The Chevrolet Chevelle was a mid-size car built by Chevrolet (a division of General Motors) from 1964 to 1977. It used the GM A-body platform and became one of Chevrolet’s best-selling and most recognized nameplates.
The Chevelle was offered in a wide range of body styles. These included two-door coupes, four-door sedans, convertibles, station wagons, and the utility pickups. The Chevelle filled the gap between the smaller Chevy II and the full-size Impala.
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1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS Specifications
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 155 hp I6, 307 V8, 350 V8, 402 V8, 454 V8 |
| Top Performance Engine | 454 cu in (7.4L) LS6 V8 |
| LS6 Horsepower | 450 hp @ 5600 rpm |
| LS6 Torque | 500 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm |
| Transmission Options | 3-speed manual, 4-speed manual, automatic |
| Body Styles | Coupe, sedan, convertible, wagon, El Camino |
| Layout | Front-engine, rear-wheel drive (FR) |
| Platform | GM A-body |
| Production Years | 1964–1977 |
| 1970 Special Features | Cowl induction hood, SS badging, sport wheels |
Super Sport Models: SS 396 and SS 454
In 1970, Chevrolet offered two high-performance SS (Super Sport) packages for the Chevelle:
- SS 396 (RPO Z25): Although labeled “396,” this version actually had a 402 cubic inch (6.6L) V8 engine due to a bore increase. It produced up to 375 horsepower in cowl induction form and included performance suspension, sport wheels, and SS trim.
- SS 454 (RPO Z15): This package introduced the massive 454 cubic inch (7.4L) V8 engine. The base LS5 version made 360 horsepower. The top-end LS6 engine produced a staggering 450 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful engines of the muscle car era.
In 1970, only 4,475 LS6 Chevelles were built. This make them rare and highly collectible today.
The Return of the El Camino
After a brief break, the El Camino returned in 1964 as part of the new Chevelle lineup. It blended the utility of a pickup with the performance and style of a car. Built on the same chassis, the El Camino shared many parts with the Chevelle and offered the same engines and trim levels. It continued as part of the Chevelle line through the mid-1970s.
Canadian Market: The Beaumont
From 1964 to 1969, GM of Canada sold a version of the Chevelle called the Beaumont. While based on the Chevelle platform, the Beaumont had a unique Pontiac-style grille and a LeMans dashboard. This version gave Canadian buyers a slightly different option while still offering the same performance.
Malibu Rebrand
Until 1972, the Malibu served as the top trim level of the Chevelle lineup. It included upgraded interior materials, exterior trim, and more standard features. In 1978, Chevrolet dropped the Chevelle name completely. The Malibu name continued on its own as a new, smaller model based on the GM G-body platform.
1970 Redesign and Model Updates
Only the coupe, sedan, and convertible received the updated body panels. The wagons and El Camino models continued using the older body style for another two years. New options for 1970 included power door locks and a stalk-mounted wiper control.
The 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS is one of the most iconic American muscle cars ever built. The LS6 version, in particular, set a new benchmark for performance during the golden era of muscle cars.
