Let's dive deep into the iconic 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS! If you're a muscle car enthusiast, you already know the '68 Chevelle SS holds a special place in automotive history. This car isn't just a vehicle; it's a symbol of power, style, and the golden age of American muscle. We're going to break down everything you need to know about its specs, performance, and what made it such a game-changer.

Engine Options: The Heart of the Beast

The 1968 Chevelle SS came with several engine options, each offering a different level of performance. The most popular and sought-after was the 396 cubic inch (6.5L) Big-Block V8. But hey, it wasn't just one version of the 396! Chevrolet offered different horsepower ratings to cater to various tastes and performance needs.

396 Cubic Inch V8 - 325 Horsepower

This was the base engine for the SS, and don't let the word "base" fool you. It still packed a serious punch. With a quadrajet carburetor and a respectable compression ratio, this engine delivered plenty of grunt for street and strip. Guys, imagine cruising down the road, the rumble of the V8 echoing around you. This engine provided a great balance of power and reliability, making it a popular choice for many buyers. The 325 horsepower version was perfect for those who wanted the SS look and feel without going overboard on the performance. It was a sweet spot that offered a thrilling driving experience without sacrificing everyday usability. Plus, maintaining this engine was relatively straightforward, which is always a bonus. Whether you were hitting the local cruise night or just enjoying a weekend drive, this engine had you covered.

396 Cubic Inch V8 - 350 Horsepower

Stepping up a notch, we have the 350 horsepower version of the 396. This engine featured a more aggressive camshaft and a few other tweaks to squeeze out some extra power. It was for those who wanted a bit more excitement without jumping to the top-tier option. The 350 horsepower variant offered a noticeable increase in acceleration and overall performance. You could feel the difference when you put your foot down, and it made the Chevelle SS even more fun to drive. This engine was a great option for those who wanted a bit more muscle without sacrificing too much in terms of fuel economy or reliability. It was still very streetable, but it had that extra edge that made it stand out. Picture yourself at a stoplight, ready to unleash that extra horsepower – it was a feeling like no other!

396 Cubic Inch V8 - 375 Horsepower

Now we're talking! The top-dog 396 engine option delivered a whopping 375 horsepower. This was the engine for serious performance enthusiasts. With a higher compression ratio, a more aggressive camshaft, and other performance upgrades, this engine transformed the Chevelle SS into a true beast. The 375 horsepower version was not for the faint of heart. It offered incredible acceleration and a thrilling driving experience. This engine was designed for those who wanted to dominate the streets and the drag strip. It was the ultimate expression of muscle car performance in 1968. Maintaining this engine required a bit more attention, but the reward was well worth it. Imagine the feeling of raw power as you stomped on the gas, the engine roaring to life, and the world blurring around you. That was the experience of the 375 horsepower 396!

Transmission Options: Putting the Power to the Ground

The 1968 Chevelle SS wasn't just about raw horsepower; it was also about how that power was delivered to the wheels. Chevrolet offered a few different transmission options to suit various driving styles and preferences.

Muncie 4-Speed Manual Transmission

For the purists out there, the Muncie 4-speed manual transmission was the way to go. This transmission offered precise, engaging shifts and allowed drivers to truly connect with the car. The Muncie was known for its robust construction and ability to handle serious power. It was the transmission of choice for those who wanted the ultimate control over their driving experience. Shifting through the gears of a Muncie 4-speed was an art form, and mastering it was a badge of honor. The feeling of perfectly executing a downshift and hearing the engine roar was simply exhilarating. Plus, the Muncie added to the overall visceral experience of driving a classic muscle car. It was a mechanical connection that modern cars simply can't replicate.

Turbo Hydramatic 400 Automatic Transmission

If you preferred a more relaxed driving experience, the Turbo Hydramatic 400 automatic transmission was a great option. This transmission was known for its smooth, reliable shifts and ability to handle high horsepower. The Turbo Hydramatic 400 was a popular choice for those who wanted a balance of performance and convenience. It allowed you to enjoy the power of the Chevelle SS without having to worry about shifting gears manually. This transmission was especially appealing for those who used their Chevelle as a daily driver. It made navigating traffic much easier, and it still provided plenty of performance when you needed it. The Turbo Hydramatic 400 was a testament to Chevrolet's ability to blend performance and practicality in the 1960s.

