A 1979 Chevrolet Chevette probably isn’t the first car that comes to mind when someone mentions a hot rod, and that’s exactly what makes this one interesting. Listed on craigslist in Newberg for $5,500, this little rear-wheel-drive hatchback has traded its usual econobox formula for a modified Buick V6 and a five-speed manual transmission. The seller says it’s fun to drive, and the car has already attracted enough attention to have been featured by Jalopnik. Thanks for the tip, Barney!
The centerpiece of the build is a 231 cubic-inch odd-fire Buick V6 equipped with Kenne-Bell components. According to the seller, the engine also has a camshaft, roller rockers, and cast-aluminum valve covers. The listing doesn’t provide horsepower figures or further details about the engine build, so we’ll leave the performance numbers to the imagination rather than guessing. Behind the Buick engine is a T-5 five-speed manual transmission. The rear axle is described as a 10-bolt diesel differential, giving this Chevette a drivetrain combination that’s certainly far removed from what most people associate with Chevrolet’s small economy car.
Some recent maintenance is mentioned as well. The seller says the Chevette has new front brakes and a new set of 170/75R13 tires. Those 13-inch tires are a fun reminder of just how compact cars like this once were, even if what’s happening under the hood is considerably less ordinary. The seller describes the car itself as a clean and straight 1970s econobox. Craigslist lists its condition as good, and the car is being sold with a clean title. The odometer entry reads 123,456 miles, but the listing specifically notes that the odometer has rolled over, so that figure shouldn’t be interpreted as a verified total mileage.
Then there’s the sleeper aspect. The seller says the car has caught the attention of younger hot-hatch enthusiasts and claims it can surprise unsuspecting GTIs. That’s the seller talking, of course, but it’s easy to understand the appeal of putting an unexpected drivetrain into something as unassuming as a Chevette. This isn’t being presented as a restored original or some carefully preserved museum piece. Based on the description, the attraction is the unusual combination itself: a small 1979 Chevette hatchback, Buick odd-fire V6 power, a T-5 manual, and rear-wheel drive. It’s the kind of build that should at least start a conversation wherever it goes.
The seller also encourages interested buyers to come take it for a spin and says offers won’t be considered without genuine communication. At $5,500, it’s an unusual alternative for someone who wants a vintage hot rod without starting with the predictable platform.
This was listed on Barnfinds in may with a price of $5995. They’ve dropped the price $495.
Nice older Chevette with a v6 and a manual. Should have plenty of power for that car.
Wild Vette.
Paid about the same for a new ‘81 cheese. The stock brakes were too small on these and wore out quickly. Floor pans were prone to rust quickly.