1964 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu

Description

Clean summer drivers don't get much better than this 1964 Chevy Malibu SS convertible. With a 283 cubic inch small block, it's plenty entertaining to drive, while the classic Ember Red flanks look great hammering down the highway. And yes, it's a real code 58 SS V8 convertible.

Chevy positioned the Malibu/Chevelle as a car that could do anything. With a wide variety of engines, transmissions, body styles, and options, it could be anything from an economical commuter to a scary fast track terror. The original color was called code 922 Ember Red, and the current finish does a pretty good job of replicating that original look, although the finish is starting to show its age. With handsome styling and tidy proportions, this car has always been in fashion and in demand. A simple full-width front grille emphasizes the car's basic integrity, and has been nicely preserved. Chrome on both bumpers is very good, and the stainless sure looks like well-maintained original stuff. No modifications, no shaved emblems, just classic OEM looks that make this one of the most popular body styles of the mid-60s. It's very usable just the way it sits with no show car fussiness that makes you worry every time you walk away from it.

Like the body, the interior appears to have been restored as needed, and today combines original and new components. Dressed in classic code 729 Ivory with red carpets and trim, its simple, elegant design shows you Chevy was aiming high in '64. With a trio of round gauges, and simple high-mounted controls for things like the lights and wipers, it's easy to get comfortable behind the two-tone wheel. The seats are in good shape and the carpets are very good, thanks to a set of heavy-duty carpeted floor mats. There's also a factory center console to brighten things up, and the shifter is connected to a 4-speed manual gearbox, so it's a ton of fun to drive. A nice-fitting white power convertible top folds easily and there's a new windshield up front. The very clean trunk has correct spatter finish paint as well as a proper mat and full-sized spare tire with jack assembly.

Under the hood there's a smooth-running 283 cubic inch V8 that doesn't deviate too far from the original specs, so it runs beautifully. Bathed in a bright coat of Chevy Orange, the engine doesn't show much use and even the experts won't find many nits to pick. It's got a stock air cleaner, stamped valve covers, and even tower hose clamps on the red stripe hoses, which is a nice touch. Power brakes are part of the package, making this Chevelle a pleasure to drive, and the steering feels lively at speed. It's backed by the aforementioned 4-speed and a 10-bolt rear end and a recent exhaust system with glasspack mufflers gives it a classic performance sound. Standard steel wheels with SS hubcaps are the ideal selection and wear 215/75/14 whitewall radials.

This is a nice car. Get in, turn the key, and start enjoying it immediately. The small block under the hood makes all the right sounds and it's quick enough to surprise more than a few newer muscle cars. The spacious interior is nicely preserved, and if you're the kind of guy who likes cruising with is buddies or has a family, it's hard to beat the intermediate-sized Malibu. Don't let this car get by; with a little TLC, this one could be amazing. Call today!