Small block Chevy four speed Chevelle

1964 Chevrolet Chevelle -- Description

The Chevrolet Chevelle is certainly a contender for the world's most popular muscle car, and for good reason. One look at this 1964 Chevrolet Chevelle hardtop tells you all you need to know about why they're so beloved: great looks, a wide variety of powerplants available under the hood, and plenty of room for long-distance cruising. Add in fast small block power, a quick-shifting 4-speed manual transmission, and an awesome color combination, and you've got a car that hits only... high notes. So it's not an SS car, but who cares? When you're talking about a design as perfectly proportioned as the early Chevelle hardtop, the look matters more than the pedigree. The blue finish on this one seems to amplify its tidy proportions, stretching it visually over the big wheels and perfect muscle car stance. Restored several years ago, the prep and body work were nicely done, and even those massive rear quarters are nice and straight and the body is well fitted. Part of the Chevelle's subtlety is that crease that runs from front to rear, and getting that right is critical, so I'll just let the photos speak for themselves in that regard. That shiny blue finish was likely wet sanded and buffed when it was finished, giving it a bright surface and while it's certainly not perfect, it does the blue paint justice, finished to a very presentable driver-quality standard. We also like the stock hood with chrome trim down the center, beautiful bright bumpers, the dual antennas out back, and the overall subtlety of the look, despite the bright finish. No need to shout with a car like this. The mid-1960s were all about simplicity in design, and like the exterior, the black bucket seat interior is a study in careful restraint. Forget faux wood, this Chevy uses bright metal trim to contrast with the black interior, giving the dashboard a jeweled look that's like a fine clock or vintage stereo gear. The upholstery was likely replaced when the car was restored, and has a very inviting look with no damage, wear, or other defects to speak of. Instead, all you want to do is slide behind the comfortable three-spoke wheel, listening to the comfortable groan of the high-back bucket seat as you settle in, and grab that cue ball on the Hurst shifter. The center console is a welcome option, highlighted by the aforementioned 4-speed shifter, and the original gauges in the dash are augmented by a SunPro tachometer mounted on the steering wheel and a triple set of white-face units installed under the dash. An AM/FM/cassette stereo lives in the dash and a glance out back into the spacious trunk reveals a period-correct mat atop the spatter painted finish and a full-size spare. The car is very, very solid. Performance got a nice upgrade as well, thanks to a strong 350 V8 small block under the hood, with the former owner claiming the powertrain to be built and stroked to a healthy 355 cubic inches. Topped with a Quick Fuel 4-barrel carburetor mounted on a Holley Street Dominator intake, it' got plenty of pop, and it starts easily and idles with enough of a lope to let folks know it's no pushover. Bright chrome on the valve covers and open-element air cleaner shines against the Chevy Orange engine enamel and neatly detailed black inner fenders and smoothed blue firewall. Power steering and power brakes enhance the driving experience greatly, and a big aluminum radiator ensures that the block stays nice and cool under any circumstances. The strong small block feeds a quick-shifting 4-speed manual transmission and a robust 10-bolt rear, and long-tube headers exhale through a dual set of Flowmaster-style chambered mufflers for just the right sound. The slightly raked stance is exactly right, not too low but not like mom's grocery-getter, either, and with shiny American Racing wheels and 245/50/16 Cooper radials, it looks fast just sitting still. This is a very nicely restored small block A-body with a manual gearbox and nice bodywork, all at a very reasonable price. What else do you need? Call today!