The 1968 Chevy SS represents the pinnacle of American muscle car philosophy, a moment where raw power, aggressive styling, and accessible performance converged on the production line. This specific model year marked a critical transition for the Super Sport package, moving from the iconic Impala chassis to the new body design of the Camaro and Nova. For enthusiasts, the name evokes images of quarter-mile passes, rumble seats, and the sheer thrill of a factory-built machine designed for the asphalt.
The Birth of the 1968 Model Year
1968 was a year of significant change for General Motors. While the full-size Impala continued its legacy, the automotive landscape shifted toward mid-size performance. The introduction of the Camaro in September 1966 for the 1967 model year created a new platform for the SS badge, one that was more agile and driver-focused than its full-size predecessors. Concurrently, the Chevrolet Nova received the SS treatment, offering a potent blend of compact size and big-car power. This duality defined the year, giving buyers two distinct philosophies of performance in the SS lineup.
Design and Styling Cues
Visually, the 1968 Chevy SS cars are unmistakable. The Camaro SS featured a distinctive front grille, often finished in a unique color, paired with hidden headlights that gave it a sleek, aggressive prow. The signature SS stripes were not mere decals; they were sculpted into the sheet metal, flowing from the front fenders to the rear quarter panels. On the Nova SS, the design language was more about function, with bold "SS" emblems, blackout hoods, and distinctive wheel covers that screamed performance intent. The overall stance was lower and wider, commanding attention on any street.
Performance Specifications and Engine Options
Under the hood, the 1968 SS offered a range of terrifyingly powerful options. The Camaro SS could be equipped with the legendary 327 cubic-inch V8, but the true head-turner was the 396 cubic-inch big-block, producing 375 horsepower in its standard configuration. For those seeking more, the L78 option provided an underrated 390 horsepower, a number that was often conservatively rated. The Nova SS similarly benefited from these engines, with the 327 and 350 cubic-inch V8s providing ample power for a car of its size. This combination of displacement and output placed the 1968 SS firmly in the realm of serious performance machines.
Interior and Driver Experience
Inside, the 1968 Chevy SS was a study in driver-focused ergonomics. The Camaro SS featured bucket seats with a center console, a sporty steering wheel, and a dash dominated by large, easy-to-read gauges. The Nova SS, while utilitarian, offered a similar level of equipment focused on the driving experience. Bucket seats, a three-spoke steering wheel, and a tachometer were standard fare, creating a cockpit that felt purpose-built for spirited driving. The roar of the engine through the relatively thin cabin walls was not a flaw; it was a feature, constantly reminding the driver of the power on tap.
Collector Value and Modern Relevance
Today, the 1968 Chevy SS is a highly sought-after collector's item, with values varying significantly based on originality, condition, and specific model. A numbers-matching Camaro SS 396 can command six-figure prices at auction, while a well-preserved Nova SS represents a more accessible entry point into the world of classic muscle. These cars are valued not just for their performance credentials, but for their historical significance. They represent the end of an era of unfettered horsepower and the beginning of stricter emissions and safety regulations. Owning one is about preserving a tangible piece of American automotive history.
