Having just been introduced one year earlier, the Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu was already off to a strong start by 1965 and securing itself a good position in the Chevy mid-size line-up.  Production totals hit more than 150,000 for the car’s second year, but of that number fewer than 20,000 were droptops, making this ’65 convertible for sale here on Craigslist not exceedingly rare but far from a common sighting these days.  This one seems like a good driver as it sits or possibly a candidate to do something else with, so if you’ve been in the market for a mid-sixties Malibu this one’s probably worth checking out.  It’s residing in Simpsonville, South Carolina, with the asking price set at $16,700, and as always we’d like to thank reader PRA4SNW for sending us the tip here!

The seller says his Malibu has only had two owners and believes the 95k miles showing on the odometer are actual.  It’s said to have already had a restoration a while back, and although the seller doesn’t go into a lot of specific details about exactly what was redone he does say that the paint has a great patina and the car gets numerous compliments everywhere it’s driven.  We only get 3 full exterior shots of the convertible with no real close-ups, but the panels seem straight and all the trim appears to still be in good condition, plus those Chevy rally wheels look right at home on this body style.

An interesting change that’s been made inside is the front seat, which has an armrest in the center.  Both the front and rear seats have been custom sewn, and while they’re showing some wear I really like them both, but a correct front bench seat for the year is also included in the sale if the next owner wants to put it back to factory.  It’s not stated exactly what other kind of work has been done to the interior, but the dash area appears to be in really nice shape, as does the carpet, door panels, and even the sun visors are looking pretty spiffy for a convertible car.

The 283 under the hood is not the factory engine, but everything in the bay seems to be in good order and there’s a newer dual exhaust system in place down below.  I’m sure the 2-Barrel and Powerglide automatic probably operate pretty well and are dependable, but the owner suggests his Chevy is ripe for an LS swap or an SS tribute.  I’m kind of torn here, as the car’s a fun driver like it is now but definitely tempting to make something more rewarding out of it.  What would you do here?