1969 Chevrolet Chevelle
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The 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS396 stands as a pinnacle of the classic American muscle car era. Few cars stood out from the rest like the 1969 L78 SS396 Chevelle, and enthusiasts regard the Chevelle as one of the most iconic muscle cars ever. For 1969 the Chevelle's long-hood, short-deck styling (introduced in 1968) continued, and Chevrolet reintroduced the highest-output 396 cubic-inch engine in its lineup. The SS396 hardtop (and convertible) could be ordered with the legendary L78 option - a 375-horsepower version of the Turbo-Jet 396 - which cemented the Chevelle's reputation for bold styling paired with truly high-end performance. The L78 option was famously elusive and rare. It was never listed in the standard sales brochures, requiring a special dealer order (RPO L78). he L78 option was expensive for its day ($252. 80 in 1969) and delivered an uncompromising 375 horsepower (with 415lb-ft torque at 3,600rpm)Only 9,486 Chevelles were built from the factory with the L78 in 1969. Today the L78 396 is highly prized by collectors for its rarity and historical significance - a verified L78 engine code (as recorded on the L78 registry) is a potent mark of authenticity and investment value. Mechanically, the L78 396 was a...