Classic Car parts Classic Chevelle SS History 1965 to 1967

Classic Car Parts Co.

The GTO with the 389 was the predominate muscle car at the end of 1964, Chevrolet need an answer to the GTO. The muscle car wars were heating up, Chevrolet fired back in 1965 with the Z-16, and this Classic Chevelle  was a limited edition 396. Only 201 vehicles were produced with the 375 horsepower engine, a redesigned suspension featuring power steering, anti-roll bars for the front and rear end. Added to this package was a Muncie 4 speed transmission with a rear end ratio change from 3.31 to 4.56. The base SS still came with a 283 ci, 195 while the flag ship Chevelle SS was the Z79 327 producing 250 hp. Production dropped for the SS by 4000 units, a total of 72,500 cars will be produced in 1965.

As the war continued Chevrolet is still catching up in the horsepower battle. By 1966 the 283 and 327 engines will be dropped, the 396 is now the standard engine, the output on this engine will range from 325 to 375 depending on the configuration. Because of the higher torque and weight of these engines the Chevelle’s will come with heavier springs and shocks to counter the adverse handling. At the same time the SS will be renamed to the SS396 to emphasize the 396 ci engine. Along with a different bumper, hood scoops to give the car a more aggressive appearance. 1966 would see production total of 72,272 cars, the success is because of the competitive price, style, and of course the performance.

1967 would see more changes and additions, front disc brakes, larger tires, three speed automatic, three and four speed manual transmission, along with the two speed automatic. Attached to a 396 ci 325 horsepower standard this was a true muscle car. One draw back due to GM corporate policy of one Brake Horse Power per ten pounds of curb weight will be the L34 engine, the 375 hp option will no longer be available.