Fresh 454 V8 Muscle: 1980 Chevrolet Malibu

When General Motors redesigned and downsized its mid-size automobiles, the Chevrolet Chevelle dropped its main name. From 1978 forward, the intermediate was simply called a Malibu, the previous upgraded version of the Chevelle (that name had been around since 1964). The 1980 editions were little changed, and one thing that was no longer available was a big block V8. Instead of a likely 305, this car has a recently rebuilt 454, which has been bored out to 468 CI. Located in Orland Park, Illinois, this souped-up Chevy is available here on craigslist for $16,500.

The 1980 Malibu was hundreds of pounds lighter than the previous generation (1973-77), so smaller engines could get the job done and save gasoline. The 454 had been dropped a few years earlier, but the seller found one and had it reworked to produce at least 550 hp. So, once this Malibu gets out of the garage, it should be able to create quite a stir. All the photos are taken from inside said garage, so we assume the outside weather was inclement rather than the car being shy of sunlight.

Details regarding this vehicle are a bit slim, though the mechanical transformation may only have 1,000 miles on it. A TH-400 automatic transmission is part of the package, and it, too, has been rebuilt with a Stage 2 shift kit added with an 1,800-stall torque converter. The suspension fore and aft is new (to support the heavier V8?), and traction bars now reside out back. This car seems ready for action. Hi-Jacker air shocks were added to support the wider rear wheels and tires.

Considering how much must have been spent to convert this Chevy to a 454, the seller’s asking price sounds reasonable. We’re guessing the white paint has been reapplied, but much of the bench seat interior could be original and in good shape. If you want a turn-key street racer, could this Chevrolet fill the bill? BTW, thanks for the tip, Rocco B.!