I could see where some naysayers might argue that there’s a reason the Cadillac hearse is sitting next to this Chevelle, possibly waiting to transport this one to its final resting place. However, while it’s true that this Chevy will require a total restoration, we’ve seen numerous autos this far gone and worse come back to life on a regular basis. With the desirability of the sixties and seventies examples still being high, I hope somebody with the right skills will see fit to take on this 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle here on eBay as a project. If you’re ready to get started, this one’s sitting in Morganfield, New Jersey, and comes with a price tag of $5,800. An option to submit an offer is also provided, and I have a hunch that perhaps the cost of this Chevelle might be negotiable.
This is one of those cases where it would be nice to find out where the car has been stored, as there’s a large amount of corrosion present, especially along the passenger side. One ray of hope is that at least one of the frame rails appears fairly solid, as long as the visible decay is confined to the surface. A few panels are also included, such as a pair of front fenders plus both doors, so that’s four fewer parts the next owner will have to locate. However, when it comes to the quarters and roof, you’re on your own.
Compared to the outside, some areas of the interior are in surprisingly decent condition, with the instrument cluster still looking pretty good overall. The front buckets don’t look all that bad either, but the rear seat is iced in what looks like some mud, so it’ll either need to be replaced or undergo a very thorough cleaning. I’m also thinking it would be much wiser to replace the entire floor, rather than trying to make patches here and there.
The only mechanical information we’re told is that there’s a small block under the hood attached to a Muncie M20, along with a 10-bolt rear end out back. The engine isn’t running, and with no clues given as to why, it’s unknown whether or not this block is worth fooling with. During the restoration process, maybe it’s time to consider yanking the powerplant and installing something entirely different. I’m seeing a busy and expensive winter season ahead for the buyer here, but with lots of effort, perhaps this one can be roadworthy again by spring. What do you think?
Maybe spring of ’29.
Humorous but accurate analogy about the hearse parked next to it. A good starting point for a project if someone HAS to have a ‘66 Chevelle to bring back from the dead but they’d better have a very serious budget.
Rust through from top to bottom. Looks like when Jim Bob blew the small block, they parked her under the trees, behind the outhouse.
Asking 6k, 20k in repairs, so your at 26 in the blink of a eye… I’m sure you could find a nicer project for 26k.
It’d be ok if it were just 20k in repairs, looking at pictures I see so much rust, who knows how much more is present. Jim bob should have done a better job taking care of this chevelle, it’s a shame. I’m not saying it’s toast, it’ll just take a lot to get it back on the road let alone make it near perfect.
If it was a mopar they’d be asking 25k, makes this seem like a bargain.
This is a body work fanatics deam. But in all seriousness it would be a a tuff project
My big question is the structural integrity of the roof. The sail panel on the passenger side is gone. I’m guessing a result of a vinyl top? You’d have to be careful moving the car so you don’t lost that back window. I agree with Mike. I think structurally you’re better off replacing the entire floor. But I’m sure there have been classic cars furthur gone than this one that been brought back. Small block and a 4 speed is a great all around combination. It’ll be interesting to see if it sells.
I’m sure there have. But not ho hum midsize cars. I see rust in places I’ve never seen rust before. I guarantee something blew in the engine. This was a street racer that died and was left to rot decades ago. the most valuable items are the spare parts.
New Jersey rust. Need I day more.
New username, and email, yet posts still disappearing… Interesting… Not.
Came back and refreshed page, and post was there… Weeeee… Never mind…?
The seller has 1,100 items listed with 20 sales over the last 90 days and has a 93% positive reviews. Everything on his site seems overpriced, why would a desirable car, such as a 1966 Chevelle 2dr hardtop be the exception?
Steve R
How desirable is this Chevy? At best it’s a parts car. The bucket seats and console may have some value along with the wheels. Beyond that there are just a few bits and pieces of much value. Practically every body panel needs to be replaced. Given the condition of the body there’s not much hope for the frame and floor. Open the passenger door and the car may fold in half. Strip it and call a hook.
According to the cowl tag it is a Malibu sub-model. The only option is the tinted windshield. The car was ‘fawn’ with a black vinyl top. It was delivered with a V8, likely a 195 HP 283 with a three-on-the-tree.
I noticed a lever in the engine compartment on the steering shaft and maybe a Prndl above the column in side the vehicle. Too much rust just salvage any part you can mostly little parts that are hard to find. I grew up in Newjersy and everything rusts bad if not taken care of properly
Thanks A.G. for saving me the time, was half tempted to run the info , but it doesn’t matter. There’s really nothing left except as you noted.
Are you sure it’s a Muncie 4 speed? I thought small block Chevelles got a Saginaw for it’s 4 speed.
Not sure about 66’s but my 64 has the original Muncie with the 283
With the 10 bolt should have 283 2barrel, original would be a Saginaw but most had a hard time lasting past 65K
I had a ‘66 same color but white interior with a 4 spd, 283, and 12 bolt. Mine had a muncie wide ratio. This car is too far gone. Looks like a drowning victim. That rust is sadly so pervasive that it just needs to be a parts donor to something else.
Probably had a 396 and someone removed the best part and installed a small block
Decent parts car.
For a fraction of the price. The money would be with the bucket seats and console, maybe the transmission, if it’s a Muncie. But the seats and console can’t have more than surface rust and not be broken or cracked. When I would part cars, I only one if I knew I could get all of my money back with a handful of valuable parts, then make the profit on all of the small $20-50 components. I don’t see that as a possibility with this car.
Steve R
i can’t see redoing it. this is a 50k redo said and done. good parts car
Nowadays, there’s a fine line between “restoration candidate” and foolishness. This is that line.
If it was an SS396 or 427 that was dragged through Yenko or Nickey Chevrolet’s special order books, maybe. Otherwise, part it out and junk it.
This is not a serious submission.
For you and I, yes. Remember though, “No lowballers I know what I have” is something of a standing joke on sites like this.