It would be safe to assume that virtually every one of our loyal Barn Finds readers dream of the day they open their garage to find a desirable classic car staring back at them. For some, that dream will become a reality. However, others will find that their bank account and aspirations operate on different levels, and they will never fulfill the dream. That’s where vehicles like this 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu Convertible can fill the void. The owner has transformed the car into a driver-quality SS tribute with no immediate needs. Its mechanical specifications are mouthwatering, and it would take little work to lift its presentation to a higher level. Located in Hooper, Nebraska, you will find the Chevelle listed for sale here on eBay. It seems that people like what they see because an impressive forty-eight bids have pushed the price beyond the reserve to $35,800.

The history of this Convertible is unclear beyond what can be deciphered from the VIN, so it isn’t clear whether it rolled out of the factory wearing its current shade of Mulsanne Blue. The paint isn’t perfect, with a few obvious chips and defects. However, none of these are particularly bad, meaning the buyer could rectify them as time and circumstances allow. Existing rust seems confined to this spot in the lower passenger side door corner. The rest of the panels look clean, although the owner notes a couple of other small areas that may require attention in the future. This underside shot reveals some previous rust repairs, with the floors sporting several patches. The repair quality looks acceptable, and the Black undercoat should ensure no repeat performance. The White power top looks tired and has a few visible defects. If the buyer seeks spotless presentation, they will have no dramas locating a replacement for under $500. The chrome and trim look suitable for a driver-quality car, while the wide Rally wheels add a finishing touch befitting a muscular classic.

The VIN indicates that this Chevelle rolled off the production line equipped with a 350ci V8 that would have produced 165hp. That is now a distant memory because this elegant body is wrapped around a 400ci V8, a three-speed Turbo 400 automatic transmission, a 12-bolt rear end, power steering, and power front disc brakes. If this were a genuine SS, that big-block would churn out 240hp, which is enough to propel the Convertible through the ¼ mile in 15.8 seconds. However, it would be safe to assume that the output figure will have climbed significantly with an HEI ignition, a Holley 4-barrel carburetor, headers, and a dual exhaust. If things got serious, that would raise the tantalizing prospect of a sub-15-second ¼ mile ET. The engine bay presentation is pretty respectable, but this classic is about more than good looks. The car runs and drives perfectly, and with the seller undertaking some recent extended journeys with no problems, it is a turnkey classic awaiting a new owner.

One aspect of this Chevelle that will demand little attention is the interior. Equipped with bucket seats, the owner has recently undertaken a re-trim in White vinyl. This remains in excellent condition, with no wear or physical damage. The dash and pad appear spotless, and there’s no visible wear on the carpet. There are some dirty marks on the lower driver’s door trim, but with those cleaned and the carpet attacked with a vacuum cleaner, the buyer will be able to hold their head high with pride whenever they slip behind the wheel. The original owner ordered the car with air conditioning, but the compressor and a few other components are missing. The buyer may choose to reinstate the system, and if so, parts are readily available.

If this 1972 Chevelle Malibu Convertible were a genuine SS in its current state, it would command a market value of around $60,000. However, there’s no disputing that it is a clone, so its ultimate value will almost certainly be lower. Some purists will look down their noses at vehicles like this, although most people would fail to recognize its true nature unless told. While it may not be the real deal, it offers someone the opportunity to experience a pretty decent imitation at a fraction of the price. That’s why I think it will find a new home very quickly.