Introduction - 1971
The 1971 model year saw only minor body changes but did introduce the single headlamp theme to the Chevelle for the first time in the lineup. The SS 396 (RPO Z25) and SS 454 (RPO Z15) performance options were history. In their place was a new SS option (keeping the RPO of Z15) that was morphed into more of a dress-up option rather than a true performance option. The new SS Equipment option could be ordered with any optional V8 engine and any optional transmission. This meant the RPO L65 (350-2) and the RPO L48 (350-4) engines could be ordered with either a Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 or manual 4-speed transmission - no 307 V8 and no Powerglide transmissions. The only 402 cid engine available was the RPO LS3 and the only 454 cid engine available was the RPO LS5. The SS Equipment option could be ordered on any Malibu sport coupe, convertible, or sedan pickup and included power disc/drum brakes; black-finished grille; special domed hood with locking pins; L.H. remote-control mirror; SS emblems on grille, fenders, rear bumper, and steering wheel; sport suspension (RPO F41 on sport coupe or convertible only); 15" x 7" wheels with bright lug nuts; special center caps and trim rings; F60 x 15 white lettered tires and function symbols on instrument panel knobs.
Insurance companies were beginning to catch on to the high performance 'image' of the SS so late in 1971 Chevrolet introduced the "Heavy Chevy" option (RPO YF3) availability on the base 13437 sport coupe. This option included black accented grille; special side striping; Heavy Chevy decals on hood, front fenders/doors/quarter panels, and rear deck; special domed hood with locking pins (same as the basic SS hood); 14" x 6" rally type wheels with bright lug nuts and center caps. Buyer had a choice of either black or white stripes except when vinyl roof, black or white painted roof was ordered. See striping application for more specifics.
The 1971 model year Monte Carlo would be the last year for the Monte Carlo SS option RPO Z20.
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1971 Chevelle Links
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