Before the Pontiac GTO, American performance cars were on full-size platforms. Pontiac was one company that applied the GTO’s formula to the full-size 1965-67 2+2, but the public was not as interested. Curiously, Chevrolet introduced the SS 427 well after mid-size cars took over the performance market, though for some reason the manufacturer carried it through 1969 despite low sales. Our Pick of the Day is one of these full-size muscle cars, a 1969 Chevrolet SS 427 convertible listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealership in Depew, New York. (Click the link to view the listing)
Chevrolet was as much a performance brand in the early 1960s as Pontiac, but it was Pontiac that ushered in a new performance era with the GTO. Thanks to a mid-size platform with a distinct image, the GTO caught on while other brands were left scratching their respective heads why their cars didn’t have the same appeal. Buick and Oldsmobile both introduced mid-size big-blocks in 1965 that followed the GTO’s formula, but Chevrolet did not, instead relying on the Malibu SS with a surprisingly strong L79. However, the SS was not a performance model, and smart racers were only too happy to use the Chevelle 300 as a building block. Chevy fans were given a preview with the Chevelle with the Z16 option, a premium Malibu SS that showcased the new 396, but only 201 were built. For 1966, a Chevelle SS 396 was introduced, putting Chevrolet on equal parity with other GM divisions.
For 1967, Chevrolet applied the SS 396’s formula to the Impala Sport Coupe and Convertible with the Z24 SS 427 package. Included with the package were the L36 385-horsepower 427, three-speed manual transmission, hood with special engine-like ornamentation, special V-flagged emblems with 427 badges, SS 427 emblem on grille and rear deck, Super Sport wheel covers, special redline tires, Strato-bucket front seat with console or Strato-back conventional seat with center armrest, and more. Interestingly, it was possible to order a Super Sport with a 427 that was distinct from a Super Sport with the SS 427 package.
The Z24 package returned for 1968, but there were several changes. For one, the L72 427/425 engine was added to the option list. Plus, the new Impala Custom formal coupe was available with the Z24 package. Trim was reshuffled to reflect model year adjustments, such as a new domed hood and front fender louvers. And, as the SS now became an optional package, the Z24 package was available with or without Super Sport equipment.
For 1969, Chevrolet killed the Super Sport yet carried on with the Z24 package. Once again, it was available in three body styles, though the redesigned full-size Chevrolet eliminated the sleek fastback style of the Sport Coupe. The L36 427 was upgraded to 390 horsepower but mechanically it was pretty much identical. As before, a three-speed manual was standard. A black-accented grille, SS identification throughout, special suspension, redline tires, and 15-inch wheels were some of the features with the package. The L72 continued to be an option but only 546 were installed among all full-size Chevrolets. After 1969, it could be said the 1970 Monte Carlo SS 454 was the successor to the SS 427.
Out of 2,455 SS 427s built in 1969, it is not known how many were ragtops, but this LeMans Blue 1969 Chevrolet SS 427 convertible features a special twist that makes it much more special and unique: it’s equipped with the standard three-speed manual on the column. Who would order such a powerful engine with such an imprecise mechanism? In a convertible, no less? Unbelievable! Seller claims it was originally sold new in Virginia and went through three owners before moving up to New York several years ago. By then, “the numbers matching engine had already been rebuilt and the top had also been replaced.” The fourth owner installed a factory-correct power steering assembly and in-dash tachometer. Rally wheels are another addition, though the original hubcaps come with the car. “All chrome emblems are in as new condition and both front and rear bumpers have been rechromed.”
If ever there was a “1 of 1” car, it would be this but, without documentation, it would not be right to state such a claim. But if you’re a Chevy guy and get tired of people calling Chevrolets “belly-button cars,” all you have to do is whip this one out and they’ll shut up. It’ll take $59,969 to have that pleasure.
Click here for this ClassicCars.com Pick of the Day.
Source: www.classiccars.com