1965 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu

Description

You don't see many 1965 Chevrolet Malibus this straight and clean. Better yet, this one comes complete with a 350, laser-straight bodywork, and a comfortable black interior. Chevy positioned these as the cars that could do anything, and even today this handsome hardtop will draw a lot of admirers everywhere it goes.

A lot of these cars are running around with modern colors on them, but we're fans of the Butternut Yellow it wears. Perfect for the 1960s, it's low-key but contrasts nicely with the raked stance and oversized rolling stock. The paint job is a few years old but it's holding up well, offering a soft shine that's entirely appropriate on the yellow paint and good gaps throughout. There are a few blemishes, which isn't surprising, but absolutely nothing will stop you from getting in this car and hitting the local cruise nights. The low-profile looks of the Malibu have aged well, and this one has a timeless grace that will always be in fashion. Instead, this one exudes class and dignity, and with a muted rumble from its exhaust, looks every bit the part of a gentleman's express. There's minimal trim, although what is in place is in excellent condition, with nice chrome bumpers, a straight grille, and a set of Malibu SS badges on the quarters.

The black vinyl interior is the right choice with the bright yellow bodywork, presenting a clean, welcoming overall look. A bench seat makes this a big, comfortable car with room for everyone, and the seat upholstery is expertly restored with correct materials and patterns. New black carpets and fresh door panels look fantastic, giving the interior a finished feel that's very easy to live with. The original gauges are in very good shape, although they're monitoring only the basics of speed and fuel level, and they're surrounded by a bright instrument panel that shows none of the usual fading or discoloration. The original AM radio is gone, replaced by a later AM/FM/cassette setup and the massive trunk is quite tidy with spatter finish paint and a newer mat.

As a code 36 V8 Malibu, the 350 under the hood is a natural, although the original engine was probably a 283. Dressed like a late-model factory piece, there are no surprises here, just a great-running Chevy small block. The chrome air cleaner lives atop a Holley 4-barrel carburetor and intake manifold, there's an HEI ignition system to fire it, and a mild cam lives inside. A newer alternator, fresh plug wires, and long-tube headers ensure plenty of power without sacrificing its ability to be driven every day, and with power steering and brakes, it's easy to handle. A 2-speed PowerGlide automatic transmission shifts cleanly and delivers bulletproof reliability, while the 10-bolt rear end doesn't mind the horsepower. Take a moment to examine the floors, which are exceptionally nice with only a light dusting of black paint that hides nothing. A new Flowmaster exhaust system gives it a great V8 voice but doesn't betray this car's low-key demeanor. Four 16-inch chrome Rally wheels are a factory look with a modern twist, and the 225/55/16 Yokohama radials offer vastly improved handling.

Just a tidy, no-nonsense Malibu, albeit one with a great look. Forget the later A-bodies, this one has the right look and plenty of performance. Call today!