What does SS mean on a car?
Chevrolet’s hallmark performance option package, known as Super Sport, or SS, is available on a select few of its cars. Every SS model has recognizable “SS” marks on the outside.
The 1961 Impala was the first vehicle to offer the SS package. The Camaro, Chevelle, El Camino, Impala, Monte Carlo, Nova, and Chevrolet Pickup Truck are a few additional models with the SS moniker. GM Performance Division produces the current SS models.
Among the many types of automobiles produced by General Motors, the term “Chevrolet SS” is frequently used to refer to that particular car model. The car stands out from other vehicle models thanks to its special features that set it apart.
When the 1961 Impala was originally made available, the Chevrolet SS was considered one of GM’s most stunning new models. After that, more SS model cars continued to be produced until the car type was discontinued and Holden, a General Motors subsidiary in Australia, was shut down.
What does SS mean on a Car?
The abbreviation “SS” stands for “Super Sport.” This is a significant distinctive performance package produced by General Motors and typically found with the Chevrolet. Chevrolet Impala (built in 1961), Nova, Camino, Camaro, Monte Carlo, Chevelle, and the Chevrolet truck are a few examples of Super Sports automobiles.
Holden, a division of General Motors, marketed the Chevrolet SS in Australia. [1] In addition, they provided SS variants for the Holden Commodore and a variety of sports wagons. From 1978 to 2017, the vehicles were made in Australia, while from 1979 to 1990, they were made in New Zealand [2].
The Chevrolet Impala was the first Super Sport vehicle. The replacement of the original 3.5 Liter V6 engine with a 5.3 Liter V8 engine improved it over the original. In addition, the V8 engine’s higher power output compared to the V6 engine allowed the car to accelerate significantly more quickly.
On October 20, 2017, local SS vehicle production was stopped in Australia. After that, Holden’s brand and nameplate were discontinued in 2020, which also happened to be the year that the Commodore’s sales were eliminated [3].
The “SS” is a unique designation for the General Motors Chevrolet car model with the highest performance package. It provides excellent power and efficiency, precisely as those who were brand fans enjoyed it.
The supercharger in the car makes it possible for more oxygen to be released during each engine’s intake cycle, increasing the amount of gasoline burned and the engine’s output. As a result, the power surge offers the same level of strength as a cheetah’s speed. The Camaro SS and Sedan, two examples of Chevrolet Super Sport vehicles, are insanely supercharged with tremendous power for acceleration [4].
Chevrolet SS Models
When the SS emblem was first made available on the Impala in 1961 for just $53.80, America got its first glimpse of it. At the time, the package included firmer shocks, power brakes, interior and exterior SS trim, and a few other improvements.
Even though there were only 453 SS Impalas produced, the 1957 Corvette Super Sport prototype may be the rarest of all SS models. It received the first-ever fuel-injected Corvette engine as well as a special VIN number. This innovative hot rod was equipped with a close-ratio three-speed transmission and a 283/283 small-block engine [5].
As power variants of Chevy sedans, SS models would continue to gain popularity during the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. By the 1990s, Chevrolet had also launched SS versions of the pickup trucks.
The package adds SS emblems, performance brakes and suspension, whitewall tires, and a 7,000 rpm tachometer, among other improvements. Unfortunately, only 453 of the 491,000 Impalas built in 1961 came with the SS option.
The List of SS Cars:
- Chevrolet Commodore SS
- Chevrolet Cobalt SS
- Chevrolet HHR SS
- Chevrolet Impala SS
- Chevrolet Malibu SS
- Chevrolet Camaro SS
- Chevrolet El Camino SS
- Chevrolet II Nova SS
- Chevrolet Nova SS
- Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS
The List of SS Trucks:
- Chevrolet 454 SS
- Chevrolet S10 SS
- Chevrolet SSR SS
- Chevrolet Silverado SS
- Chevrolet TrailBlazer SS
SS on the Global Market
- Due to widespread demand for these fast automobiles, domestic SS models spread worldwide.
- In addition to the regular cars, particular market-specific SS vehicles were produced. There were several new ones among them, albeit occasionally. They were simply the domestic model rebranded [6].
- For the Middle Eastern market, Chevrolet rebadged the Impala SS and Holden Caprice as the Caprice SS.
- The Chevrolet Lumina SS, a Holden Monaro rebadged for the Middle Eastern market.
- Chevrolet Opala SS, an Opel Rekord and Commodore clone made specifically for the Brazilian market.
- The Chevrolet Astra, Corsa, and Meriva SS are copies of identical Opel models designed specifically for the Brazilian market.
- The Chevrolet Captiva SS, designed specifically for the Indonesian market.
Holden SS
Holden, an Australian automaker division of General Motors, mostly sells rebadged GM automobiles in Australia. Many of the company’s SS models, among its most well-known vehicles, are based on the Commodore and the Holden Ute [7].
