Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 Sport Coupe (1968)
ABOUT: The 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 was part of the second generation of Chevelles, which featured a new body style introduced in 1968. This body style continued until 1972, when the Chevelle received another major redesign. So, the 1968 Chevelle SS396 was manufactured with its specific body style for about five years before the next update in 1973.
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Production Total: In 1968, Chevrolet produced a total of 57,785 Chevelle SS396 models. This included 55,309 2-door sport coupes, 2,286 convertibles, and 5,190 2-door sedan pickups.
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Price New: The 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 was not officially sold in the UK, so there isn't a specific price for it in British pounds from that time. However, in the United States, the base price for the SS396 was around **$2,899**. If we consider the exchange rates and inflation, it would have been a significant investment for a car enthusiast in the UK.
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Recorded in UK 2025
The exact number of 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 models currently registered in the UK isn't readily available. However, classic car registries and enthusiasts' clubs often keep track of these rare vehicles. You might want to check out the [Chevelle Stuff](http://chevellestuff.net/1968/style_prod_no.htm) or [Autoevolution](https://www.autoevolution.com/news/rare-1968-chevrolet-chevelle-returns-from-the-uk-with-an-obvious-steering-wheel-surprise-244533.html) for more detailed information.
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PLEASE NOTE: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles
Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.
COMMON FAULTS
The 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396, like many classic cars, has its share of common faults. Here are some issues that owners have reported:
1. **Overheating**: Some 396 Big Block engines are known to run hot and may never reach normal operating temperatures.
2. **Electrical Problems**: Owners often face electrical gremlins, such as issues with the starter solenoid and wiring.
3. **Rust**: Rust is a common problem, especially around the bottom corners of the rear window.
4. **Hot Engine Restarts**: Big block engines can suffer from heat soak, making it difficult to restart the engine when it's hot.
If you're considering purchasing a 1968 Chevelle SS396, it's essential to have a thorough inspection done by a specialist who is familiar with these classic muscle cars. This can help identify any potential issues before they become major problems.
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Generations/Trim Levels
PLEASE NOTE: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries
Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.
The Chevrolet Chevelle was produced in three generations from 1964 to 1977. Here's a breakdown of the generations and some of the notable trim levels:
### First Generation (1964-1967)
- **Chevelle 300**: The base model with minimal features.
- **Chevelle Malibu**: A more upscale version with additional features.
- **Chevelle Malibu SS**: The Super Sport version with performance upgrades.
### Second Generation (1968-1972)
- **Chevelle 300 Deluxe**: The entry-level model.
- **Chevelle Malibu**: The mid-range model with more features.
- **Chevelle SS396**: The high-performance Super Sport model with a 396 cubic inch V8 engine.
### Third Generation (1973-1977)
- **Chevelle Deluxe**: The base model.
- **Chevelle Malibu**: The mid-range model.
- **Chevelle Laguna**: A more luxurious version introduced in 1973.
- **Chevelle SS**: The Super Sport model, which continued to offer high-performance options.
The Chevelle was available in various body styles, including coupes, sedans, convertibles, and station wagons - autoevolution](https://www.autoevolution.com/chevrolet/chevelle/).
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Engines
The 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 came with several engine options, each offering different power outputs:
1. **396 cubic inch (6.5 L) V8**:
- **325 bhp (242 kW)** at 4800 rpm
- **350 bhp (261 kW)** at 5200 rpm
- **375 bhp (280 kW)** at 5600 rpm
2. **327 cubic inch (5.4 L) V8**:
- **250 bhp (186 kW)** at 4800 rpm
- **275 bhp (205 kW)** at 4800 rpm
3. **307 cubic inch (5.0 L) V8**:
- **200 bhp (149 kW)** at 4600 rpm
4. **250 cubic inch (4.1 L) inline-six**:
- **155 bhp (116 kW)** at 4200 rpm
5. **230 cubic inch (3.8 L) inline-six**:
- **140 bhp (104 kW)** at 4400 rpm
These engines provided a range of performance options, making the Chevelle SS396 a versatile and powerful muscle car.
