1 of 3 2005 Callaway-tuned SSR LS2 V8 540hp 6-speed manual A/C

At the turn of the century, Chevrolet, knowing its hardcore fans weren't going to be happy with the inevitable phase out of the F4 Camaro, decided to announce their production-intent Super Sport Roadster. Unfortunately, even though the SSR combined a traditional V8 drivetrain with heritage-inspired goodwill, it met little enthusiasm; even in a market that was experiencing a monumental surge in truck popularity. The problem was that GM billed the truck as a cool replacement for the muscled up Camaro, but it ended up driving like an old school boulevard cruiser. Ultimately, even with the addition of a hotter LS2 V8 and 6-speed manual transmission, the SSR had limited appeal, and only lasted three model years. That said, in the realm of collector cars, those are all good things because they cemented the legacy of one of the coolest and most exclusive modern classics on the market. And when Callaway Cars gets their hands on one, you can rest assured that all the truck's performance shortcomings have been thoroughly addressed! Looking to pick up a fresh, hassle-free hot rod that's got all the right stuff to stand out from the crowd? Here's your future classic!

IT LOOKS THE PART

One of only 3 2005 SSRs modified by Callaway, this razor-sharp Chevy is a low-mileage cruise missile that, in defiance of the famous SSR 'ice cream drop' poster, could probably blow the kid's ice cream right out of its cone! Slingshot Yellow 2-stage remains a glossy and vivid testament to the truck's crisp style and bold character. Those knock-out aesthetics are founded on a solid steel body that's been tastefully modified with factory running boards and one discrete “CALLAWAY” badge. And when that level of cool is combined with Callaway's world class performance, it creates one seriously capable cruiser that'll show with the finest classics and absolutely blister the road!

390 + CALLAWAY = 540

Lift the hood and you'll find a world-class LS2 that utilizes a cast aluminum block, 243 heads and an aggressive cam to turn 10.9 to 1 compression into an impressive 390 horsepower and 405 lb./ft. of torque. That award-winning mill is a thrilling companion for any car guy who has a pulse, and Callaway's numerous tweaks are a constant reminder that it doesn't take much to coax scary power out of Chevrolet's tried and true overhead valve technology. Naturally, a polished supercharger is the engine's biggest visual and auditory attention getter. But there are also other choice upgrades, including a K&N intake and flashy Callaway fuel rail covers that help advertise the truck's substantial 540 horsepower. As you would expect, this SSR's engine is tidy and clean, all the way from its pliable plastic components to its fade-free factory decals. And the best thing is: the spry small block has the mild characteristics and great fuel economy of a stock LS2, so long as you don't engage the supercharger's boost.

CLEAN & CLASSY

For the most part the SSR was always considered a great cruiser, but that doesn't mean this slick roadster isn't any fun on a curvy country road. The truck's wide steel fenders cover a hydroformed steel frame that's been borrowed from Chevrolet's own Trailblazer EXT, thoroughly re-braced and fitted with a short-long-arm front and 5-link rear suspension. At the center of those bones, a tough Tremec T56 6-speed spins a limited-slip differential around stout, 3.73 gears. Turns are achieved through power rack-and-pinion steering. Stops are provided by requisite 4-wheel power disc brakes, which benefit from standard traction control and requisite anti-lock software. And on the outside of those binders, optional chrome wheels spin 295/40R20 Goodyear Eagle RS-As behind 255/45R19 Goodyear Eagle RS-As.

TOP-DOWN FUN

Inside this awesome drop-top you'll find a factory fresh cockpit that displays virtually no wear at all. Heated, power-adjustable seats are supple and supportive. A silver-trimmed dash hangs factory climate control beneath a 6-disc CD changer that powers big Bose speakers. Below that dash, a body-matched console balances a short shifter between factory power windows, factory power door locks and a trio of accessory gauges. In front of the driver, a leather-wrapped steering wheel laps a tilting column. And behind the passengers, an optional windscreen leads an optional carpeted and wood-trimmed cargo hold.

Research this SSR's original MSRP, price out its professionally installed Callaway mods, and then take a look at our asking price. There's absolutely no doubt this Chevy's next happy owner is getting stunning style and amazing performance for an excellent value. And when you factor in exclusivity and mileage, you have a top notch modern classic that's prime for future collectability! If you're looking for a great platform with excellent performance to match its stellar looks, it's time you become the proud owner of this sweet Super Sport Roadster!

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SUMMARY

* 5,382-mile Callaway SSR survivor
* 1 of only 3 2005 Callaway SSRs produced
* 6.0 liter GM LS2 V8 / Polished supercharger / 540 horsepower
* Tremec T56 6-speed manual transmission
* Limited-slip differential / 3.73 gears
* Power rack-and-pinion steering
* 4-wheel power disc brakes
* Factory climate control
* Leather interior
* Optional chrome wheels