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1970 Chevelle SS Packs Original Big Block Plus Five-Speed: Video

It’s one thing to overhaul a beat-up old muscle car from the ground-up to create a shiny new restomod, but it’s something else entirely to modify only select bits and pieces to keep the old-school charm intact, while still enhancing the fun factor. That’s where this 1970 Chevelle SS comes in, packing a numbers-matching 396 Big Block V8 that’s been upgraded to produce 500 horsepower – LS swap need not apply. Now, we’re getting an eyeful with the following video feature.

The front end of a 1970 Chevelle SS restomod.

Once again coming to us from the folks at AutotopiaLA, the owner of this particular 1970 Chevy, Fernando, sold his highly modified twin-turbo build for a more original car, acquiring this numbers-matching Chevelle SS in the process. The car was purchased with its factory build sheet and window sticker, and retains much of its original charm, including the 396 big block engine, but with a few key upgrades that enhance both performance and drivability.

The 396 remains largely untouched, maintaining its classic appeal, plus a handful of modern tweaks, including a new cam, lifters, and a Holley mid-mount kit. The modifications give the Chevelle roughly 500 ponies while staying true to its muscle car heritage. Fernando also made significant updates to the car’s suspension system, with the original frame outfitted with Global West control arms and coilovers, and there’s a little extra beefiness for the factory 12-bolt rear end as well.

Other notable enhancements include a Hydro Boost brake system with Wilwood six-piston brakes up front and four-piston in the rear. There’s also a Tremec TKX 600 five-speed transmission, which makes for a nice cruiser on the highway.

While the car now boasts modern performance features, Fernando made sure to maintain that classic aesthetic. The original Chevelle SS ivory interior has been preserved, with the addition of sleek Dakota Digital gauges providing a subtle nod to modern tech. The exterior however, was repainted from green to a new orange with white racing stripes. A set of 18-inch Rueda Forged Wheels spins in the corners. Never mind the custom plate – it’s a carryover from the owner’s previous twin-turbo build.

Check out the full build, plus some driving action, right here:

Jonathan is an automotive journalist based out of Southern California. He loves anything and everything on four wheels.

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  1. Davy E. Ginn

    What a waste of an original car with documentation. JMO.

    Reply

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