Follow this link here on Team Chevelle to an article that will tell you how to ID the SS series cars:

http://www.chevelles.com/forums/showthread.php?t=181589

Dan

 

The "W" code only applies to 1972. Beginning in 1972 the engine size was noted in the VIN with a letter. If there is the letter "W" in the VIN it indicates a 454 engine and the 454 could only be had with the SS option.

Aside from the 1972 "W" coded VIN, one needs paperwork such as the original build sheet, original window sticker, or some other form of paperwork showing the SS option AND the VIN.

Remember too that beginning in 1971 the SS option was a dress-up option and not a performance option. Any optional V8 could be ordered with the SS option, 350-2, 350-4, 402-4, or 454-4. The 350-2, 350-4, and 402-4 could also be ordered without the SS option so something like the warranty card protect-o-plate (POP) or matching number engine cannot be used as 'proof positive' as it could be in 1969 & 1970 when the 396 or 454 was part of the SS option(s) - unless the 71 has a valid POP or matching number engine and it's a 454; the 454 in 1971 also required the SS option but was not noted in the VIN like it was in 1972.

 

The "W" code only applies to 1972. Beginning in 1972 the engine size was noted in the VIN with a letter. If there is the letter "W" in the VIN it indicates a 454 engine and the 454 could only be had with the SS option.

Aside from the 1972 "W" coded VIN, one needs paperwork such as the original build sheet, original window sticker, or some other form of paperwork showing the SS option AND the VIN.

Remember too that beginning in 1971 the SS option was a dress-up option and not a performance option. Any optional V8 could be ordered with the SS option, 350-2, 350-4, 402-4, or 454-4. The 350-2, 350-4, and 402-4 could also be ordered without the SS option so something like the warranty card protect-o-plate (POP) or matching number engine cannot be used as 'proof positive' as it could be in 1969 & 1970 when the 396 or 454 was part of the SS option(s) - unless the 71 has a valid POP or matching number engine and it's a 454; the 454 in 1971 also required the SS option but was not noted in the VIN like it was in 1972.

Totally new to this forums stuff so cut me some slack if you don't mind. I'm looking to purchasing a 72 Chevelle SS and was wondering if there are any particular things that i should look for to make sure the car is ok. I read here that there is no real way of knowing if its a real SS or NOT?? If so does that affect the price at all? All i know is that it has all the SS badges and cowl hood. Anyone care to help me out?

Bottom line, you need a build sheet or some dealer paperwork showing the SS option and the associated VIN. The one exception is if there is a "W" as the engine code in the VIN then it was ordered with the LS5 454 engine and that engine could only be ordered with the SS option.

As far a affecting the price, that's for you and the seller to decide. Quality being equal, I'd say a DOCUMENTED, SS optioned Malibu will command more money than one that isn't documented.

I wouldn't fall for "that's what the person I bought it from told me" excuse either. Just because they may have been taken, no reason you should follow suit.

If one claims it's a true SS it's up to the seller to prove it is, it's not up to a buyer to prove it isn't.

 

see my sig 'showroom' pics to see the 'W' vin on my car,buildsheet also.:thumbsup:

 

Totally new to this forums stuff so cut me some slack if you don't mind. I'm looking to purchasing a 72 Chevelle SS and was wondering if there are any particular things that i should look for to make sure the car is ok. I read here that there is no real way of knowing if its a real SS or NOT?? If so does that affect the price at all? All i know is that it has all the SS badges and cowl hood. Anyone care to help me out?

 

Thank you for your reply! i appreciate it.