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2007 Shannons Melbourne Winter Classic Auction
Lot
33

1971 Chevrolet Chevelle 454 SS Coupe (LHD)

$69,000

melbourne

Sold

Specifications

Engine V8, 454-cid
Gearbox 3-speed automatic
Body Work Coupe
Colour Black
Interior Black
Trim Vinyl
Wheels Styled Steel
Brakes Discs/Drums

Description

This lot is no longer available

The mid-sized Chevelle represented an interesting chapter in the history of the American muscle car, with the SS 396 package helping it stake a claim as one of the undisputed kings of the drag strip as early as 1966. By 1970, the horsepower wars had caught up with the Chevelle to an extent, so Chevrolet released the ultimate 454-cid big-block V8. Available in two states of tune, the SS-454 package restored the Chevelle's quarter-mile credibility. The LS5 had a single Rochester Quadra-Jet carburettor and 10.25:1 compression ratio for 360 hp while the LS6 punched out 450 hp thanks to a Holley four-barrel and 11.25:1 compression ratio, not to mention four-bolt main bearings, heavy-duty connecting rods, solid-lifter camshaft and various trick items. All this resulted in some pretty impressive times over the quarter-mile - an LS6 did 13.81 seconds at an elapsed speed of 103.8 mph. The 454-cid engines were again available on the 1971 Chevelle, as an add-on option to the RPO Z15 Super Sport package (comprising power brakes with discs up front, sports suspension, blacked out paintwork, bonnet lock pins and hood scoop, sports wheels and unique interior appointments) with a choice of either automatic or manual transmissions. Exact production figures for the Chevelle SS-454 aren't documented but 19,292 of total Chevrolet production for 1971 came with the 454-cid V8 option. These days, any genuine, documented Chevelle SS-454 is a highly desirable piece of American muscle, miles ahead of its Motown rivals in performance, rarity and affordability.