8 Malibu SS hardtop or convertible. In March of 1965, a new option package was released on a very limited basis for the Malibu SS, known as RPO Z16. The Malibu SS stayed the same for 1965, available in the same four model variations (although model numbers were changed). These cars all had Malibu SS or Malibu Super Sport nameplates on the car and were called the same in GM literature. These included bucket seats, Malibu SS specific trim and emblems, a center console (with Powerglide or 4-speed), clock and a gauge package (excluding a tach). The Malibu SS only offered trim and appearance upgrades over a Malibu. The Malibu SS was not a performance package like the GTO, and it included no performance upgrades. Therefore, the 1964 Malibu SS lineup consisted of four distinct models and two body styles. It is important to remember Chevrolet had separate model designations for six and V8 cars. In its first year the Malibu SS was a separate series, available as a 2-door hardtop and convertible, either six or V8. When Chevrolet released the Chevelle for the 1964 model year, the model lineup consisted of the three distinct series the Chevelle 300, the Malibu and the Malibu Super Sport. So, let’s do an overview of Chevrolet’s intermediate Super Sport models. Even though much has been written about the Chevrolet Chevelle Super Sports, the history is still unclear to some. There seemed to be some debate on whether the car was called the Chevelle SS, the Malibu SS, whether it was a distinct model or an option package? Well to answer in short, all of the above. The El Camino SS was available with 350, 396 and 454 motors.ġ972's sales increased by 10,000 over the previous year's and the styling was only slightly changed.I was reading the recently reposted CC on the 1976 Laguna and I noticed some discussion about the Chevelle SS in the comments. A new SS-454 debuted at mid-model year.ġ971 saw the headlights changed to single Power-Beams and the grill resembled an ice-cube tray. The SS-396 was still available, although the engine was actually a 402 big-block. In 1970, the front end was blunted somewhat and the headlamps were enclosed in square bezels. (note: Acording to the owner, the front end on this example is not 100% accurate for a 69 model) The list price for the six-cylinder model was $2,552.00 and the V-8 powered Custom listed for $2,723.00. The SS-396 got front disk brakes and red striped tires. The Elky's appearance was slightly altered in 1969. The SS-396 option included a blacked-out grill, SS emblems, a bulging hood, larger Wide-Oval tires and the lower body was given the blackout treatment. The overall length grew by 10 inches, and the bed size was increased. It had a "flying buttress" roof and the wheelbase was one inch longer. In 1968, the Elky got a big styling change. This version of the Elky was tested by Hot Rod magazine and turned a 13.44 quarter-mile at The ultimate option for 1970 was an LS-6 454īig block with 11.25:1 compression, special camshaft and solid lifters boasting 450 hp. This big block phenomenon continued until 1970, when the newĤ54 V8 (360 hp) was available for only a $514 option cost. In 1968 the El Camino SS was available with a 396Ĭubic inch motor in 325 and 350 hp versions. Popular Chevelle platform and shared the new styling.
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