1968 Chevrolet Chevelle

Description

There's no question that buyers are getting a little burned out on clones, tributes, and outright fakes. That's why this tidy 1968 Chevelle Malibu convertible is so refreshing: it's not trying to be anything other than what it is. With a correct 307 cubic inch V8 under the hood, handsome factory look, and all its original trim bits, it's the poster car for truth in advertising.

Repainted in something close to Grotto Blue, this Malibu definitely looks the part of a '60s muscle car, albeit one with a hint of sophistication. The '68 models were extremely popular, both then and now, with tidy proportions and crisp detailing that will never go out of style. All the body panels appear to be OEM and quite straight, and as a car hailing from a warm climate, it looks sleek and clean with none of the issues you associate with rust belt cars. The paint job is older, but you can tell it was done to a high standard and today shows a soft gloss that fits the car quite well and shows only minor signs of use. All the original Malibu trim is intact, including the grille, bumpers, and the script 'Malibu' badges on the front fenders and the 'Chevelle' script on the trunk, none of which have been swapped out for reproduction SS gear. In fact, finding an actual Malibu is quite rare these days. Just look at the grille; when was the last time you saw one like that? Sometimes less is more and the Malibu has a fantastic look.

The factory bench seat interior has been reupholstered using a newer OEM-style blue vinyl seat covers on the seating surfaces, and thanks to original-looking stitching, it looks like it was built that way. Bucket seats are fine, but if you want a cruiser, maybe one that you can use with your significant other, well, bench seats are the hot setup. There are also correct door panels and carpets, so it has a factory look throughout, although that wood-rimmed steering wheel isn't stock but sure looks good! The factory gauges are surely original and a little faded, but on an easy-going car like this, it's no big deal and might be an easy upgrade somewhere down the line. Entertainment is provided by a newer AM/FM/cassette stereo system in the original location, and it looks like that black convertible top is recent because it fits great with few wrinkles. There's also a clean trunk with a full-sized spare, just in case.

You also get an honest V8 drivetrain with this Malibu, including a great-running 307 cubic inch V8 that's so right it still inhales through a 2-barrel carburetor. The air cleaner is the way it was originally, but some extra flash comes from the chrome valve covers that add just the right touch. The rest is basic black, so it has a low-key look but you can easily see how tidy things are and that there's plenty of recent maintenance. Power steering and power brakes are included, as is the Powerglide 2-speed automatic spinning a 10-bolt rear end. It exhales through a proper single exhaust system that gives it a muted personality and the floors are quite tidy for an original car. 17-inch American Racing wheels are a cool addition, and wear 225/60/17 performance radials.

If you're looking to go cruising this summer on a budget, here's a legitimate V8 A-body ragtop with a great look for not a lot of cash. Call today!