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Performance
The 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 offered impressive performance across its various engine options. Here's a breakdown of the expected performance for each version:
1. **396 cubic inch (6.5 L) V8**:
- **325 bhp (242 kW)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 7.0 seconds, quarter-mile in around 15.0 seconds.
- **350 bhp (261 kW)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 6.5 seconds, quarter-mile in around 14.5 seconds.
- **375 bhp (280 kW)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 6.0 seconds, quarter-mile in around 14.0 seconds.
2. **327 cubic inch (5.4 L) V8**:
- **250 bhp (186 kW)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 8.0 seconds, quarter-mile in around 16.0 seconds.
- **275 bhp (205 kW)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 7.5 seconds, quarter-mile in around 15.5 seconds.
3. **307 cubic inch (5.0 L) V8**:
- **200 bhp (149 kW)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 9.0 seconds, quarter-mile in around 17.0 seconds.
4. **250 cubic inch (4.1 L) inline-six**:
- **155 bhp (116 kW)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 11.0 seconds, quarter-mile in around 19.0 seconds.
5. **230 cubic inch (3.8 L) inline-six**:
- **140 bhp (104 kW)**: 0-60 mph in approximately 12.0 seconds, quarter-mile in around 20.0 seconds.
These performance figures made the Chevelle SS396 a formidable muscle car in its time, offering a range of options to suit different driving preferences and budgets.
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Designer/Dimensions
The 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 was designed by **Chevrolet's in-house design team**. The team was led by **Bill Mitchell**, who was the Vice President of Design at General Motors at the time. Mitchell was known for his work on many iconic GM cars, including the Chevrolet Corvette and the Camaro.
The 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 had the following dimensions:
- **Wheelbase**: 112.0 inches (2,845 mm)
- **Overall Length**: 197.1 inches (5,007 mm)
- **Overall Width**: 75.7 inches (1,923 mm)
- **Height**: 52.7 inches (1,339 mm)
- **Curb Weight**: Approximately 3,510 lbs (1,592 kg)
These dimensions contributed to its muscular and aggressive stance, making it a classic American muscle car icon.
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Spares/Specialists NI
For locating spare parts for the 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 in the UK and Ireland, you can check out the following sources:
1. [SS396.com](https://www.ss396.com/): They offer a wide range of restoration parts for the Chevelle SS396.
2. [Customville American](https://customville-american.co.uk/chevelle-parts/): They specialize in both modern and classic American car parts, including the Chevelle SS396.
As for garage services in Northern Ireland, there are several options available:
1. [Commons Brae Garage](https://bing.com/search?q=garage+services+Northern+Ireland): Located at 188 Saintfield Road, Belfast.
2. [RS Garage Services](https://www.facebook.com/RSGARAGESERVICES/): Located at 99 Tullyraine Road, Donacloney, Banbridge.
3. [McCormick's Garage](https://www.mccormicksgarage.co.uk/): Located at Unit 1, Glenford Way, Newtownards.
4. [A29 Garage Services](https://a29garageservices.co.uk/): Located at 42 Dungannon Road, Cookstown.
These resources should help you keep your Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 in top condition.
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Racing
The 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 did compete in racing, particularly in drag racing events. It was a popular choice among drag racers due to its powerful engine options and solid performance. The Chevelle SS396 was often seen at drag strips, where it competed in various classes, including Stock and Super Stock.
The car's performance and reliability made it a favorite among racers, and it achieved notable success in drag racing competitions. However, it was not as widely recognized in other forms of motorsport, such as road racing or endurance racing.
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Valuation
The value of a 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 in the UK can vary depending on its condition, history, and originality. Recent listings show prices ranging from **£32,000 to £67,000**. Exceptional examples with well-documented histories and in pristine condition can fetch even higher prices.
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