The allure of a barn find often conjures images of rough, non-running classics. However, Rob Feasel’s recent acquisition challenges this perception. After a 13-hour drive from New Egypt, New Jersey, to Traverse City, Michigan, Feasel secured a remarkably original, four-speed 1970 Chevelle SS396 convertible. With just over 53,000 miles on the odometer, this “time capsule” reportedly functions as it did when it first rolled off the assembly line 47 years ago. muscle car and corvette nationals.
Feasel’s lifelong passion for muscle cars, particularly big-block 1970 Chevelles and convertibles, was ignited by his father and uncle. Their influence instilled in him an appreciation for the exhilarating experience of driving powerful machines and the thrill of discovering automotive treasures. This particular Chevelle, a 1970 model in a desirable gold exterior with a black convertible top and interior, represents a significant addition to his collection. He currently owns a documented gold 1970 Chevelle SS396 coupe, making this convertible a perfect complement.
The discovery of this Chevelle was the result of Feasel’s diligent online searching. An early morning internet scan revealed a newly listed 1970 Chevelle SS396 convertible that immediately caught his eye due to its apparent originality in the photographs. He promptly contacted the seller, who confirmed the car had been parked since 1990 in Detroit and had only recently been moved to Traverse City, Michigan. The seller also attested to the car’s excellent running condition. Driven by his enthusiasm and the car’s promising condition, Feasel made the 860-mile journey to purchase it shortly after their conversation.
The Chevelle’s provenance is well-documented. Assembled in Baltimore, Maryland, during the second week of February 1970, it was sold new at Ver Hoven Chevrolet in Detroit. Crucially, the car retains its original assembly build sheet and warranty card, substantiating its authenticity. The build sheet details its original specifications: a convertible model with raised white-letter tires, power folding top, cowl-induction hood, bucket seats, center console, heavy-duty battery, close-ratio manual transmission, and a limited-slip rear axle. american muscle headquarters.
The drivetrain remains original, including the numbers-matching RPO L34 engine, RPO M21 manual transmission, and a 3.31-ratio Positraction rear axle. The odometer displays a documented 53,000 miles. Many original components are still in place, such as the carburetor, power-brake booster, master cylinder, radiator, distributor, engine-cooling fan, fan shroud, and all five original wheels, including the spare.
Chevelle historians estimate that only slightly over 2 percent of the total 1970 Chevelle production were convertibles. With 51,455 units of the 1970 Chevelle SS396 equipped with the base RPO L34 engine, the number of convertible variants is estimated to be around 1,100. Considering the rare Desert Sand exterior color, this particular car could be one of fewer than 100 such models ever produced, making it an exceptionally rare find.
Regarding the future of this remarkable Chevelle, Feasel expresses a sense of awe. “I’ve owned at least 25 Chevelles over the years,” he states, “They ranged from blown big-block race cars to mild small-block cruisers.” The extreme originality of this convertible is almost intimidating. Feasel plans to address minor rust repair in key areas and replace the convertible top, all while preserving the car’s original state as much as possible. His ultimate goal is to simply “drop the top and enjoy it as a time capsule.” best classic cars.
This 1970 Chevelle SS396 convertible stands as a testament to automotive preservation. Its extremely low mileage, original components, and rare color combination make it a significant find for any collector or enthusiast.
What are your thoughts on this incredible barn find? Share your opinions in the comments below!