1st Gen Chevrolet Chevelle Facts, Information & History

« Chevrolet « Chevelle

The first generation of the Chevrolet Chevelle was produced from 1964 to 1967. It was introduced as a mid-size car, positioned between the compact Chevy II and the full-size Chevrolet Impala, and became one of Chevrolet's most successful nameplates during the muscle car era.

The 1964 Chevelle debuted as a lineup of practical family cars available in various body styles, including sedans, coupes, convertibles, and station wagons. The base engine options were inline-six cylinders and small-block V8s, offering a good balance of fuel efficiency and performance.

In 1965, the Chevelle received minor styling updates, and a Z16 SS model was introduced, equipped with a potent 396 cubic-inch big-block V8 engine, making it one of the first muscle cars on the market.

The 1966 model year brought more significant restyling to the Chevelle, with a sleeker and more refined appearance. The SS 396 option was expanded to include various performance packages, further solidifying the Chevelle's position as a muscle car contender.

In 1967, the Chevelle underwent another redesign, receiving a more squared-off front end and revised rear styling. The SS 396 model became a separate series, known as the SS 396 Chevelle, which offered several performance-oriented packages, including the legendary L78 396 engine with 375 horsepower.

The first generation of the Chevy Chevelle set the stage for the model's future success, combining practicality, performance, and a variety of options that catered to different customer preferences. It remains a popular choice among collectors and enthusiasts, appreciated for its role in the golden age of American muscle cars.