Chevrolet took the wraps off two more editions of the growing SS family in its current lineup - Impala SS and Monte Carlo SS. The original Super Sport model was the 1961 Impala SS, the name that began Chevrolet's legendary SS bloodline.
Packing 360 hp, heavy duty shocks and springs and a 7,000-rpm tachometer, the 1961 Impala was off to a potent start. The original Monte Carlo SS bowed in 1970 as the SS454 equipment package.
Introduced at the 2003 Chicago Auto Show, the 2004 Impala SS and Monte Carlo SS back up the performance designation with serious engine and suspension hardware. Both vehicles are powered by a 240-horsepower supercharged 3800 V-6 mated to the Hydra-Matic 4T65-E four-speed electronically controlled heavy-duty automatic transmission.
Hardware upgrades include a beefed-up four-wheel independent suspension, high performance speed-rated tires and 17-inch diamond-cut cast aluminum wheels. Bright stainless steel dual exhaust tips, fog lamps, six-gauge cluster including boost gauge and "SS" exterior badging complete the package. Monte Carlo SS will also feature a race-inspired spoiler.
