Chevrolet Chevelle

The Chevelle was one of the most successful models GM ever built. Created in 1964 as a direct competitor for Ford's Fairlane, the Chevelle continues to be popular today. The Malibu was the top trim level available for the Chevelle, and was used as a substitute for the Chevelle name in 1978. The Chevelle became Chevrolet's most popular muscle car when the SS line was debuted; the car's low price and variety of engine choices contributed to its popularity as well. The biggest engine ever available in a Chevelle was 1970's LS6, 454-cubic inch monster.

1964's Chevelle was grossly underpowered, at 300 hp with a 327 V8 under the hood. Later that year, Pontiac debuted its GTO, with a beefier 389 CI engine, meaning that Chevrolet had to hurry to keep pace. The 327 base motor was boosted to 350 hp, and there was also a limited-supply 396 engine package. The 396 package came with a stiffer frame, roll bars and better suspension to go along with its 375 horsepower. The Chevelle 396 was a good competitor in the muscle car wars, but it was rare- only 201 were built.

In 1966, the SS was renamed the SS396 as a representation of its base motor. Technically it was the start of a new model line, with a new roof slope, nonfunctional hood scoops, and a new bumper. The 396 was still available, but midyear the new L78 motor was released. There weren't many changes made for the 1967 model year, and the L78 was dropped from the factory options. A three-speed automatic transmission was added as an option.

In 1968, the Chevelle underwent some design changes- the wheelbase was shortened, the hood lengthened, and the car gained a "fastback" rear end. There were two versions of the 396 motor and the L78 was a factory option once more. For 1969, the 396 was available on any Chevelle; it was later that year bored out to a 402. There was a limited-release COPO 427; 323 were built without badging designating the more powerful motor. The 1970 Chevelle was the most powerful ever, at 454 cubic inches. The hood of that year's model had a cowl induction option as well.

However, the death knell for muscle car performance had already sounded, and in 1971 the Chevelle's stats dropped significantly because of more stringent emissions standards and higher insurance costs. The last year for the Chevelle name was 1977, and the model continued under the Malibu name until 1983.