Vehicle Description
The Chevrolet Malibu/Chevelle is certainly a contender for the
world's most popular muscle car, and for good reason. One look at
this 1966 SS tribute hardtop tells you all you need to know about
why they're so beloved: great looks, a wide variety of powerplants
available under the hood, and plenty of room for long-distance
cruising. Add in big block power, a 4-speed, and an awesome color
combination, and you've got a car that hits only high notes.
So it's not a 138 car, who cares? When you're talking about a
design as perfectly proportioned as the early Chevelle hardtop, the
look matters more than the pedigree. The sinister Tuxedo Black
finish on this one seems to amplify its tidy proportions,
stretching it visually over the big wheels and perfect muscle car
stance. Restored several years ago, the prep and body work were
nicely done, and even those massive rear quarters are
arrow-straight and the body is well fitted. Part of the Chevelle's
subtlety is that crease that runs from front to rear, and getting
that right is critical, so I'll just let the photos speak for
themselves in that regard. That gorgeous black finish was clearly
wet sanded and buffed when it was finished, giving it a
distortion-free surface and while it's not perfect, it does the
black paint justice. I also like the stock hood with chrome
inserts, beautifully refinished bumpers, and the overall subtlety
of the look. No need to shout with a car like this.
The mid-1960s were all about simplicity in design, and like the
exterior, the black bucket seat interior is a study in careful
restraint. Forget faux wood, this Chevy uses bright metal trim to
contrast with the black interior, giving the dashboard a jeweled
look that's like a fine clock or vintage stereo gear. The
upholstery was replaced when the car was restored, and has a very
inviting look with no major damage, wear, or other defects.
Instead, all you want to do is slide behind the wheel, listening to
the comfortable groan of the seat as you settle in, and grab that
wonderfully textured steering wheel. The center console is a
welcome option, highlighted by a big chrome shifter for the 4-speed
and an optional clock in its own trick little housing. An
AM/FM/cassette stereo lives in the dash and one glance in the trunk
tells you all you need to know about how well-finished this car
really is. The car is very, very clean.
Performance got a big upgrade as well, thanks to a fresh 396 cubic
inch big block under the hood. Aside from a mildly upgraded cam
inside and an Edelbrock carb, it's pretty stock, so it starts
easily and idles with enough of a lope to let folks know it's no
pushover. Bright chrome on the valve covers and air cleaner shines
against the Chevy Orange engine enamel and satin black engine bay.
Underneath, a fresh clutch and pressure plate feed a Muncie 4-speed
manual transmission and a robust 10-bolt rear, and long tube
headers exhale through a brand new set of Flowmaster mufflers with
turn-downs for just the right sound. The stance is exactly right,
not too low but not like mom's grocery-getter, either, and with
Corvette Rallys and 225/70/15 Uniroyal radials, it looks fast just
sitting still.
This is an extremely nice big block A-body with a manual gearbox
and nice bodywork, all at a very reasonable price. What else do you
need? Call today!