Many owners of the Chevy Chevelle idolize it. Numerous others look at the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 as the leading muscle car manufactured that year. Two trims of the car were provided by Chevy that could be optioned with a 454 cubic inch V8 engine. The LS5 produced 360 horsepower and the LS6 smashed 450 horsepower. That kind of power earned the Chevelle SS LS6 the moniker “King of the Streets.”
The more dominant LS6 featured a Holley four-barrel carburetor and put the Chevrolet Chevelle SS LS6 on the map. Some think that considering its power and the time when it was built, that it's the most commanding muscle car ever manufactured. Let's dig into the details of this wildly powerful muscle car and see what ultimately makes it a landmark in history.
1970 Chevelle Engine specification
The SS LS6 Chevelle featured one of the most powerful engines at the time. With 450 horsepower and 500lbs of torque, it was a beast in the 1970s. The power output was catalyzed by a 4.25 by 4.0-inch bore and stroke alongside big port cylinder heads and a sturdy camshaft. The aluminum pistons and bolt mains further improved resilience and contributed to its excellent performing capability. All these features combined gave rise to the robust output showcased in the Chevelle. Similar specs are still fairly acceptable to date, and this must have been exemplary at the time.
The Interior and Exterior of the LS6
The Chevelle sported a unique exterior with a sleek design. The general concept was a remodeled version of the older Chevelle that featured a newer bulging fender that gave it a more beastly look. A front grille was also a new inclusion from older versions of Chevelles that elevated the 1970 LS6 variant's sports design. Other notable features included an upgrade to dual bumpers, modified headlights, and a rubber pad between the tail lights with the car's signature SS logo.
A lot of thought was put into making this whip, which showcased a bespoke exterior that complemented its spectacular performance on the track. It was designed with a predominantly black interior with optional comfortable bucket type seating with a center console. A stunning SS dashboard and emblazoned steering wheel were included in the vehicle" interior. The designs were simple but carefully built to last and still turn heads when the Chevelle sped past. It was a careful balance between what a typical race pedigree car would look like and a timeless, classy vehicle to suit all needs.
Marketplace Value and Scarcity of the Chevelle SS 454
The Chevelle was a treasured car then and still is now. It is a rare find and would take more than a few hours or, at possibly, a few days on the online market to find a good one. It still retains excellent market value and can attract high bids online. Car collectors treasure unique finds and the Chevelle is no exception. Its reputation from way back as King of the Streets is its most significant selling point for lovers of speed and drag race enthusiasts. As a result, it is a scarce car to come across, as their owners hold them dear to their hearts as proper collector's items with great value and a good performance reputation.
Does the Chevrolet Chevelle SS LS6 deserve the nickname ‘’King of the Streets?’’
The Chevelle SS LS6 is quite deserving of its title as King of the Streets. Loosely translated, this defines a performing car that shines in the face of competitors. The same is true of the base Chevelle, which rose to recognition due to its aggressive performance on the tracks, making its way to CNN's ranking as one of the top 10 muscle cars of its time. Its engine contributes significantly to all the glory as does its steering factor that supports all its abilities.
The powerful engine, which some like to highlight that its V8 specification was not universally accepted to meet proper V8 standards, still propelled it to great functionality, with impressive acceleration that made it a beast of a drag racer. It would go from 0 to 60 in slightly over 6 seconds, quite mind-blowing, and sent shockwaves through the racing world.