1966 Chevrolet Chevelle – ZZ 427-Powered Cruiser with Vintage Soul and Muscle Might
The year 1966 marked a pivotal point for the Chevrolet Chevelle — the second year of its second generation — as the American muscle car era hit its stride. Sleek new styling combined with aggressive performance options helped the Chevelle become a standout among GM’s A-body lineup. The available SS 396 package was all the rage at the time, but modern restorations have taken these classics to even greater performance heights. Few examples embody that evolution better than this immaculately built Marina Blue 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle, fitted with a ZZ 427 GM Crate engine and an enthusiast-favorite Tremec 5-speed.
This stunning Chevelle pays homage to its factory roots while elevating every mechanical aspect to modern standards. Still wearing its original color code “F” Marina Blue — beautifully repainted to a high shine — the car sits confidently on 15-inch American Racing Torque Thrust D wheels wrapped in fresh BF Goodrich Radial T/A tires (235/60 front, 255/60 rear, all date-coded 2024). The body is a testament to solid craftsmanship, with original metal throughout and a rock-solid undercarriage — a testament to its preservation and careful upgrades over the decades.
Under the hood roars a ZZ 427 GM Crate V8 — a high-performance powerhouse featuring GM aluminum heads and intake, a Holley 4-barrel carburetor, HEI ignition, ceramic-coated headers, and a dual exhaust system with aftermarket mufflers and full tailpipes. With an engine casting number of 19165955 and a 12-bolt rear end delivering the power, this Chevelle is far from ordinary. Enhancing its street credibility, the engine is paired with a Tremec 5-speed manual transmission — a significant upgrade that ensures this Chevelle is as thrilling on the highway as it is at idle.
Handling is equally impressive thanks to Hotchkis front and rear sway bars, aftermarket tubular lower rear control arms, boxed upper rear control arms, and a polyurethane transmission bushing for added durability. CPP front disc brakes and power steering provide confident control at any speed, while an aluminum radiator with an electric fan keeps the big-block cool even during summer cruises.
Inside, the black bench seat interior (code “761”) maintains a vintage aesthetic while incorporating thoughtful enhancements. A split front bench and floor-mounted 5-speed shifter give the cockpit a purposeful feel. Vintage Air A/C blows cold, keeping occupants comfortable even on the hottest Texas days. Manual windows, manual locks, and a retro-style AM/FM radio round out the classic interior experience, while subtle touches like the aftermarket power antenna nod to the car’s carefully considered upgrades.
Odometer reads just 2,902 miles, and while actual mileage cannot be verified, the condition and presentation speak volumes. The cabin features newer fine-weave carpet, solid door panels, and a dash that presents well despite its age. Even the glove box’s absence doesn’t distract from the Chevelle’s driver-centric focus — it's clear this machine was built to be driven and enjoyed.
From the growl of its ZZ 427 to the comfort of Vintage Air conditioning, this 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle delivers the best of both worlds — raw muscle with refined details. It's a time capsule that honors its heritage while embracing the capabilities of modern performance components.
PC Classic Cars in Sherman, Texas is proud to be the steward of such remarkable classics. Our team is passionate about preserving automotive history and helping enthusiasts connect with their dream vehicles. With an eye for quality and a commitment to excellence, we make sure every classic we handle is something special.
Do you have a classic Chevelle, Camaro, or other vintage muscle car you'd like to sell? PC Classic Cars is always looking to buy high-quality classic and collector vehicles. Whether it’s fully restored or a survivor, contact us today to turn your cherished ride into the next great find for another enthusiast.