After a successful launch in 1964, the new mid-size Chevy Chevelle received only light styling changes going into its sophomore year. As was the case with the senior car, the Impala, the Chevelle Malibu could be ordered as a Super Sport, with its bucket seats and special trim. This ’65 SS convertible is in beautiful condition and largely original, but the drivetrain has been rebuilt. Garage-kept for years, this Chevy can be found in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, and is available here on eBay where bids of $27,100 are still below the reserve set by the seller.
In 1965, Chevrolet would build more than 9,000 Chevelle Super Sport convertibles, of which 8,000 were equipped with a V8 engine (yep, the inline-6 was standard, just like with the Impala). The SS option was something of a bargain at $162 over the Malibu Sport Coupe or drop-top. Besides a console to go with the vinyl bucket seats, buyers would get special wheel covers that advertised the Super Sport upgrade. 1965 would be the model year when Chevy built 201 copies of the Z16 Malibu SS, with a hopped-up 396 cubic inch V8 engine, leading the way to the full SS 396 series that debuted for 1966.
The seller’s SS isn’t one of those elusive Z16s, but it’s a sweet ride, nonetheless. It’s a numbers-matching automobile with a 283 V8 and a Powerglide 2-speed automatic transmission, both of which were rebuilt about 10,000 miles ago. As a result, we told the car runs and drives perfectly and would easily handle a cross-country trip. We don’t know the aggregate mileage of the auto, but it may be enough to have warranted new suspension components, which it has.
“Restoration” is not a word used by the seller, but the Cypress Green paint with black interior and white top are “as it came from the factory.” According to the seller, you won’t find rust anywhere on this Chevrolet. We’re told the interior is original and it looks as good as new, although the carpeting may be a tad faded. The seller has added new Rally wheels all around, but the original wheels and SS wheel covers will come with the car. The radio has been upgraded, but the original AC/Delco radio will go with the deal.
Do I smell a hop up coming? My choice would be a 383 and a 4-speed
I actually had a 65 SS convertible, 327 4-speed in a lighter green with a white top and black interior back in the 90’s. I loved that car, but it was far from fast. I love this !
I had same car except white w/ black vinyl top, factory pw,a/c,327 powerglide. Bought it with a cracked engine block, paid $80.00 for it in1970. Wish l still had it!
While I am not a powerglide fan I would leave this car exactly as it is. I think its to nice to start making changes. What a great cruiser…
Not every car has to be modified, I agree, this looks too nice to start messing with it… and I’m an old hot rodder!