‘67 Chevelle vs. ‘70 Chevelle: Which One Is More Preferable?
The Chevelle is one of those favorite American muscle cars. As a matter of fact, it has gained a much-coveted status as a classic American icon for power, design, and impressive performances. If you’re torn between choosing the 1967 and the 1970 Chevelle, then this article will help. The two models are considered the best of the Chevelle series; however, they most definitely do differ from one another. Let’s take a deeper look at features, differences, value, and what truly makes each year stand out.
Features of ‘67 Chevelle and ‘70 Chevelle
A side-by-side of what makes each Chevelle unique gets the discussion going. The 1967 Chevelles and the 1970 Chevelles do take their rightful places as icons; however, they certainly appeal to different breeds of car lovers.
1967 Chevelle
The 1967 Chevelle has that classic muscle car look associated by many with the ’60s. What makes this one unique is the following:
- Compact design: Much more compact and streamlined in appearance, it is far smaller than the later Chevelles but still very powerful.
- Variation in engine: There were several options of engines that came with the ’67 Chevelle, the most popular of them being a 396 cubic inch V8. That gave it loads of power when racing or just running through town.
- Interior style: The inside of the ’67 Chevelle is truly vintage. The inside lacks modern luxuries but is so charming with its simple dash, bucket seats, and classic controls.
- On-road feel: For those sitting behind the wheel, it is indeed a classic American muscle car. The handling is a bit coarse compared to other models released later; for many car enthusiasts, that is part of the fun.
1970 Chevelle
One of the most distinctive aspects of the 1970 Chevelle was some serious power and styling upgrades. What follows are some of the things that made the ’70 Chevelle unique:
- Bold, wide design: More mature, bold, and aggressive in appearance, the 1970 Chevelle displays a wider stance on the road, much more muscular in its build.
- Top engine variants: The 1970 model is fabled for the LS6 454, at that time considered one of the most powerful engines ever built. It reached as high as 450 horsepower, and it was considered among the quickest vehicles in its category.
- Interior comfort: Compared to the ’67, the ’70 Chevelle is just a little bit more refined inside. You can obviously get seats inside, which are way more comfortable and much polished overall.
- Performance: With its newer suspension and handling, the ’70 Chevelle not only looks tougher but also performs loads better too.
Differences Between ‘67 Chevelle and ‘70 Chevelle
Having seen what each model offers, let us break down the key differences between them.
- Design: While the ’67 Chevelle is more compact in design and sleek in its build, the ’70 model is bigger and bolder. If you want a car that would really make heads turn with its wide, aggressive look, it’s got to be the 1970.
- Power: The 1970 Chevelle was quite a lot more powerful in comparison to its predecessor. In particular, an LS6 made it a beast on the road. While the ’67 fitted with a 396 engine was powerful, it did not compare to the ’70.
- Handling: The model of 1970 has done some upgrades in the suspension, and hence its handling is far better compared to the previous models. The 1967 Chevelle car has more of a classic feel in its handling, which people would prefer due to its nostalgic driving experiences.
- Inside: Pretty basic, old-school interior in the ’67 Chevelle. The Chevelle does seem to have gotten a little more civilized inside with the ’70 model, for it had better seats and higher quality in the cabin. Still, nothing like luxury, but a step up from ’67.
- Racing potential: Those who like speed and performance will likely go for the 1970 Chevelle due to the higher range of engine options and racing potential. The 1967 isn’t a slouch, but the ’70 is in another league when it comes to straight power.
Which One Is Worth More?
All these 1967 and 1970 Chevelles are priceless to all collectors; however, as time has passed, there has been much differentiation that has imparted worth into one car against another.
- 1970 Chevelle: This model belongs to the highest prize in categories of muscle cars, even more with its ’70 model with an LS6 engine. Such models fetch highly great prices at auctions if they are in very good condition or restored.
- 1967 Chevelle: The ’67 Chevelle commands its value relatively well, too, especially the SS models with a 396 engine. Although they do not quite reach the same lofty heights as their ’70 brethren, they are nonetheless in high demand with collectors.
Overall, the 1970 Chevelle is often considered to be more valuable; taken as a whole, though, both these models may sell for a high price depending on things like their condition, their rarity, and the options they originally came with.
What Is the Most Desirable Year for the Chevelle?
When discussing muscle cars, the statements as to what is desirable can be very subjective, all things being equal. However, a general rule of thumb hails the 1970 Chevelle as the most desirable of them all from its fans. Why?
- Peak performance: Chevelle reached the high water mark for muscle car performance in 1970. The LS6 454 is the stuff of near-legend, and for very good reason: this is considered the absolute pinnacle year of the muscle car era.
- Iconic design: The 1970 Chevelle shows that wide, bold look that is simply unforgettable. As a matter of fact, this is what most people imagine when they think of a classic muscle car.
- Collector value: As earlier said, this ranks among the most valuable Chevelles you can get—your 1970 Chevelle, especially with the LS6 models. The collectors who know about this model are always on the lookout for a specimen.
However, this does not make the 1967 Chevelle less desirable. Some people favor the ’67 for its more classic, compact look. You may have interest in the early muscle car style with sharp lines and simpler design—the ’67 might be more to your taste.
Which One Should You Choose?
Whom to opt for depends on what exactly one wants in a muscle car. A brief guide to get one through the selection process is hereby presented.
Whom to opt for between the 1967 and the 1970 Chevelle depends on what exactly you want in a muscle car. Here is a quick guide to help you choose:
Go for the 1967 Chevelle if:
- You like more of the classic, compact muscle car design.
- You love the nostalgia of driving an older car.
- You want a more early-day style muscle Chevelle car.
Go for the 1970 Chevelle if:
- You want more power and better performance.
- You want the wider, more aggressive look.
- You want a Chevelle that carries better resale value.
Conclusion
All said and done, both the 1967 and the 1970 Chevelles are iconic vehicles, symbolizing the best in American muscle. For whomever is seeking raw power and an aggressive look, the 1970 Chevelle should be the best choice. But if you like the more classic lines and a bit more compact design, then the 1967 Chevelle may be your ultimate choice. Whether you go with the ’67 or the ’70, both Chevelles are pieces of American car history that any muscle car enthusiast would take pride in owning.