Current SS Models
The Camaro SS is the only SS model still in production today. Still, even that model’s future is in doubt because Chevrolet intends to phase out the iconic muscle car in favor of an electric vehicle. Uncertainty surrounds whether or not they’ll keep the SS moniker, but the new model won’t accurately represent what a true Super Sport automobile should be like.
How to Tell If a Car Is a True SS
The SS package is where one should look to see if a car is a real SS model. Most Super Sport models have a more potent engine, custom exterior and interior trim, a more durable suspension, high-performance brakes, and distinctive rims and tires [8]. You can find out if your car is a true SS or not. You may tell by the steps listed below:
Step 1:Look for SS Markers
Supersport automobiles typically have a lot of distinctive features. Some include stronger suspension, better braking systems, powerful engines, unique wheels and tires, larger motors, and remarkable interior and exterior trim packages.
The SS logo, which ought to be on both the inside and exterior of the dashboard, is also on Super Sport variants.
In addition to the instruments already listed, SS cars may occasionally have others that distinguish them from standard models, such as a tachometer.
Step 2: Examine the Engine Number
SS automobiles typically feature an engine that sets them apart from standard variants. To see if the number on your engine corresponds to other SS models, check it out and ask a parts dealer or repair.
An automobile’s engine, particularly an older model, may have been changed at some point, so this advice isn’t the “end all be all.”
Step 3: Look for the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
The identifying number of a vehicle can provide you with all the information you require about the vehicle. You’ll discover the car’s year, model, make, engine, manufacturer, and many other details [9].
You should be able to obtain free information about your car’s history by simply entering the number into a search engine for vehicle identification numbers. You can use this to determine whether your automobile is a genuine SS or not.
Step 4: Locate the Trim Tag
There should be a trim tag inside the driver-side door. More details about the car’s original setup and trim package can be found on trim designations.
Step 5: Look for the Build Package
A build sheet will be in the back seat if one is there. However, the construction sheet probably won’t be present if you have an older or antique automobile, so it’s still worth looking for.
The build sheet will list the components that went into the vehicle during construction. Mirror kind, engine size, transmission type, and color codes are just a few items listed on the page.
How Does a Car Become an SS?
A car becomes an SS when it has a specific set of features. These qualities will vary based on the manufacturer and model, but one thing is constant. An SS will always be superior to a standard model. Everyone who enjoys cars may agree with that.
It’s also acceptable to argue that an automobile becomes a true SS if it has the SS package.
A stronger suspension, distinctive trim packages, a new and improved engine, a unique appearance, customized wheels and tires, and an enhanced braking system.
Difference between a Muscle Car and an SS
Since several Chevrolet SS models are, in fact, muscle cars, the SS emblem is frequently associated with them.
An SS car, however, can be anything from a little hatchback to a truck. Still, muscle cars are often 2-door coupes and convertibles with high-output engines, preferably a V8, the difference being pretty obvious.
Do SS Cars Have V8 Engines?
The V8 engine is unnecessary for a car to have an SS package installed. Some vehicles bearing the SS moniker lack a V8, including the Cobalt, the HRR, and even some vintage 1960s models.
Why did Chevrolet discontinue the SS?
Because there was little demand from the general public, the Chevrolet SS was terminated at the end of 2017 [10]. In addition, fewer cars were sold than were produced because people thought they were excessively pricey.
Because the business was losing money and had tried fruitlessly to increase sales, the decision to terminate was reached.
Are Chevrolet SS cars supercharged?
Chevrolet’s SS Sedan has a supercharger option. The LSA Supercharger allows the car to generate roughly 650 horsepower while running. To ensure your automobile can be supercharged, it would be a good idea to speak with your mechanic.
Why is the Chevrolet SS considered a rare car?
Due to its limited availability and annual release, Chevrolet SS automobiles are regarded as rare.
Over the car’s final four years, just 3,000 units were sold annually due to a lack of consumer interest, primarily brought on by practicality concerns and a lack of advertising from Chevrolet.
What makes the Chevrolet Camaro an SS?
The improved engine is the primary feature of the Chevrolet Camaro SS. The company’s original offering was the 350 cubic inch engine with 295 horsepower, but the huge 396 Mk IV block with 325 horsepower was soon added.
How fast does a Chevrolet SS go?
Chevrolet claims that the SS can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than five seconds. Additionally, the vehicle can go a quarter-mile at a speed of 109 mph in around 13 seconds.
Will the Chevrolet SS hold its value over time?
The Chevrolet SS is anticipated to keep its market value exceptionally well over the following few years due to the car’s rarity.
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Conclusion
SuperSport is indicated on cars by the letter SS. It is a moniker frequently applied to General Motors’ high-performance vehicles, most notably Chevrolet vehicles. Common characteristics of SS models include a potent engine, improved suspension and brakes, and distinctive external and interior elements.
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