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Few 1960s and ’70s cars - opens in new window or tab. are as sought after as the Chevrolet Chevelle - opens in new window or tab., particularly in Malibu trim. Their values reflect that desirability. Good examples fetch substantially higher prices than similar cars from other manufacturers. Every once in a while, though, an affordable Chevelle hits the market, like this Gulf Green hardtop recently sold on eBay.
Last of Its Generation
This Malibu comes from the final year of production before a 1973 redesign. That makes this one of the very last produced from the generation most sought after by collectors. The update brought additional emissions equipment and federally mandated bumpers meant to survive a low-speed impact.
The Malibu was repainted in its original Gulf Green. A previous owner showed it before putting it in storage in 2007. The car’s current appearance reflects how it looked when pulled from storage, with some evidence of fading paint and peeling clearcoat.
The under-hood and trunk areas still look freshly restored and remarkably clean. Raised-white-letter tires - opens in new window or tab. on factory Rally wheels - opens in new window or tab. with the correct trim rings and hubcaps complete the period vibe.
Replacement 350
The original 307-cubic-inch V-8 is gone. The slightly massaged 350-cubic-inch V-8 - opens in new window or tab. in its place starts right up and runs well, says the seller. It’s topped by a four-barrel carburetor - opens in new window or tab. with a low-restriction air cleaner - opens in new window or tab. for improved airflow and a custom look. A replacement camshaft - opens in new window or tab. and new dual-exhaust system - opens in new window or tab. add an appealing, lopey rumble.
Recent work in preparation for sale includes:
- Fluid service
Shows Well
The dark green interior shows very well, with no visible tears in the seats, headliner - opens in new window or tab., or dash. The door panels - opens in new window or tab. are in similarly excellent condition. The matching green carpet has some evidence of stains or water damage and needs replacing.
Factory options include power steering and brakes, tinted glass, and an air conditioner that is complete but not functional. Added accessories include supplemental instrumentation mounted under the dash and a Kenwood in-dash AM/FM stereo cassette player - opens in new window or tab..
Good Bones
Built in Baltimore, Md. - opens in new window or tab., the Malibu spent most of its time in North Carolina. It is a largely rust-free car, with just a couple of areas in need of attention, as detailed in the photos. Fortunately, there’s an enormous variety of new, reproduction, and used Malibu parts - opens in new window or tab. available on eBay to address virtually any issue.
This Chevelle is a rolling example of what collectors often describe as having “good bones.” Whatever work it needs will be relatively easy and inexpensive to do. Or, just drive it as-is. Either way, it’s a lot of Malibu for the money,
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.