For its third year in 1966, the Chevrolet Chevelle was treated to a styling update. The Malibu remained the top series and the only model offered as a convertible besides the SS 396. This ’66 Malibu drop-top has lived a rough life, which was capped off by a tree or something that came down in a storm. Located in a field in Tallahassee, Florida, this rough ragtop is described as being in “fair condition,” perhaps because it will run off a gas can. It’s available here on Facebook Marketplace for $3,500. Our thanks to Chuck Foster for another wayward tip!
By the mid-1960s, the U.S. automotive landscape was quite diversified. Before 1960, mostly full-size products were offered by the “Big 3”. They were then joined by compacts like the Ford Falcon and Chevy Corvair. Then the mid-sizes or intermediates arrived, and every GM division had one other than Cadillac. The Chevelle was the most successful of the GM quartet, while FOMOCO followed with the Fairlane and Montego (Mercury). Chevy sold more than 14,000 Malibu convertibles in 1966, of which more than 80% were equipped with a V8 engine.
This ’66 Chevelle looks like it was left out in the field to rot many years ago. It’s said to have a 305 cubic inch V8 under the hood, a motor that was more of a product of the 1980s, so an older transplant has no doubt taken place. We’re guessing this Malibu had a 283 or 327 when new. A 4-speed manual transmission is in place, but we don’t know if it’s original or a later addition, too. If you hook up a bottle of gasoline to the engine, we’re told the 305 will come to life (though the photos suggest otherwise).
The body, paint, top, and interior were probably in bad shape before a tree fell across the windshield during a storm (recently or a long time ago?). Lots of pieces are missing and those that are present look mostly unusable. The car does have a title, but at $3,500, this will be an expensive project to restore or use for parts for another Chevelle drop-top.
“Expensive project to restore” wise words from author Dixon.
This is no rag top; it’s a coupe with the roof removed. Buyer beware; tetanus shot recommend before looking at this one..
Bottom of the barrel, folks. I believe we’ve gotten to the point, this is all that’s left. Their idea of “fair” differs greatly from mine.
This is not even a viable parts car. You might be able to salvage a few parts, if you are lucky it has a Muncie, but I wouldn’t hold my breath. Even if you can get the 305 to run, it’s might be worth $100 to $200, at best. The $3,500 asking price is ridiculous.
Steve R