The second generation of the Chevy Chevelle (1968-72) was its most popular and positioned the make as the sales leader in the intermediate-sized field. The Malibu was the top trim level and made for a quite comfortable automobile to drive. While the seller advertises this car as a 1971 model, it is actually a 1969 edition. Few details of the car are provided other than it no longer has an engine or transmission, so the buyer is just getting a body and everything that goes with it. From Eagle Pass, Texas, this car is available here on eBay where the bidding has gotten to $3,050 with the reserve not met. However, the reserve can’t be much higher as there is a Buy It Now option of $5,000.
Beginning in 1962, Ford had success in introducing it’s own mid-size entry, the Fairlane, which previously had been Ford’s full-size mode. Chevrolet would follow suit two years later with its new Chevelle, which shared similar styling as the Impala/Bel Air/Biscayne, but in a smaller package. The 1968 redesign provided the Chevelle with a more streamlined look, which was refined with the 1969 edition. The Malibu two-door coupe like the seller’s car was very popular that year, selling about 275,00 copies when equipped with a V-8 engine. This primer grey ’69 has a 307 emblem on the front fender, so it would fall into that sales group.
The seller’s ’69 Malibu has come to rest under an open carport of some sort, so it’s exposed to the elements. It was likely dark blue at some point, but primer replaced that long ago. From what we can see of the body, it looks reasonably good and rust doesn’t look to be apparent. As no photos are provided under the hood, inside the trunk or of the interior, we can’t determine whether there isn’t more elsewhere, which would be important if you’re buying a car like this for parts or to put a motor in. The front bumper looks to be bent and one headlight is missing.
We’re told the seller’s plan was to put an LS-2 engine in the car, but that’s no longer the plan. So the buyer will have to source an engine and transmission to replace what likely was once a 307 V-8 with a Powerglide automatic. If this car had started life as an SS or with a big-block motor and a 4-speed, it could command big bucks in nice condition. But this car is none of those things. So, is it worth $5,000 as mostly a rolling shell? I’m betting our readers will say no.
LS swap, but with a twist: 6.2 LS3 with a 4.8 crank, Edelbrock cross ram intake, LS7 heads, backed by a T56 magnum. Keep the grey primer look but painted gray, Nascar look outside, comfy and road-trippable inside. Questions?
The front bumper and grille are 1968, rear tail lights 1969…yet advertised as a 1971?
That’s a 68 front clip on a 69 body. A thorough in person inspection would be wise.
Steve R
I agree 68 front clip… Could have been wrecked???
Ive heard of 71s and 72s being cloned into 70 ss cars but this is a first 69 to a 68 attempt. As this is unlikely the case, I too suspect a previous wreck. Bar any frame damage, and with Chevelle parts availability, that can be corrected with ease. For those interested, the original auction was ended early. It has been relisted. Here is the new ad…..https://www.ebay.com/itm/284027753347….
I was wonder. I thought it wss a 68 front end…thought I was losing it..
No title car, that’s a tough sell unless you plan om just racing it. The body does look good and most likely will be a parts car for someone.
According to the ad, the vehicle is driveable but has no engine or transmission. Must be some new technology I’m not aware of.
The replacement front clip means that it’s possible this was not a 307 car. The black trim between the taillights is curious, as Malibus had bright trim in that location. Could this be a forgotten SS?