2003 Chevrolet SSR

The end of the 20th century saw auto industry stylists looking in the rear view mirror for inspiration. Among retro offerings were BMW's 2001 remake of the MIni Cooper, Volkswagen's 1997 New Beetle, and Chrysler's 2001 -30s-look- PT Cruiser. GM joined the party in 2003 with the Chevrolet SSR or Super Sport Roadster, a vehicle said to be inspired by the brand's 1947 pickup truck but with the functionality and appeal of a two-seat drop-top roadster. Unlike the other above-named retro offerings, which were small machines propelled by modest four-cylinder engines, the SSR was a sizeable vehicle powered by a 300-horsepower Chevrolet V8. While it never achieved sales success in its day, it's now finding new life as a collectible. This 2003 Chevrolet SSR, which the owner says was produced early in the model run, has reportedly seen only 4,344 miles of use.- it has always been garaged and never driven in rain or snow. Like every 2003 SSR, this vehicle is powered by Chevrolet's 5.3-liter LS V8. Generating 300 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 331 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm when new, the engine is said to be original and has not been rebuilt. - that the engine starts quickly and does not produce smoke. A four-speed automatic transmission provides gear changes, with fourth gear being an overdrive ratio. The vehicle is rear-wheel drive, with torque delivered to the pavement by a limited-slip differential with a 3.73:1 ratio. According to documents provided , the vehicle is finished in Redline Red. The seller maintains that the paint is original and is free of swirls and body blemishes. The power-retractable hardtop convertible roof is finished in body color and is said to function as intended and without leaks. The rear hard cargo cover is body color and removable. The carpeted cargo compartment is trimmed with wood and, is very clean.- there is no rust to be seen on the vehicle. - The interior upholstery of this two-seater is described by Chevrolet as Ebony in color with leather seating surfaces.- that all interior upholstery is in excellent condition, as is the carpeting and interior trim. All dashboard gauges are functional. The power door- and cargo-cover locks, power seats, and power windows are reportedly in working order, as is the Bose stereo sound system.- that the air conditioning and heating work, as does the cruise control. The vehicle was delivered with dual-stage front air bags and side-impact air bags. - The Chevrolet SSR rides on a double-wishbone independent front suspension and a five-link rear suspension. Front and rear stabilizer bars are fitted. The power steering has a 16:1 ratio and reportedly works well. The original cast aluminum wheels are reportedly not pitted and show no curb rash. The original Goodyear Eagle RS-A tires are fitted, and according to the owner have -most tread remaining.- Front tires are size P255/45R-19, and the rears are P295/40-R20; though date codes are not seen, these should be replaced due to age before the car is driven any distance. The four-wheel antilock disc brakes are said to work well. The owner's manual, the Monroney sticker that was affixed to the vehicle's window when new, and a car cover are included. This 2003 Chevrolet SSR offers a look back in automotive history with the power, convenience, and road manners of today's vehicles. That's entertainment.