1965 Chevelle Z16 Big Block Option

In 1965, with the introduction the new lineup of Chevy muscle cars, it was clear that the Chevelle was a packing a major performance punch. The new L79 350hp 327 V-8 had enough power bring a serious challenge to any Ford pony car.  To really play in the big leagues of muscle cars, Chevrolet upped the ante and really made the Chevelle a true Chevy muscle car with the option known as the Regular Production Order (RPO) Z-16, known as the Chevelle Z-16. The Z-16 package equipted the Chevelle with an L37 396 big-block that cranked out 375 hp at 5,600 rpm and 420 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm.

You may have noticed the 396 only boasted 25 more horsepower than the L79 327.  It's rumored the motor was seriously underrated.  Every Z-16 was equipped with a Muncie four-speed, and you had three colors to choose from: tuxedo black, regal red, and crocus yellow; the vinyl top was optional. The Z-16 had special trim and emblems on the rear, and the Malibu SS emblems were moved to the fenders. To strengthen the structural integrity, Chevrolet built the car around a stronger convertible frame with rear reinforcements and two extra body mounts.

Other features included 11-inch drums, power-assisted brakes, front and rear sway bars, and more.  In 1965, the Z-16 was close to being a true production drag car.  Chevrolet never intended on producing mass numbers of the Z-16 option due to limitations (at that time) in producing the volume; they didn't even advertise the option.  Many Z-16s were used as dealership promotional vehicles to develop an image for the Chevelle. However with a car like this, it's hard to keep a secret, and the word got out.  Chevrolet produced 201 Z-16 Chevelles -200 hardtops, and one convertible built for GM executive, Bunkie Knudsen.  Lucky Bunkie!

With about 3,400 lbs. gross, this beast was very fast and even with the conservative 375 hp rating, the power-to-weight ratio was close to 9 lbs per horsepower.  What a surprise on cruise night for the Ford guys!  The seat-of-the-pants feel is visceral when you plant the throttle and it is hard to see the road through first gear because you are pushed back in the seat with such beautiful violence!  A classic Chevy muscle car and just a taste of what was to come later in the decade of the 60’s.