1968 Chevelle SS: A Powerhouse Owned by John Rohrbacher

The 1968 Chevelle SS is a car that holds a special place in American muscle car history. Known for its impressive speed, robust design, and raw power, this car continues to be a favorite among car enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into a specific 1968 Chevelle SS owned by John Rohrbacher from Minneapolis, Minnesota. This particular Chevelle stands out not only for its striking Deep Purple paint and black interior but also for its powerful upgrades, including a 468 big block engine, 456 gears, 692 Lift cam, and a roll cage set up for racing. It delivers 696 horsepower and can run a 9.8-second quarter mile, making it a force to be reckoned with on the track.

The History of the 1968 Chevelle SS

Chevrolet’s Entry into the Muscle Car Race

The Chevrolet Chevelle was introduced in 1964 as a mid-sized car. By 1968, Chevrolet had perfected the design, producing one of the most iconic muscle cars of its time. The Chevelle SS (Super Sport) was a top-tier performance model that quickly became known for its speed and power. While other Chevelle models were more geared toward everyday driving, the SS variant was built with performance in mind, making it a standout on the streets and racetracks.

The 1968 Model Year

The 1968 Chevelle SS came with a new body style that was more curvaceous than the previous models. However, John Rohrbacher’s Deep Purple Chevelle has taken performance to the next level with significant upgrades.

Design and Exterior Features

Deep Purple Paint and Black Interior

The Deep Purple paint job on John Rohrbacher’s Chevelle SS is a showstopper. This rich color gives the car a bold and distinctive look. It’s not a common color for Chevelles, which adds to the uniqueness of this particular vehicle. The black interior provides a striking contrast against the vibrant exterior, making it look sleek and aggressive. The combination of these two colors enhances the car’s overall appeal, drawing attention wherever it goes.

Body Style and Stance

The 1968 Chevelle SS is known for its muscular stance. The car has a long, low profile that screams performance. The front end is highlighted by its dual headlights and the signature SS grille, while the rear features a wide, solid bumper and distinctive tail lights. The body design of the 1968 Chevelle SS gives it a menacing look, hinting at the power that lies beneath the hood.

Tubed and Ready for Racing

One of the major modifications to John’s Chevelle is that it’s half backed and tubed, making it ideal for racing.

Engine and Performance

468 Big Block Engine

The heart of John Rohrbacher’s 1968 Chevelle SS is the monstrous 468-cubic-inch big block engine.

692 Lift Cam and 696 Horsepower

This Chevelle SS is equipped with a 692 Lift cam, a crucial component that contributes to the car’s high horsepower output. The camshaft controls the timing and lift of the engine’s valves, and the 692 Lift cam is specifically designed for high-performance engines. Combined with the other engine modifications, this setup delivers an incredible 696 horsepower, providing the Chevelle with the power to launch off the line and roar down the quarter-mile.

456 Gears for Acceleration

In addition to the engine modifications, the 456 gears in the Chevelle help improve acceleration. These gears are perfect for drag racing, as they allow the car to reach its peak power quickly. The shorter gearing ratio of 456 ensures that the Chevelle can get off the line fast, giving it an advantage in short, straight-line races.

Drag Racing Setup: Ready for the Quarter Mile

Roll Cage for Safety and Performance

John Rohrbacher’s Chevelle SS is set up for drag racing, with a roll cage installed for both safety and structural integrity.

Quarter Mile Performance: 9.8 Seconds

With all of these upgrades, John’s 1968 Chevelle SS can complete a quarter mile in just 9.8 seconds. This time is incredibly fast for a street-legal car, putting it in the realm of professional drag racing vehicles. The combination of the 468 big block engine, 456 gears, and lightweight, tubed chassis makes this Chevelle a true speed machine.

Interior Features: Black and Bold

Classic Muscle Car Interior

While the exterior and performance aspects of John Rohrbacher’s 1968 Chevelle SS are undoubtedly impressive, the interior is just as captivating. The black interior is clean, simple, and purposeful. The bucket seats provide plenty of support during hard acceleration, while the minimalist dashboard keeps things straightforward. The Chevelle SS interior was designed for function over flash, and this car stays true to that philosophy.

Gauges and Controls

The dashboard is equipped with essential gauges that allow John to monitor the car’s vital functions, such as engine temperature, oil pressure, and RPMs. These gauges are critical when running a high-performance machine like this Chevelle. The simplicity of the controls means that everything is within easy reach, allowing the driver to stay focused on the road (or track) ahead.

The Legacy of the 1968 Chevelle SS

A Staple in Muscle Car Culture

The 1968 Chevelle SS is a staple in muscle car culture. It represents an era when American automakers were pushing the limits of performance and design. The Chevelle SS was one of the cars that helped define the muscle car movement, with its aggressive styling and powerful engine options. Today, it remains a favorite among collectors and car enthusiasts who appreciate its timeless appeal and performance capabilities.

Chevelle SS in Popular Culture

The Chevelle SS has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and magazines over the years, cementing its status as a true American icon. Whether it’s being restored to original condition or heavily modified like John Rohrbacher’s car, the Chevelle SS continues to capture the imagination of car lovers everywhere.

John Rohrbacher’s Chevelle SS: A One-of-a-Kind Build

Dedication to Perfection

John Rohrbacher’s Deep Purple 1968 Chevelle SS isn’t just another muscle car. It’s a labor of love, a testament to his dedication to performance and style. The extensive modifications made to this car, from the 468 big block engine to the roll cage, show that John is serious about making this car one of the fastest Chevelles around.

A Car for the Drag Strip and the Streets

Despite being set up for drag racing, John’s Chevelle is still street legal. This makes it a versatile vehicle that can be driven on the road or taken to the track for a quarter-mile run. The ability to switch between these two worlds is part of what makes this car so special.

Conclusion

The 1968 Chevelle SS owned by John Rohrbacher is more than just a muscle car—it’s a high-performance machine built for speed and power. With its Deep Purple paint, black interior, 468 big block engine, 456 gears, and 696 horsepower, this car is ready to take on any challenge. The upgrades, including the roll cage and tubed chassis, make it perfect for drag racing, yet it retains the ability to be driven on the streets.

John’s Chevelle is a shining example of what can be achieved with dedication, passion, and a love for muscle cars. Whether it’s at a car show or on the drag strip, this 1968 Chevelle SS will always stand out as one of the greats. With its ability to run a 9.8-second quarter mile, it’s a true powerhouse that continues to uphold the legacy of the Chevelle SS.