Certain words and phrases used within the classic world will almost invariably cause an enthusiast’s blood to boil. Patina is one, as is “ran when parked.” You could probably add “only original once” to the list, but it is also the ideal term to describe this 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396. The only modifications are a couple of reversible interior changes, with the rest of the car unmolested after fifty-three years. The seller plans a repaint if it doesn’t sell, but bidding now would be wise if interested parties wish to protect its survivor status. The SS is listed here on eBay in Ocoee, Florida. Bidding sits below the reserve at $47,000, with the end in sight for this auction.

The muscle car scene was beginning to show signs of winding down by 1970, with manufacturers spending considerable sums on development to adapt their existing powerplants to new emission regulations. The market was not in its death throes, but sales volumes had begun shrinking. It was against this backdrop that our feature car rolled off the line. Its original owner ordered it in stunning Black Cherry with a Black vinyl top. The seller claims the SS had never undergone any form of restoration beyond an occasional touch-up, meaning most of the paint was applied by the good folk at Chevrolet. It continues shining nicely, but a close inspection reveals a significant collection of chips and marks, confirming this classic has never been a trailer queen. The seller plans a repaint if it doesn’t sell, and they will then relist it with a corresponding increase in the reserve. Rust is limited to a tiny section in a lower rear quarter panel, with the rest of the exterior looking excellent. The story below the surface is equally impressive, with the floors showing a couple of light areas of surface corrosion peaking through the original red oxide. The trim and glass would easily pass muster for a driver-grade classic, and the Chevelle rolls on its factory sports wheels.

The defining features of this Chevelle hide under the skin, and they comprise a pretty tasty package. They include a 402ci V8, a four-speed M20 manual transmission, a 12-bolt rear end, the F41 suspension package, and power assistance for the steering and front disc brakes. The big-block is no lightweight, producing 350hp and 415 ft/lbs of torque that launched the car through the ¼-mile in 14.6 seconds on its way to 132mph. Slow? No way! Potential buyers and purists will be pleased to learn that this SS is numbers-matching. The only visible modification is the aftermarket air cleaner, but locating a genuine item should not be difficult. I would describe the presentation as honest because no one has spent hours cleaning everything or drowning the engine bay in gallons of detailing spray. The seller says it runs and drives like a dream, meaning potential buyers should consider it a turnkey proposition.

The first things I noticed inside this Chevelle were the tach mounted on the console and the Clarion radio/cassette player in the dash. The first of that pair would be easy to remove if the new owner craves original presentation, but the Clarion unit will pose a more significant challenge. The installer has cut the dash to fit it, meaning repairs would be required before a factory radio could be bolted back in. Otherwise, the interior is unmolested. The Black vinyl on the driver’s seat exhibits wear and stress, and I doubt an upholsterer could address this. The remaining upholstered surfaces are spotless, as are the dash and pad. The carpet has faded in spots, and a perfectionist may elect to spend $220 on a replacement carpet set. I can’t see any other problems, meaning that if the winning bidder does pursue the restoration path, they won’t need to spend a fortune inside this gem.

This 1970 Chevelle SS 396 offers potential buyers several options to consider. Returning it to a showroom-fresh state would be straightforward due to its lack of rust or significant panel damage. However, it is possible to repair the small spots of existing rust and perform minor touch-ups to preserve its survivor status. Whichever option potential buyers choose, they should probably be prepared to bid beyond $50,000 if they have any chance of becoming the proud new owner. I’m not sure whether I would opt for preservation or restoration, and it will be fascinating to see how the vote splits among our Barn Finds readers. So, over to you.