The 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS 454 is one of the most overlooked muscle cars of its era, probably because it occupies a different segment than the Chevelle and Camaro.

The Monte Carlo was positioned as a personal luxury car — slightly more refined, slightly larger, aimed at buyers who wanted performance without the raw feel of a dedicated muscle car. The SS package with the 454 offered similar performance to the Chevelle SS but in a more comfortable package.

The rarity of the SS 454 option — approximately 3,800 units — combined with the general neglect of the Monte Carlo in the collector market creates an opportunity. The cars are excellent and the values haven't caught up with the performance hardware.