My car is definitely Canadian. I also know that it is not the original engine(probably a '66 - had that old cannister type oil filter) & tranny. I ordered a copy of the build sheet from GM Canada. My intention is to now restore it as close to original as possible, it'll obviously never be a numbers matching car. What needs to be done to make it as valuable as possible. Do I look for a 1970 engine & tranny? Does this matter at this point? Thanks for all the help everyone!!

You might get some different answers on this. My personal opinion is there would really be no apparent increase in value by switching from the 66 engine to a 70. Either way it's not the original engine. Having said that, some potential future buyer may prefer to at least have a 70 engine in it.

Just my two cents worth.

I'd agree with Don, either it is or isn't. And if you're doing this to make money, this must be your first :D

Don't even waste your time and money looking for the "correct" motor..you can change over the canister filter to a spin on filter,and maybe get the correct,low rise cast iron intake and some exhaust manifolds..thats where I'd stop..jmho and experience.Make it look "correct"

FYI - I'm not looking to make money. My goal is just to restore it to original condition. I will keep this car, I've have owned it for 20 years but have been out of the musclecar scene for the last 15. I really appreciate everyone's input. I only want to maximize it's value for my own satisfaction. 2 more questions:
1) Are the Canadian SS's worth more?
2) Generally, how much less is a non #'s matching car worth(in terms of a percentage)
Thanks, Ray

Ray,

To answer your most recent questions:

1. A Canadian SS is not worth any more than a well documented non-Canadian SS. In general, what makes the Canadian cars more desirable is that they are all documentable. This is not the case with the non-Canadian cars.

2. Speaking in very general terms, and given a documented SS car (Canadian or not), having a non-original engine and transmission might reduce the perceived value by 10 to 20 percent. There are going to be some people to whom it would make no difference, and some others who would not want the car at all with a non-original drivetrain, but for general market value I think 10% - 20% is a good guess.

I think if I were you, I would enjoy the car as it is, but keep my eye open for the 'right' engine & trans. As long as you're not in a hurry, one will pop up some time smile.gif