A heavily modified 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Sport Coupe is attracting attention as it heads toward the closing days of an online auction in Brunswick, Ohio. The car, which blends classic muscle car styling with modern performance upgrades, shows an active bidding history with 18 bids placed and thousands of views as of mid-January. The current high bid stands at $13,750, with the auction scheduled to end Jan. 26.
Originally introduced for the 1968 model year, the second-generation Chevelle marked a significant redesign for Chevrolet’s A-body lineup. The updated platform featured a shorter 112-inch wheelbase, revised suspension geometry, and more aggressive fastback-inspired styling. Buyers could choose from multiple trim levels, but the SS 396 Sport Coupe stood out as the performance flagship, equipped from the factory with a big-block V8 and distinctive visual cues.
This particular example retains its SS 396 identity, confirmed by its chassis number, but has been extensively modernized. Power now comes from a fuel-injected 540-cubic-inch Merlin V8 paired with a three-speed TH-400 automatic transmission. The seller reports the engine was recently dyno tuned and is believed to produce close to 700 horsepower, a substantial increase over any factory configuration offered in 1968.
Supporting upgrades focus on drivability and reliability. The car features a Sniper electronic fuel-injection system, aluminum radiator with dual electric fans, four-wheel disc brakes, and a 12-bolt rear end. A serpentine belt drive, upgraded fuel system components, and aftermarket exhaust further support the high-output drivetrain.
The exterior was refinished in 2025 in Dark Cherry with a Deltron clearcoat, giving the Chevelle a fresh appearance. Large Lexiani wheels, measuring 22 inches front and rear, fill the wheel arches and conceal the upgraded braking system. Inside, the black interior has been updated with TMI bucket seats, digital gauges, a tilt steering column, air conditioning, and a touchscreen stereo.
The car was serviced and prepped for paint in 2024 before undergoing final assembly and tuning in 2025. Known issues include a non-functioning speedometer and odometer, as well as a cracked center console lid. The seller acquired the Chevelle in 2022 and states the vehicle will be delivered with a clean Ohio title once an existing loan is satisfied.
With its mix of classic muscle car heritage and modern performance hardware, this Chevelle represents a contemporary interpretation of one of Chevrolet’s most iconic models as bidding continues toward its January conclusion. See it here.
