Revell 1/25 1967 Chevelle SS 396

The Chevrolet Chevelle is a mid-sized automobile produced by the Chevrolet division of General Motors in three generations for the 1964 through 1977 model years. Part of the GM A-Body platform, the Chevelle was one of Chevrolet's most successful nameplates. Body styles include coupes, sedans, convertibles and station wagons. Super Sport versions were produced through the 1973 model year, and Lagunas from 1973 through 1976. After a three year absence, the El Camino was reintroduced as part of the new Chevelle lineup. The Chevelle also provided the platform for the Monte Carlo introduced in 1970. The Malibu, the top of the line model through 1972, replaced the Chevelle nameplate for the redesigned, downsized 1978 models.

1966 saw a complete restyle of the Chevelle on the previous frame that included smooth contours, a broad new grille and bumper treatment, and curved side windows. Bulging rear fender lines and a "flying buttress" roofline (tunneled into the "C" pillar) were highlights of the '66 hardtops, shared with other GM "A" body models. The new body reflected the "Coke bottle" body shape that became the fad for American cars in the mid-1960s. A hardtop-styled Sport Sedan joined the Malibu series. Chevelles continued in 300, 300 Deluxe, and Malibu trim. Available engines were a 327-cubic-inch V-8 instead of either of the sixes, or the mid-level option, a 220-horsepower 283-cubic-inch V-8. Judicious attention to the options list could add a tachometer, mag-style wheel covers, and sintered-metallic brakes.

The 1967 models got some styling tweaks that resulted in a longer, more straightforward appearance. Large taillamps went into a new rear end with standard backup lights. Otherwise, visible change was modest. "What you'll see inside," claimed the sales brochure for the 1967 Chevelle, "will probably bring on a severe compulsion to go driving." Front disc brakes were available on all models, and a new dual master cylinder brake system incorporated a warning light. An entire host of new safety equipment became standard, including a collapsible steering column making the 1967 models safer cars. The SS396 continued as the only Super Sport model, in both Sport Coupe and Convertible body styles. The 375-horsepower 396-cubic-inch V-8 officially departed from the options list however 612 were still built. Buyers selected from no less than six transmissions: two three-speeds, four-speed, overdrive, and two automatics. The manual-shift feature of the Turbo Hydra-Matic transmission was touted in advertising. Options included Superlift air shock absorbers, Strato-ease headrests, and special instrumentation. Although Chevy's big news for 1967 was the introduction of the Camaro, Chevelle offered a more traditional sort of sportiness.

Originally released in 1989/1990 it has been a while since we've seen this so Chevy fans can add another nice Chevelle kit to their stash. Molded in white plastic with three sprues of chrome bits and one of clear, this is definitely not a curb side model. The 396 cubic inch engine is nicely molded with chrome valve covers, a single four barrel carb and stock headers. The interior is pretty standard stuff with separate inner door panels fitting into the usual tub. A center console, 'bucket' seats and a rear bench are part and parcel of the kit. Clear bits are installed from the inside on this with separate windscreen, rear window, and vent windows.

The kit comes with a separate chassis assembly and separate exhaust system with mufflers. The kit allows a 'custom' option, which is basically decals and those 'bling' wheels with very low profile tires. Not my first choice, but many modelers like them so they are included. The chrome is quite well done and I saw no evidence of flaking, something one can see with poorly done chrome bit. The kit includes most of the chrome trim as separate items, and this includes the bit attached to the front of the hood and the lower rocker panels. Decals take care of the name plates, badges and the blacked out rear section one found on the SS 396 version. As mentioned, the only real difference with the custom version is decals and wheels. The kit comes with a good sized decal sheet to incorporate the flames and a selection of new and old license plates as well as disc rotor detail. Instructions are well done and provide clear construction steps.

Revell has always produced quality US car kits and we now have a '67 Chevelle to add to the growing list of what is available to us. I'm still thinking the price is too high, but I live in the 60s and am sad these are not still $1.49! I'm sure you will be pleased with this one.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Chevelle

February7 2011

As usual, you can thank me for picking this one up. One of these days I'll surprise everyone by actually building one!

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