Pontiac made waves in the 1960s with the introduction of the GTO option for the LeMans in 1964, but it was in 1965 that Chevrolet upped the ante. As a part of the General Motors family, Chevrolet couldn’t stand idly by as Pontiac dominated the muscle car scene.
Leveraging the potent small block from the Corvette, Chevrolet crafted the 1964 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu SS 327/350 by combining a Corvette engine with a Chevelle platform. The Chevelle had already gained popularity since its debut in 1964, with the Super Sport package contributing significantly to its success.
Chevrolet recognized the escalating muscle car competition and seized the opportunity to integrate the powerful 327 cubic-inch V8 into the Chevelle lineup. While not the top-tier L78 variant, the 350-horsepower four-barrel engine, paired with a close-ratio Muncie transmission and Positraction rear, ensured thrilling performance.
Out of over 72,000 SS-badged models produced for the 1965 model year, only 6,021 units were equipped with the formidable L79 V8. Despite one example sitting idle since 1983, enthusiasts started on a restoration journey, addressing minor issues such as a missing carburetor, a seized engine, and locked front brakes.
With meticulous care and attention, the Chevelle was revived, showcasing its originality with a few minor modifications. The restoration journey culminated in the iconic ’65 Chevelle SS roaring back to life, reaffirming its status as a legendary muscle car.