I know this is a subjective question, but wanted to get some input here. Bought a '70 Chevelle SS a few weeks ago. It's a 396/350 car, and I have a copy of the original build sheet. The 396 is gone, and it now has a 454 in it, but is largely unaltered short of that (has its' original rear and TH400). Factory cowl induction car, with a few neat options. Still the original color, with a driver quality paint job.

Question is this- it's a bench seat, column shift car, and I really don't know if that turns me on. Would be a lot more excited if it was a bench seat 4-speed car. Would you leave the car column shift, or do the typical buckets and console conversion? I already have the bucket seats and console.....

The changes you suggest won't negatively impact the value. Keep the original parts for the car and it can always go back.

You will need to modify or change the steering column and block off the auto transmission selection area at the bottom of the speedometer. You could save some $ if you just do the conversion to auto console, bucket seat.

The car is only original once. Now it is not. If I wanted buckets and a console and 4 speed I would change it. It would also add some value and I think make it easier to sell. Its not just my opion as my car also was a bench seat column shift and I have just about finished the above swap. For me it made my car what I wanted in 70 chevelle and I belive it will be more exciting to drive. I say go for it!:thumbsup:

A non numbers matching car's value is placed on it's Build quality and desirable options/Colors. Not it's originality.

You'll only help the car and need not worry about compromising it's originality as it's already compromised.

Build what you like and make it the nicest car you can.

I really wanted to go with buckets in my elcamino daily driver. After going through the expense of finding a set then redoing them and installing them. Turns out the bench, at least to me, was more comfortable for a daily driver. So we ended up going back to the bench.
The chevelle on the other hand was originally a bucket/console 4speed car. So its back to original. But its more of a weekend toy. I do like the look of a bucket/console interior but the comfort of a bench.
Jim

A non numbers matching car's value is placed on it's Build quality and desirable options/Colors. Not it's originality.

You'll only help the car and need not worry about compromising it's originality as it's already compromised.

Build what you like and make it the nicest car you can.I agree what John Said:yes::thumbsup:

I was at a cruise night on Friday. I saw a nice, clean '65 Malibu hardtop with a '95 LT1 350. Clean installation. While I was looking at it, three guys came along and raved about the swap. A fourth guy came along and thought the car was ruined. Do what suits you. You certainly aren't going to suit everybody out there. Both of our Chevelles are bench seat 4 speed cars. We've had bucket seats in both at one time or another and they are nice and comfortable. The bench seats are comfortable too. Just another avenue to look at.

I'd go with bench seat 4sp ,I like the look of a curved muncie stick and the bench seat.

I'd go with bench seat 4sp ,I like the look of a curved muncie stick and the bench seat.

Same here, that column shift would be history.

Rob

Mac, since it has the build sheet, why not keep it the way GM made it.
If you decide you prefer a car with buckets, console etc, you could trade or sell this one.