Exterior and Interior Features: Style and Comfort

The 1968 Chevelle SS wasn't just about performance; it also boasted a distinctive style and a comfortable interior. The exterior design was aggressive and muscular, with clean lines and a bold stance.

Exterior Styling

The 1968 Chevelle SS featured a unique grille, a blacked-out rear panel, and distinctive SS badging. These visual cues set it apart from the standard Chevelle and let everyone know that this was something special. The overall design was a perfect blend of sportiness and sophistication. The chrome accents added a touch of elegance, while the muscular curves hinted at the power within. The '68 Chevelle SS was a head-turner, plain and simple. People couldn't help but stop and admire its classic lines and aggressive stance. It was a design that stood the test of time and continued to captivate enthusiasts today.

Interior Appointments

Inside, the Chevelle SS offered a comfortable and functional interior. Features like bucket seats, a center console, and a sporty steering wheel added to the driving experience. The interior was designed to be both stylish and practical. The gauges were easy to read, and the controls were within easy reach. The seats were comfortable enough for long drives, and the overall layout was driver-focused. While it wasn't a luxury car, the Chevelle SS offered a level of comfort and convenience that was impressive for its time. It was a place where you could feel at home while still enjoying the thrill of driving a high-performance muscle car.

Performance Specs: Numbers That Matter

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. What kind of performance numbers are we talking about for the 1968 Chevelle SS? Keep in mind that these numbers can vary depending on the engine, transmission, and rear-end gear ratio.

Acceleration

A well-tuned 396 Chevelle SS could run the quarter-mile in the low 14-second range, with some even dipping into the high 13s. That was seriously impressive for the time. The acceleration was brutal, pinning you back in your seat as the engine roared to life. The 0-60 mph times were equally impressive, typically in the 6-7 second range. These numbers made the Chevelle SS a formidable competitor on the street and the strip. It was a car that demanded respect and rewarded skilled drivers with exhilarating performance. The feeling of launching a '68 Chevelle SS and feeling the raw power of the engine was something that enthusiasts still craved today.

Handling

While the Chevelle SS wasn't designed to be a sports car, it handled surprisingly well for its size and weight. The suspension was tuned for performance, and the car felt relatively stable in the corners. Of course, it wasn't as nimble as a smaller, lighter car, but it was still a blast to drive on winding roads. The handling was predictable and responsive, allowing drivers to feel confident behind the wheel. The steering was precise, and the brakes were adequate for the car's performance. While it wasn't going to win any autocross competitions, the Chevelle SS was still a capable performer in the handling department. It was a car that could hold its own on the street and provide a thrilling driving experience.

Collectibility and Value: A Timeless Classic

The 1968 Chevelle SS is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts today. Its iconic status, powerful performance, and beautiful styling make it a true classic. The value of a '68 Chevelle SS can vary greatly depending on its condition, originality, and engine option.

Factors Affecting Value

Original, numbers-matching cars in excellent condition command the highest prices. Restored cars can also be valuable, especially if the restoration was done to a high standard. Cars with the 396/375 engine are generally worth more than those with the lower horsepower options. The rarity of certain options and colors can also affect the value. For example, a '68 Chevelle SS with a rare color combination or a unique factory option can be worth significantly more than a more common example. It's always a good idea to do your research and consult with experts before buying or selling a '68 Chevelle SS.

Investing in a Classic

If you're considering investing in a classic muscle car, the 1968 Chevelle SS is a great choice. Its value has steadily increased over the years, and it's likely to continue to appreciate in the future. However, it's important to remember that owning a classic car comes with its own set of challenges. Maintenance and repairs can be expensive, and it can be difficult to find parts for older cars. But for many enthusiasts, the rewards of owning a classic muscle car far outweigh the challenges. It's a chance to own a piece of automotive history and experience the thrill of driving a true legend.

Conclusion: The Legacy Lives On

The 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS is more than just a car; it's a legend. Its powerful engines, muscular styling, and timeless appeal have made it an icon of the muscle car era. Whether you're a collector, an enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates great cars, the '68 Chevelle SS is sure to impress. Its legacy lives on, inspiring new generations of car lovers and reminding us of a time when American muscle ruled the streets. So, the next time you see a '68 Chevelle SS, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and its power. It's a true classic that will never go out of style.