Buzz
©2007 Publications International, Ltd. The 1966 Chevelle underwent a stylish redesign, offering both flair and excitement at an affordable price. Check out more images of classic muscle cars.For 1966, Chevrolet transformed the Super Sport Chevelle into a high-performance muscle car, though the Chevelle SS 396 ended up delivering less in certain aspects despite its upgrades.
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Similar to other GM intermediates, the Chevelle received a fresh exterior design while maintaining nearly the same dimensions. SS versions featured a blackout grille and a redesigned hood with nonfunctional vents. With engines around 400 cid becoming essential in this segment, Chevrolet standardized the 396-cid V-8, ensuring all its midsize muscle cars were branded as Chevelle SS 396s.
Unlike the 375-bhp Z-16 396 introduced mid-1965, the 1966 models featured detuned 396 engines, offering 325 bhp in the base Turbo-Jet version and 360 bhp in the optional L34 variant. Both engines maintained a 10.25:1 compression ratio, but the L34 included a higher-lift cam, a reinforced block, and a larger four-barrel carburetor. Priced at an additional $105, nearly one-third of SS 396 buyers opted for the L34. Despite this, the L34's quarter-mile performance in the mid-15s at around 90 mph was relatively unremarkable.
©2007 Publications International, Ltd. By 1966, all Super Sport models came equipped with a 396-cid V-8, producing either 325 bhp, 360 bhp, or the high-performance 375 bhp variant.Much of the car remained standard, especially when compared to the expensive, limited-edition Z-16. Instead of upgraded brakes and reinforced suspension, the 1966 SS 396 utilized standard Chevelle components. Chevrolet claimed the car had stiffer springs and shocks, though some testers questioned this after experiencing its unpredictable handling and mediocre braking. However, the comfortable seats, manageable engines, sporty design, and a base price of $2,776 made the 1966 SS 396 an excellent choice for everyday driving.
©2007 Publications International, Ltd. The optional bucket-seat interior of the SS 396 included a console with a clock and the additional-cost "knee-knocker" underdash tachometer.Later in the spring, Chevrolet introduced the L78 396. This engine was essentially a modernized Z-16, featuring solid lifters and new exhaust manifolds. It boasted large-valve heads from the 427-cid V-8, 11.0:1 compression, an aluminum intake manifold, and an 800-cfm Holley carburetor. The L78 matched the Z-16's 375-bhp rating, fulfilling the hopes of hardcore Chevy enthusiasts for the 1966 models. Only around 3,100 L78 units were produced. Even the base Chevelle SS had become a true big-block muscle car, with even greater advancements on the horizon.
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Specifications
Wheelbase, inches: 115.0
Weight, lbs: 3375
Number built: 72,300
Base price: $2,776
Top Available Engine
Type: ohv V-8
Displacement, cid: 396
Fuel system: 1 x 4bbl.
Compression ratio: 11.0:1
Horsepower @ rpm: 375 @ 5600
Torque @ rpm: 415 @ 3600
Representative Performance
0-60 mph, sec: 6.0
1/4 mile, sec. @ mph: 14.40 @ 100
