Used Truck Profile: Chevrolet S-10 SS

The Chevrolet S-Series may be gone, but it certainly hasn’t been forgotten. Even though production in North America ended in 2004 (and production in Brazil ended in 2012), the series still lives on in the Chevrolet Colorado, which shares the S-10 name.

When searching for used Chevy trucks, buyers often have  two options. They can choose a truck with a large truck bed, but that usually compromises handling. If the buyer wants sedan-like handling and fuel efficiency, then they’d often have to compromise the size of their vehicle. One of the highest performers in that S-10, compact pickup truck series included both of those options, and that was the Chevrolet S-10 SS.

Designed as a more powerful, two-wheel drive version of the S-10, the S-10 SS was originally introduced in 1994. The vehicle was ultimately discontinued in 1998 (and replaced by the S-10 Xtreme in 1999), but it still managed to make a mark during it’s brief, four-year tenure.

Considered one of the best S10 trucks, the standard 4.3-liter V6 engine (which, in other cars, was an optional upgrade) produced between 180 and 200 horsepower. The truck itself was rather innovative for it’s time, as it featured the ZQ8 Sport Suspension package (including Bilstein shocks and large stabilizing bars), 16-inch wheels (including the five-spoke, polish aluminum, ZQ8 rims) and a 4L60 automatic transmission (or, if you preferred, a manual transmission).

Like many cars from the 90s, the S-10 SS was only available in three colors: onyx black, summit white and apple red.

Unfortunately, fewer than 3000 of the SS’s were produced yearly, so trying to find one of these legends isn’t easy. A message board posting from 2004 advertised a 1998 SS for only $7,000… but the car had approximately 108,000 miles on it (no word on whether it was sold).

If you’re planning on searching for a used SS, beware of fakes. Sellers will try to pass off other S-10s, particularly the LS, so make sure you know what to look for. The 4.3-liter engine is essential, but if you’re unsure what you should be focusing on, do yourself a favor and run the VIN number.

While DePaula Chevy in Albany, NY doesn’t currently have a used SS on their lot (and let’s be honest… who does?), the staff will be more than happy to hook you up with a similar vehicle. If you’re lucky, they may even be able to point you in the direction of an available SS!